Early 2020, we started (re)building our home from ground up! Wow, it has been more than a year since then. It was just like yesterday when we were planning everything, slowly going through the process of conceptualizing, designing, then later demolition and construction. I honestly did not thought that we will be making any major changes in our home then, let alone build a house!
I know you might be wondering why I initially said rebuild. It is because this exact spot is where our home was for the past 14 years. There were thoughts here and there on whether to move, go to a different city, find a new house, but eventually, with all things being considered, we decided to stay where we are and just renovate.
Renovate? Yes, initially (again), our plan was just to renovate, make some improvements and just maybe add a bit more space, but you see, God’s plans are always bigger and better. He lead us eventually into making a new one for the family. Why so, you might ask? Well, when we applied for a building permit, we were told that our current structure would not be strong enough to hold any additional floors. We are in a duplex-type home, thus, the only way for us to add more space is just to build vertically.
So last year, we packed our stuff, moved out temporarily, and had our old structure demolished and started constructing from ground up. We only planned for so much, but God led us to a different direction.
Speaking of planning, aside from making this structure a home for our family, our goal is also to make it as comfortable and adaptable for our youngest son, Hendrix, given his different abilities. We had to incorporate as much open spaces as possible for him to be able to freely navigate around the house in whatever aide he will use eventually. I guess this what makes our home building a bit different. We tried to take it from both our sons’ point of views, as they have and will have different sets of needs for a home as they grow up. It was challenging, yet fun at the same time.
These photos were taken the week of Christmas last year. Around that time, our house is like a gift we had to be patient before we can open. It seems so far off then with just these structures around. Right now, everything’s been hectic, busy and detailed as we are nearing our moving in date. They say it is the most frustrating part of home building, well i say it definitely is. but it I know it will be the most rewarding.
When I look at these photos, I am reminded of two things; (1) that God’s timing is always perfect, and (2) good things come to those who pray and wait.