Newly minted college graduate Blake Dollahite saw an opportunity in this transitional time to build a foundation for his future. With a small bank loan and a lot of helping hands, Dollahite dove into his first year of freedom by shackling himself to a rundown Austin bungalow and preparing to make it home.

The bedroom, shown here, takes up the small second floor of the house.

Photo by: Misty Keasler  Photo 2 of 6 in Don't Mess with Modern

Don't Mess with Modern

2 of 6

Newly minted college graduate Blake Dollahite saw an opportunity in this transitional time to build a foundation for his future. With a small bank loan and a lot of helping hands, Dollahite dove into his first year of freedom by shackling himself to a rundown Austin bungalow and preparing to make it home.

The bedroom, shown here, takes up the small second floor of the house.

Photo by: Misty Keasler