Hidden Histories: What Home Renovations Reveal About the Past – and Future
A Rhode Island couple, Tommi Cullen and Jared Tirocchi, recently unearthed a piece of the past while renovating their bathroom. Behind a section of wall, they discovered a dollar bill and a handwritten note dated September 5, 2008, left by someone named Billy, joking about his last wallpapering job for a “Pat.” This discovery, shared on TikTok, quickly went viral, highlighting a growing trend: home renovations as accidental archaeology.
The Rise of “Renovation Revelations”
The Cullens’ experience isn’t isolated. In 2024, another couple found a hidden bathroom during a renovation, and in 2025, a homeowner uncovered a concealed door. These “renovation revelations” are becoming increasingly common as more homeowners undertake renovation projects. According to the 2025 U.S. Houzz & Home Renovation Trends report, 54 percent of U.S. Homeowners undertook a renovation project in 2024.
More Than Just Nostalgia: The Emotional Connection
What makes these discoveries so compelling? It’s more than just the novelty of finding something classic. For Tommi Cullen, the discovery was deeply emotional. “The kids’ names and ages were really special too,” she told Newsweek. “Seeing the dog in the first set of names and not on the second was heartbreaking.” This emotional resonance taps into a fundamental human desire to connect with the past and understand the lives of those who came before us.
From F&F Lozenges to TikTok Fame: Documenting the Unexpected
The Cullens didn’t stop at the note and dollar. They as well found an old box of F&F cough lozenges. They plan to incorporate these finds into the bathroom’s décor, alongside a Polaroid of themselves and a note for future homeowners – creating their own time capsule. Sharing the discovery on TikTok, where the video garnered over 1.6 million views, demonstrates the power of social media in amplifying these personal histories.
The Future of Home Renovation: Preservation and Storytelling
This trend suggests a shift in how we approach home renovation. It’s no longer solely about updating aesthetics or increasing property value; it’s about uncovering and preserving the stories embedded within the walls of our homes. Expect to observe:
- Increased Demand for Historical Research: Homeowners may increasingly commission historical research on their properties before undertaking renovations.
- “Preservation-Focused” Renovations: A greater emphasis on preserving original features and incorporating found objects into new designs.
- Social Media Documentation: Continued sharing of renovation discoveries on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, creating a collective archive of hidden histories.
- Integration of Smart Home Technology: Imagine smart home systems that can detect and document hidden spaces or artifacts during renovations.
The Psychological Impact of Uncovering the Past
Beyond the practical and aesthetic considerations, uncovering these hidden pieces of the past can have a profound psychological impact. It fosters a sense of connection to the community, a deeper appreciation for the history of our homes, and a reminder that we are all part of a larger narrative.
FAQ
Q: Is it common to find things hidden in walls during renovations?
A: It’s becoming increasingly common, particularly in older homes.
Q: What should you do if you find something unexpected during a renovation?
A: Document it with photos and videos. Consider researching the history of the item or the previous owners of the home.
Q: Can finding these items affect a home’s value?
A: While not always directly quantifiable, the historical significance and unique story can add to a home’s appeal.
Q: Where can I find more information about the history of my home?
A: Local historical societies, libraries, and online property records are good starting points.
Did you know? The act of leaving messages or objects hidden within walls has a long history, dating back centuries. It’s a way for people to abandon their mark on the world and connect with future generations.
What hidden treasures might your home be hiding? Share your renovation stories in the comments below!
