2008 Reader Remodel Contest Winner: Texas Queen Anne

When Sharon got a look at the old place, she oohed and ahhed over the ornate carving on the front gable and the clustered, fluted columns supporting its wraparound porch. It was practically gift-wrapped for her, with a banner hung on an outbuilding advertising a house mover available to relocate it. While Sharon peeked in through the grimy windows, I rationalized taking the leap. For the money we'd spend building a new log cabin, we could park this house intact on our scenic spot, and get some real lakeside charm in the process.