96-Year-Old Woman Selling Home Hasn't Redecorated in 72 Years, Like a Blast from Past
Who doesn’t love a good remodel? Though HGTV’s popular show, Fixer Upper, ended with its fifth season in the spring, that hasn’t stopped fans from watching reruns or buying Joanna Gaines‘ newest book.
There’s just something about watching something old be made into something fresh and new. Flip or Flop couple Christina and Tarek El Moussa may have split, but viewers can look forward to an all-new spinoff series, Christina on the Coast, which premieres in 2019.
Some might claim newer is better, but there are those who prefer vintage to modern, or rustic to chic.
Take a 96-year-old woman from Toronto, Canada, for example. She lived in the same brick home for 72 years — and she hardly changed a thing.
At the age of 24, the seamstress moved into the plain-looking house in Bloor West Village, West Toronto during World War II.
The 1940s home was only ever updated in 1965. The owner decorated it herself using 1950s and 60s decor.
Since then, the house remained unaltered. Not only that, it was well-kept. When it was listed for $699,000 in 2014, people could not believe what waited inside.
The interior was like something from an era museum with its vintage wallpaper and pastel colors. Even the kitchen boasted an antique, but working, stove.
Gladys and Carla Spizzirri of Keller Williams Neighbourhood Realty listed the home as the owner planned to move to a retirement community.
HGTV Canada also took interest in the home at the time. Elana Safronsky from HGTV said, “The home is in pristine condition, having been lovingly maintained for 72 years by the homeowner and her family.”
Every room provides a sense of nostalgia, taking you back to a simpler time. “I like soft colors, and I like things to match and flow well together. I prefer tone-on-tone to bright colors,” the owner at the time shared.
Her favorite space was the gold and pink guest room, though I’m inclined to favor the sweet kitchen nook complete with rose wallpaper and booth seating.
“I’ve always tried to be individual, and follow my own style,” the owner said. Though times may have changed, and many are motivated to update their living spaces, the elderly woman was obviously not swayed by modern styles.
This just goes to show that every home deserves a chance. Don’t judge a house by its cover. After all, there might be a vintage treasure waiting inside.
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