Gwen and Jerry Schroder grew up New Albany, but their careers took them away for 25 years. Since their retirement, they were on a quest to find a home that would allow the couple to be closer to family.

In December of 2015, they purchased a bungalow style home that had the craftsman appeal they were seeking. While some TLC was in order, Gwen and Jerry were eager to transform their home with lots of personal touches.

The architectural details alone drew them in, but with the help of some qualified professionals, they conquered their one must-have – honoring the historical integrity of the home.

Table of Contents

AN HOMAGE TO HISTORY

Redefining the space in the kitchen was a priority in order to make it more functional. Jerry, who dabbles in woodworking, creatively used a butcher block counter – formerly in his workshop – as the top to a built-in hutch that finds a home next to a Hoosier cabinet with art deco detail. Butter cream cabinetry, enhanced with black hardware, warms the room. The decorative tile backsplash complements the granite counters. The farmer’s sink is a strong reminder of the farm they previously owned. A moveable island features a green base with drawers and cabinets, providing additional storage kitchen goods. Accent chairs embrace a round table ideal for informal meals. Patterned Roman shades dress the windows while oak floors with a cherry finish anchor the room.

STAINED GLASS TOUCH

Arts and craft style bedside chests with matching lamps flank the bed adorned with plush linens in the master bedroom. The walls are lined with items that honor the home and carry the legacy of family; Displayed in frames hang a vintage purse from the 1920s that pays homage to the era when their home was built and a money purse that belonged to Jerry’s grandfather, who sold vegetables in New Albany. Stylish accent chairs flank a table providing a cozy sitting area. Colorful stained glass resides above the bed.

nuts & bolts

Homeowners: Gwen and Jerry Schroder. Both Gwen and Jerry are retired. They share their home with canine companions, Cassie and Tuffy.

Home: This dormer front bungalow was built in 1915 for wholesale cigar and tobacco broker Gustav Kiel Jr. and his wife, Ruby. This is a four-bed, two-bath home in New Albany. This will be one of 11 homes on the New Albany Historic Home Tour.

Applause! Applause! Gwen and Jerry were pleased with the work done by Troy Russell of Russell’s Remodeling; Roy Finley of Kitchen and Bath Showcase; Donna Baldacci of Stained Glass Gallery who designed and built the custom stained glass window in the dining room along with her husband, Kurt Baldacci, who installed it; Motawi Tileworks for the handmade tiles in the bathroom; Bluegrass Garage Builders; and Amanda Grinnan of Louisville Tile.