I
n a stunning display of creativity and determination, a Tennessee couple transformed an ordinary shed into a breathtaking two-story lake house that would make even the most seasoned HGTV enthusiasts green with envy. The jaw-dropping renovation, which has garnered over 8 million views on TikTok, began when Dawn Cook, a grandmother with a keen eye for design, stumbled upon the 18-by-36-by-21-foot shed in a Home Depot parking lot.
Cook's husband, Richard, was equally enthusiastic about the project, and together they saw an opportunity to turn the plain shed into something truly special. With their combined skills – Cook's flair for design and Richard's building expertise – they set out to create a unique home that would blend farmhouse and beach house styles.
The couple's vision came to life as they added two balconies, a full kitchen with a gas range and sunken island, laundry closet, and large patio. The interior features tongue and groove ceilings, shiplap walls, and vintage decor pieces from Lowe's and Home Depot. Even the whimsical touches, such as a fish sink in one bathroom and a video arcade game in the kitchen, were carefully curated to create a one-of-a-kind space.
The renovation process was not without its challenges, however. The couple had to hire professionals for certain aspects of the project, including the crawl space foundation, electric, plumbing, and spray foam insulation. Despite these setbacks, they persevered, and their hard work paid off when the "shome" (a combination of "shed" and "home") was sold for a tidy profit.
The couple's lake house received numerous offers and was eventually sold over the asking price at $460,000. While Cook feels that the home could have fetched an extra $100,000 if they had waited six months, she is thrilled with the outcome. The buyer, who later resold the property for $505,000, must have agreed, as the sale was a testament to the couple's exceptional taste and renovation skills.
As for Cook, she has no plans to turn her shed-renovation expertise into a full-time career – at least not yet. However, her daughter Amanda is convinced that her mom would be perfect for a TV show, and who knows? Maybe someday we'll see Dawn Cook's incredible creations on the small screen.
