Transforming a 100-year-old house into a warm home has been a labor of love for Jonathan Booth and Matthew Chambers.
By Megan Archer
HQ 126 | SUMMER 2024
On Sept. 17, 2017, Jonathan Booth and Matthew Chambers discovered a remarkable historic gem within the Huntington community. The couple stumbled across a listing for a nearly 100-year-old house and were instantly captivated. By that evening, their offer was accepted and the journey to restore the historic home began.
Their excitement grew as they uncovered the rich history of the residence.
“The house was originally owned by Leonard Cavendish and his wife Anna, founders of Cavendish Hardware, which later became Cavendish-Cyrus Hardware,” Jonathan explained. “Discovering that Leonard was the brother of the founder of Cavendish Mortuary, now Ferrell-Chambers Funeral Home — an establishment we owned — added a layer of personal significance to our new home.”
The house, an exquisite Georgian Colonial built in 1922 by Robert and Sidney Day, stands as a tribute to timeless beauty and architectural brilliance.
“The Days, a father-son duo, were renowned architects who also crafted the Marshall University President’s House and the west wing of the Cabell County Courthouse,” noted Matthew. “Mrs. Cavendish insisted on building the house on higher ground, inspired by the devastating 1913 flood.”
Luckily, her foresight preserved the home’s grandeur for generations. And years later, with his passion for interior decorating, Jonathan transformed the house into a true home.
This appreciation for the house’s charm is shared by those who visit and by the community which surrounds them.
“His unique-antique style infused each room with individuality and warmth reflecting our shared interests and personalities,” Matthew said. “From cherished family photos to carefully curated artwork and vintage mementos, every detail added a personal touch.”
The homeowners undertook several cosmetic renovations but avoided major overhauls. One of their largest projects was restoring the tile roof. Jonathan noted that this feature, uncommon in modern homes, adds unique character to the residence. Another standout feature is the butler’s pantry in the breakfast nook.
“Matthew is very handy, and he meticulously rebuilt it, honoring the original blueprints — which we still have — and restoring a sense of history and authenticity to the space,” Jonathan said.
With nearly 2,600 square feet and 13 rooms, their Georgian Colonial home, filled with antique treasures, exudes elegance and history. Symmetrical façades, a grand entrance and balanced proportions define its classic architectural style. Inside, antique furniture, vintage accessories, traditional artwork and crystal chandeliers create an atmosphere of perpetual charm. The presence of marble, bronze and porcelain figurines further enhances the home’s rich historical presence.
To Matthew and Jonathan, this house is not just a historical landmark, but a dream realized.
“The tranquil fog and crisp morning air at dusk are moments of pure peace enjoyed from our back patio,” Jonathan shared. “With its generous rooms, the house is perfectly sized for two — perhaps three. Every corner is filled with warm memories, transforming the space into a true home.”
Living there has been a labor of love for the owners. Last year, the home was one of seven selected for Huntington’s annual Holiday House Tour. Jonathan said he has always loved Christmas, and being able to showcase their beautiful home to fellow architecture-lovers was a true treat.
“People enjoy visiting not only to see the holiday decorations but also to appreciate historic houses,” he said. “Personally, I love to see the detailed architecture and floor plans. It’s not just about Christmas; it’s about showcasing the beauty of the house and honoring its historical significance.”
The couple’s enthusiasm for showcasing the home’s architectural beauty extends beyond the festive season. This appreciation for the house’s charm is shared by those who visit and by the community which surrounds them.
“Despite being just a few minutes from downtown, the house offers a peaceful retreat,” Matthew said. “Simple landscaping, colorful flowers and the soothing sound of water from our small koi pond enhance the serenity.”
Jonathan added, “Our neighbors are like extended family; we watch over each other’s homes and work together to keep our neighborhood pristine.”
Both agreed the sense of community found in Huntington is invaluable and adds to the feeling that they picked the perfect home.
“A house becomes a home through love, warmth and personal touches,” Jonathan reflected. “It’s the people who live in it and the memories created within its walls that truly make it feel like home.”
Their journey with this historic home has been filled with much joy and a profound sense of belonging — a testament to the idea that home is where the heart is.
