If you own a historic home, or any house with some charm and character from a past decade, remodeling can present some unique challenges. Perhaps you enjoy the aesthetic of the home and want to remodel in a way that honors that design, or maybe you don’t want to remodel the entire home and would like to make sure the new and old parts of the home blend together seamlessly.
We can help you design a home addition that blends with the current aesthetic and architecture of your home, or create a remodel plan with our advanced 3D technology that partners with the current design. Contact us any time to learn more about why we have had so many happy customers, and keep reading for tips to plan a remodel or addition without sacrificing your home’s character.
Things to Consider When Remodeling a Historic Home
Research the Home’s History
If you are not already familiar with the history of your home, take some time to learn as much about it as you can. Understand the architectural style, materials, and design elements of the original home, as well as what was popular during the time it was built. This knowledge will guide your design choices and help you retain the home’s unique character. In some cases, historic homes have regulations in place by the city when it comes to remodeling, so be sure to check for any and all rules or regulations prior to starting your remodeling journey.
Identify Key Features to Preserve
Most homes have a few prominent features that display the period in which it was designed or are simply some of your favorites parts of the design. Retain and restore the original architectural features that contribute to the home’s charm, such as trim work, crown molding, or decorative hardware. It is almost always best to repair and refurbish these elements rather than replacing them when remodeling.
Choose Compatible Materials
Select materials that complement the existing ones in terms of color, texture, and style. Opt for traditional materials like wood, natural stone, and plaster to maintain a cohesive look that aligns with the home’s original construction.
Remember that if you love a material that is modern and totally different from the home’s current look, you can incorporate it but need to understand how it may change the feel of the home. You should also be careful about remodeling only a portion of the home with a new material, as it will end up sticking out from the rest of the home.
You can integrate modern amenities and features discreetly without overpowering the home’s original design. Choose contemporary fixtures and appliances that have a vintage or timeless feel to create a harmonious balance between old and new. We can help you strike a balance between preserving the original design and updating with modern features.
Respect the Proportions and Details
Ensure that any new additions or changes in the remodel respect the home’s original proportions and scale. Pay attention to details such as window sizes, door heights, and room dimensions to maintain the overall architectural harmony.
Incorporate design elements that mimic the original architectural features. Use replica hardware, light fixtures, and decorative accents that match the style and period of the house to create a seamless transition between old and new.
Pay Attention to Flooring
Flooring is one of the top ways a home remodel can stick out from the existing home. If you choose a brand new LVP, for example, it will look obviously distinct from the original floors. Be careful to choose flooring materials that align with the style of the house, such as hardwood, reclaimed wood, or vintage tiles. Refinish existing hardwood floors to retain their original character, or source reclaimed materials to match the historical look.
Remember the Details
The details of the home, like furnishing, decor, and landscaping, go a long way toward preserving the character of it. Blend modern furniture with vintage or antique pieces to enhance the home’s historical ambiance. Incorporate family heirlooms or carefully chosen period pieces that harmonize with the overall aesthetic of the house.
When remodeling, maintain the integrity of the home’s exterior by preserving its original landscaping, architectural details, and overall curb appeal. Enhance the outdoor space with traditional plantings, pathways, and lighting that complement the home’s style and era.
Ready to learn more or get started on your remodeling dreams? Contact us any time.
