From Abandoned to Inspired: A Historic McKinney Home Tour
You asked for another home tour—and we delivered. But this one came with a twist: we crashed an open house. Yes, really. And what we discovered was more than a beautifully restored historic home in McKinney, Texas. We found a story of passion, perseverance, and vision that encouraged us deeply as we pursue our own mission to restore and reimagine Downtown Rowlett.
This tour was different. And today, we’re excited to take you behind the scenes—not just of a dreamy home, but of a movement. It really was just the inspiration we need.
The Home That Was Almost Lost
This McKinney home sat abandoned for over 50 years—its roof caved in, windows boarded up, and foundations cracked. Most people saw a teardown.
But not Mallori.
At just 24, she found the family who owned the property and spent weeks convincing them to sell. She bought it sight unseen and stepped inside for the first time after closing—a true leap of faith. With the help of her parents, she immediately started peeling back boards and began a journey that would span years of sweat, sourcing, and soulful restoration. This story reminded us so much of our story of the Cotton Gin which also sat vacant for 50 years!
Restoring History with Heart
From the original brick fireplace to restored wood windows and custom replicas, Mallori didn’t cut corners. She honored the house’s past while introducing modern comforts and thoughtful updates—like a stunning kitchen with quartzite countertops, unlacquered brass fixtures, and the unforgettable checkered sink.
Her powder bath? A moody mix of zellige tile, marble, and wallpaper.
Her living room? A perfect balance of vintage and modern.
Her primary suite? Vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and a dreamy dressing room.
Even the butler’s pantry and laundry room were works of art.
Every detail told a story—and every decision was intentional.
Want the Look?
Here are lookalike product links from the home tour soon (the exact sources weren’t provided by the homeowner, but we’ve curated some fabulous finds to help you recreate the look!). Mallori did an amazing job at mixing old and new so some things you’ll have to treasure hunt over time, but if you’re inspired by this look it’s worth the time!
Note – one of my favorite things in the home was the checkered sink. It was a challenge to find. Here I linked a sink from Etsy but it’s a top-mount sink vs an undermount like Malori has installed. This company has one that looks super close, but you’ll have to contact them to order.
What This Tour Inspired In Us
We’ve done countless home tours in McKinney: The Bingham Estate, Kathy from My Favorite Room’s Home, TMKF Home, The Tulip House, My Mckinney Farmhouse, Thistlewood, and MORE… And like all of them, this one was a reminder. A reminder that restoration is worth it. That community matters. That dreaming big is the first step toward revival.
McKinney wasn’t always the thriving destination it is now. Someone had to be the first to believe in the possibilities. Just like Rowlett isn’t yet what it’s meant to be—but we believe it can be.
So What’s Next?
We’re dreaming big—and taking action.
The FHL & Friends Pop Up Shop
We’ve opened our warehouse at 3902 Industrial Street to host seasonal home décor sale. This serves several purposes:
- To meet you! We love connecting in person.
- To offer you beautiful, curated pieces from our design inventory.
- To build something bigger. We want to prove to the city that people crave meaningful experiences—unique finds, community, design inspiration—and that Rowlett can be that place.
People have traveled from Fort Worth, Houston, Oklahoma, and beyond to shop our last sales. And the more support we get, the easier it is to show our city that vision, beauty, and small business can transform a community. Our next Sale is Sept 19 and 20. To stay up to date sign up for our email newsletter on our warehouse page here.
Step Two: Serving the Struggling
While we work toward a more vibrant downtown, we’re also working behind the scenes to support those struggling with homelessness and addiction in our city.
As the last stop on the DART rail, Rowlett has a unique challenge. We’ve had honest conversations with our city council, the mayor, police chief, and even DART executives. We’re advocating for compassionate partnerships with organizations that can offer real help to those in need.
We’re not perfect. We don’t have all the answers. But we’re committed to being part of the solution—because restoration isn’t just about buildings, it’s about people. If you know an effective organization or have tips send them our way. I’ve already got FABULOUS comments with ideas on the YouTube video and I just want to thank you so much for the support.
A City-Wide Revival Starts Small
We’ve documented the setup of our upcoming warehouse sale, so if you can’t join in person, you can still follow along online for inspiration.
Your support matters. Here’s how you can help:
- Pray – for our city, our mission, and the lives we hope to impact.
- Shop – our warehouse sales and support local makers and vintage lovers.
- Engage – comment, share, like, subscribe, and tell others what we’re building.
- Spread the word – the more the city sees support, the faster the momentum grows.
A Few Final Favorites
If you’re in the McKinney area:
- Visit Patina Green Home & Market (owned by Mallori’s family!)
- Stop by Ambrosia for gorgeous home accessories
- Grab lunch at Local Yocal—you’ll thank us later
And while you’re at it, make a day of it.
Start in Rowlett, head to McKinney, and hit all the best vintage spots across the metroplex. We’re even putting together a DFW shopping list—let us know if you’d like it emailed or printable!
Let’s Dream Together
Restoration isn’t just for buildings—it’s for neighborhoods, for cities, and for hearts. We’re so grateful to share this tour and our own journey with you. Whether you’re decorating a home or believing for a better future in your town, we hope this inspired you to keep going.
XO,
Shelby & Michelle
