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Reimagining Our Lives: How We Turned A Fire Station Into Our Dream Home

Update From Fire Station to Family Haven: A Dream Realized Imagine turning a space once dedicated to fighting fires into the heart of a family home. Steven and Ashley Evans lived this incredible transformation after purchasing an abandoned fire station in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A childhood dream became reality when they took the leap in 2016, acquiring the property for a mere $90,000. This former firehouse, first built in 1960 and converted into a residential space in the 1980s, seemed like a risky investment initially but has blossomed into a cherished home for the couple and their children. Finding Value in History What sparked the Evans' interest in the fire station wasn’t just its solid concrete and steel bones but the emotional connection they had to the location. Having grown up nearby, the couple had always envisioned what it might be like to live in a place they frequently drove past in their youth. Even though the fire station had been abandoned for years, with walls stripped bare and covered in mold, it represented more than a purchase; it was a dream waiting for restoration. The Realities of Renovation Upon acquiring the fire station, the Evans faced the daunting task of transforming it from a rundown building into a cozy home. In fact, the challenges were numerous: no working electricity, dismal sanitary conditions, and the heavy financial burden of renovation loomed large. They initially planned to renovate it for resale, aiming for a budget of $80,000. Stepping in with creativity and resourcefulness, Steven tackled much of the work himself, with Ashley and her parents contributing as well. Their initiative to salvage materials and seek budget-friendly solutions, such as using clearance items and giving old fixtures a fresh coat of paint, was instrumental. The final expenses included a new roof ($22,000) and kitchen addition ($10,000), among others. Little by little, they resurrected an iconic structure, while still paying homage to its history by retaining features like the hose tower and old garage doors. Creating the Ultimate Family Space Today, the Evans' fire station is not just a house but a hub of childhood memories. They’ve transformed parts of the expansive property into an indoor soccer field, a theater room, and a play area, all designed to ignite the imaginations of their children. The family even bought an old fire truck to serve as a fun plaything for the kids in the backyard. These thoughtful enhancements celebrate both their family's legacy and the building's history. What’s Next? Future Plans As of 2024, the couple refaced the original loan into a mortgage, and they’ve successfully maintained the home despite evolving financial commitments. Their monthly expenses now hover around $3,190, but that hasn't deterred them from creating a life filled with joy in a place that seemed destined for abandonment. Any thoughts of leaving the beloved firehouse for another home are met with staunch resistance—this is where their roots are firmly planted. Final Thoughts: A Home Full of Memories The Evans' experience reveals the potential of unconventional homes that carry their own history. Their story stands as a testament to the idea that thriving in life sometimes requires stepping beyond the conventional choices. A fire station may not seem like an obvious dream home, but for Steven and Ashley, it embodies years of hard work, creativity, and love for their family. Whether it's in the bathroom budgets or the indoor soccer field, their home is a canvas painted with the essence of who they are—bold dreamers, resilient builders, and loving parents. The journey to turning a fire station into a family home inspires many to re-evaluate their potential living spaces, inviting exploration beyond standard real estate options.