HIGH POINT – Alan Ferguson readily admits he’s become obsessed with his latest project – the renovation of the Caring Services/Vet Safety Net facility on Chestnut Drive.

“When I walked in that house, I remember thinking, ‘This place should look like somebody cares – like it’s a home that welcomes people,’” the longtime High Point interior designer says. “And before I knew it, I had so totally thrown myself into this project. I guess you would say it’s become an obsession.”

Ferguson, founder and owner of Alan Ferguson Interiors, has volunteered his services to design a complete interior rehab of the facility, which opened its doors to homeless veterans in 2000.

“I know quality and I know style, and I want to give this place some style and quality that those veterans will appreciate,” Ferguson says. “‘Who would ever think I’d be living in a nice place like this?’ That’s what I want them to think when they walk in that house. They’ll respect it, and it will give them a sense of self-esteem.”

The Vet Safety Net is a six-bedroom facility – plus two common areas – that provides transitional housing for homeless veterans, typically veterans who have struggled with substance abuse. The program provides individual case management, counseling services, support and advocacy for the veterans.

“We try to help them rebuild as a whole person,” explains Jason Yates, program coordinator. “We’ve had some real successes – folks who are really grasping the principles of recovery and changing their lives.”

According to Yates, the facility has not undergone a major renovation since it opened.

“We haven’t done a comprehensive overhaul,” he says. “Most of what we’ve done has been kind of piecemeal repairs. When a couch starts to look old and ratty, we throw it out and bring in another one, or we might repaint rooms as they need it, but we haven’t done a complete overhaul in the nearly 10 years that we’ve been open.”

Volunteer Pat Phelps is leading several of the veterans in a painting project at the facility, but she’s thrilled to know Ferguson has far grander plans in store.

“What started out as just a repaint has turned into a really exciting renovation,” she says. “I think it’s going to be a fantastic way to honor these veterans.”

Ferguson has begun his design work – choosing paint schemes, fabric samples and so on.

“The first thing we’re going to do is rip up all the carpet in the entire place and put down manufactured wood floors,” he says. “And then I’m doing area rugs that will pick up color and pattern. I’m using a very multicolored scheme for the most part, because it’s more pleasing. I don’t want it to all be brown and tan.”

Ferguson needs help, though.

“I have a total picture in my mind, if I only had the money or support to back it up,” he says. “I would love to think I can get people behind me and get the two common areas ready before Christmas, so we can put up a Christmas tree for them.”

Ferguson says the project has been personally rewarding.

“When I see people who are much, much less fortunate than me, knowing I could be in that same boat, I’m just so blessed and thankful that I’m able to be a part of it,” he says.

“...It just makes me want to make their life better – at least where I can – and I guess that’s why I’m obsessed. You’ve got to give back, and this is a way I can give back.”