In a remarkable stroke of luck, a determined couple undertaking a colossal DIY renovation of their centuries-old home have uncovered a stunning historical feature concealed for decades.
The Ambitious DIY Project
Olivia and Jack Munro purchased the nearly 400-year-old property in 2023 with a clear vision: to return it to its former glory. Faced with a daunting professional quote of £200,000 for the restoration work, they made the bold decision to tackle the entire project themselves. For two years, they have been diligently working through the house, room by room, sharing their progress with over 21,700 followers on TikTok under the handle @lifeatmoathouse.
The 'Jackpot' Discovery Behind the Walls
The couple's most astonishing find to date came as they prepared to re-plaster a bedroom. After stripping back the walls and removing a more modern fireplace, the outline of something far older began to emerge. "We spotted the beam and another beam there and we could sort of see the shape of what would have been a really old inglenook fireplace," Olivia explained in a video update.
She estimated that the original feature, perfectly in keeping with the home's age, had likely been blocked up since the 1950s or even earlier. Committed to reinstating all original aspects of the property, the pair carefully excavated the area, revealing the full historic structure.
Breathing New Life into Ancient Features
The meticulous restoration process involved fitting a replacement beam, having the original timber and bricks professionally sandblasted, and installing a new limecrete floor. They also fitted breathable insulation and comprehensive heating systems to ensure the ancient lounge was both authentic and comfortable for modern living.
Now, the magnificent inglenook fireplace stands as a centrepiece—a testament to the home's long history and the couple's dedication. "This is what it looks like now," Olivia proudly showcased, revealing the transformed space.
With 13 rooms still awaiting restoration, the Munros' ambitious journey is far from over. Their social media followers were quick to celebrate the incredible find. One admirer commented, "Looks fabulous, great work uncovering the old features," while another wrote, "If only every old house had owners with your mindset." The sentiment of hitting the 'jackpot' was echoed by a third follower who confessed, "My ultimate dream is to have an inglenook. What a jackpot find!"
