A Tennessee father’s unconventional purchase of an abandoned school has paid off, as he has transformed the dilapidated building into a stunning family home. Jason Collis acquired the former Ducktown School in 2021 and set about restoring it to its former glory. As a high school senior, Sarah Collis debuted her family’s regal residence in a viral TikTok post on April 17, which has garnered over 27 million views. In the 19-second clip, Sarah provides a glimpse inside the worn-down building, showcasing old-fashioned school hallways, flickering lights, exposed brick walls, and chipped paint. Follow-up posts showcase the transformation of the school turned home, including the deteriorated auditorium that turned into a modern living space, the spooky exterior which now has a refined façade, and a former classroom that became Sarah’s bedroom. Sarah’s spacious bedroom boasts fresh beige and teal paint, new wood floors, four large windows without curtains, and lounge areas for watching TV, studying, or relaxing. The building, which was designed by architect Reuben H. Hunt in 1933, features a renovated auditorium, gymnasium, cafeteria, playground, kitchen, and a boiler room – all preserved with the same haunting energy as the day they moved in. While much of the school has been fixed up, some parts still retain their original appearance, adding to the building’s unique charm. The Collis family generously shares the facility with the community, hosting festivals, concerts, after-school club meetings, class reunions, and team practices in the gym or room rentals inside the historic building. Whenever the community hosts festivals, they use the school cafeteria for catering and food services. The family maintains certain areas for private use, such as a kitchen for personal meals and surveillance cameras for security. Sarah’s TikTok followers were astonished and intrigued by her family’s bizarre living situation, with many expressing amazement at the transformation and curiosity about the property tax. The family’s unique living space serves as a testament to their creativity and their commitment to preserving the town’s history.
Abandoned School Transformed into Dream Home
