The Neighbour Barn Remodel: How Ezra Converted a 1915 Wine Barn into a Home
At Neighbour, we believe any space can be transformed to reflect both function and dreams. Almost a year ago, I decided to put that belief to the test by converting an historic, dilapidated barn deep in the Texas Hill Country into my home. Built back in 1915 to store barrels of wine, the barn likely hadn’t been touched since. As someone who comes from a long line of craftsmen, the challenge felt like a natural fit—an opportunity to honor the past while making something truly personal. This is Part 1 of how I’m bringing this space back to life.
Working with the Space: Transforming the Barn's Original Structure
The barn’s original purpose was simple—to protect wine barrels from the elements. The construction was bare bones, rugged, and practical. My goal was to honor its rustic, functional origins instead of forcing it into something it wasn’t meant to be.
One of the first and most important steps was insulation. I lined the walls with cedar fence posts and applied a salt compote to achieve a weathered look that seamlessly matched the barn’s original character. This approach respected the structure’s heritage while enhancing its comfort and livability.
Rustic Interior Décor and Handmade Details
The details are where the magic happens. I’ve always been drawn to pieces with history, and the decor in my home reflects that.
Handcrafted Coffee Table: I built a one-of-a-kind coffee table that speaks to my love for repurposing local materials and gathering unique pieces during my travels. The tabletop came from a slate I found in France, while the sawhorse base was made from Longleaf pine salvaged from an old barn in downtown Fredericksburg.
French Crucible: I added one of Neighbour’s French Foundry Crucibles to the table—a piece that perfectly complements the barn’s industrial aesthetic. Its early 20th-century origins align with the barn’s own history, yet it brings a touch of international character to the space.
Teardrop Pendant: The barn’s tall ceilings, once stacked high with wine barrels, were the perfect space for the Canvas Teardrop Pendant Light. The canvas added a softer, warmer touch to the otherwise rugged space.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll dive deeper into my decor choices and the unique challenges that came with transforming this barn into a home.
-Ezra
