I've stayed away from refurbishing ruins. This is RP motivated, as I've found books (with the current character) that speak of terrible times. My characters is afraid of the ruins or what effect they'll have on him and will not stay close, other than a quick investigation. Most items he finds, he leaves there, unless they're super useful.
It's a great idea though! My next character may be looking to restore the civilisation of old, I'll have to find out!
Please follow up this post with a bigger building, once you've gotten to it! I'm very interested to see what you'll make of it!