A 19th-century schoolhouse that this couple purchased for $210,000 has now become their family home—see the inside.

Danielle and Kreg Jones, a couple who have a history of renovating homes together and run their own New Hampshire-based architecture firm, Inscription Architects, decided in 2020 to take on a project with their son, who had just graduated high school, while he still lived at home.

Danielle tells CNBC Make It that she wanted her son to learn how to build and fix things in a house, just like Kreg did with his mom.

In 2016, the couple moved from Montana to New Hampshire to downsize. It took them almost five years to find a permanent home in the state. The Jones' had their attempt to buy a house fall through on five different occasions.

They discovered a 19th-century schoolhouse in Weare, a small town near the state capital.

The North Weare Schoolhouse, constructed in 1856, served as a public school until 1952 and later as a town meeting place until the 1980s. In 1995, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Danielle and Kreg purchased an abandoned schoolhouse in March 2021 for $210,000. The couple had been eyeing the property for 15 years as a commercial listing, but it was only recently changed to a residential one. They toured the property in February 2021 and put in an offer the next day, which was accepted.

"Kreg says, "We love old historic buildings. We saw a lot of opportunity to do something with the huge volume inside, and the foundation was in great shape.""

The building's architectural perfection is attributed to its proportional design, with 14 to 21 foot ceilings and large windows.

Despite its size, she finds it comfortable. The design is classically proportioned and symmetrical, giving it a cozy feel. She describes it as a pleasant space to occupy.

The schoolhouse was transformed into a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom home by the Jones' who spent $220,000 and eight months on the project.

This project was particularly special because they were joined by their son.

Kreg emphasizes that the crucial aspect was to spend time with our son and do so together to teach and train him, as at that time, he was not prepared to move on to something else after high school.

The family ensured that the renovation of the property remained faithful to its historical character by retaining the original floors, ceiling, chalk rails, stairway, doors, storm windows, and a wall from the early 1900s that bore the names of schoolchildren carved into it.

Danielle adds, "We wanted to add some color and liveliness to it while still maintaining a respectful design."

Danielle, who has lived in the converted schoolhouse with her partner for over three years, still appreciates the amount of natural light that enters the space.

"Before electricity, these buildings had large windows to allow for natural light. The living room is always bright, as if it's daytime, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions."

Kreg remarks, "Living in a self-rebuilt place is just fun."

Danielle has discovered that in order to succeed in this project, one must embrace the willingness to attempt something novel and distinct, regardless of others' opinions.

She suggests trying something because not many things are truly irreversible.

The couple doesn't feel the same sense of urgency to move on to their next project after living in a house for a couple of years.

Kreg says, "We've been married 27 years and have lived in the same house for four years. For the first time, we're not feeling restless and are content to stay put. This may be our record house, even if it's not our forever one."

"We don't anticipate the next project coming, but they just seem to come to us, so we don't have any plans for a new project yet, but we'll see what happens," Danielle said.

Sign up for CNBC's online course to master your money this fall. Our practical strategies will help you hack your budget, reduce your debt, and grow your wealth. Start today to feel more confident and successful. Use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% introductory discount, extended through September 30, 2024, for the back-to-school season.

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive expert advice on work, money, and life.