The 2016 Model Remodel Project showcases an aging two-story home with great bones located in suburban Chicago. The home, formerly owned by an elderly woman, has been vacant for at least seven years. 

The house features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a covered porch, and a freestanding garage in the backyard. Although it may not be much to look at now, there is more than enough potential for a completely refurbished, modern home that still honors its traditional past.

Front and center on this project is contractor Mike Spillane, founder of Spillane and Sons. Spillane plans on giving the house a complete overhaul and then selling it as part of a local program that helps working families obtain home ownership. All duct work, flooring, insulation, heating, and plumbing will be removed and replaced. New siding, windows, and electrical work will be installed. The entire garage will be rebuilt with a new foundation and woodwork.

At the same time, however, the goal of the project will be to maintain the general character and feel of the home. This will be accomplished by keeping the style consistent with what can be seen in the house right now, as well as preserving certain functional components of the house, such as interior doors.