Welcome back to our off-grid adventure in Andalusia, Spain! This week, we tackled one of the more unpleasant remnants of our abandoned Spanish farmhouse: a termite-eaten interior door.
The termites are long gone, but the damage they left behind wasn’t. The doorframe was crumbling at the base, and every time someone opened the door, it blocked part of the projector screen—far from ideal in a small space.
🚪 Removing the Termite-Damaged Door
Once we started dismantling the door, we discovered the top of the frame was still surprisingly solid. So, instead of ripping everything out, we made the decision to preserve the upper part of the original wooden frame and replace the rotted lower section with fresh timber. The idea? Keep the rustic character, but make it safe and functional.
We swapped the bulky wooden door for something softer and more space-efficient—a curtain on a rail. It gives us privacy for when guests stay on the sofa bed, but can be tucked neatly away when not in use. The transformation opened up the room instantly!
“I love the unevenness of it—it has a story to tell.”
— Real thoughts from the build
🔨 Tools, Mishaps & Unexpected Challenges
Like any DIY project, there were hiccups. Missing tools, a forehead burn (don’t ask…), and a sander that refused to start all added to the fun. But we kept going, slowly restoring a part of the house that once felt beyond saving.
In true Renacer McGlynn fashion, we embraced the imperfections—leaving some of the old metal pins in place for a bit of historical charm. One day, we hope someone walks through this house and wonders about its past, just like we do now.
🪨 Revamping the DIY River Rock Tiles
To finish the makeover, we finally got around to waxing the river rock tiles we installed a few months ago using stones from the rambla at the bottom of our land. With a simple coat of clear varnish, the natural colours popped and brought so much warmth and texture to the space.
It’s a small detail, but one we’re incredibly proud of—it ties in beautifully with the natural, raw elements we’re weaving throughout the farmhouse.
🎥 Watch the Full Transformation
This project reminded us why we love this journey so much—turning what others might throw away into something full of personality, warmth, and purpose.
👉 Watch the full video on our YouTube channel here:
📺 Watch on Renacer McGlynn YouTube
📲 Follow Along for More Behind-the-Scenes:
- 🌿 Instagram: @renacer_mcglynn
- 📘 Facebook: Follow us here
- 🛠️ YouTube: Renacer McGlynn Channel
We’re so grateful to have you following along on this adventure—your comments, messages, and support keep us going as we breathe new life into our little corner of Spain 💛
