Rebecca Rudolph and Colin Thompson have proven that when it comes to meeting evolving space needs, you don’t always have to move – you can change your home instead. The couple’s story began in 2000 when they purchased a rundown 500-square-foot house in Atwater Village, Los Angeles, for $137,500. Despite having limited funds, they decided to renovate the house themselves, gutting it down to the studs and starting fresh on a shoestring budget.
Over the years, as their family grew, so did their home. They added a 650-square-foot addition for a second bedroom, bathroom, and living room when their first child was born. When their second son arrived, they custom-built a bed for the boys to share a room. Eventually, they replaced the original house with a new two-story, 1,200-square-foot structure, with Mr. Thompson taking on much of the construction work himself.
The couple’s DIY spirit didn’t stop there – they continued to make improvements, including adding a pool and working on the landscape. Despite considering adding another room for their kids, they ultimately decided against it and are now content with their home as it is.
Their story serves as a testament to the idea that with creativity, determination, and a willingness to put in the work, you can transform your home to meet your changing needs without having to go through the hassle of moving.
