PENDLETON, Ind. —
Turning tragedy into triumph, Jim and Jane Coyle threw themselves into the project of building a new home after the death of their college-aged son.
In dire need of something to occupy their thoughts and hands, they created a beautiful space to enjoy and share.
“People advised us against making a big move like that during a time of grief,” said Jim, a senior account executive for Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA). “But it turned out to be the best thing we could have done.”
“Building this house probably saved our lives,” agreed Jane, retired from 28 years as the athletic secretary for Pendleton Heights High School. “It occupied our time and minds. It got us through a lot.”
Having built a log cabin in Green Township 10 years prior, the couple was accustomed to seclusion. After suffering their loss, they sought out neighbors.
“We loved the log cabin, but we wanted to be in a neighborhood and have that community feel,” added Jane. “We were a bit isolated.”
Little house on prairie
Choosing the style of a county farmhouse for the exterior aesthetic appeal, the Coyles have a home that stands out among the others on Red Fox Road. The stark white siding accented by forest green trim provides a throwback look that is updated by the beautiful custom windows which allow the chandelier to be viewed from the street.
“When we first built (in 1995) there were only two houses past us on this street,” said Jim, a former teacher in Muncie, assistant principal at East Elementary and assistant superintendent.
“We kind of looked like ‘Little House on the Prairie’,” added Jane with a laugh.
Choosing this exterior also created visual harmony for guests as they enter to view a host of family antiques.
Rather than try to stash antiquated furnishings in an ultra-modern setting, Jim and Jane have the perfect venue for their unique treasures.
The master bedroom is the home of an exquisitely aged dry sink, china cabinet, and dresser. Filling the cabinet to the brim are quilts hand made by Jane’s grandmother, mother, and aunt.
A special spot in the master bathroom is reserved for a stained glass window that was saved from the trash truck by Jane’s father many years ago.
When the Methodist church in Fairmount that she attended as a child was updating their building, her father spotted the window inscribed with “Choir of 1909” by the curb.
Asking if he could snatch it from its fate as rubbish, he placed the artwork in his home and later passed it to Jane.
Second floor for family
While some of the special touches come from family, others have been picked up at an architectural salvage company in Indianapolis.
The finds may be spotted on walls or sitting atop cabinets.
“Sometimes we just see something and know that it will fit with the look we are going for,” said Jane.
By mixing white accents and oak cabinetry, Jane creates a cottage style that reaches throughout the home.
When remodeling the kitchen, she and Jim had difficulty convincing their custom cabinetmaker to share their vision. Accustomed to settling on one finish, he was unsure the finished product would be pleasing.
“Once he was done, though, he finally said that he really liked the way it turned out,” said Jim.
Most of the time, the couple occupy the first floor.
However, the second floor is always waiting for the company of their son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Jobi. With the first grandchild on the way, a crib is already erected to make the baby feel at home.
“We are so excited,” said Jane.
Each week, Emma Bowen Meyer features a Madison County home. If you know of a home that should be showcased, send an e-mail to emmagoldiemeyer @yahoo.com.
Community
Related Photos
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Jim and Jane Coyle built this home in Pendleton in 1995. For The Herald Bulletin
Discussion
Home a needed retreat
Coyles’ building project turns their tragedy to triumph
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