There are many things to consider when renovating an historic home. You should keep the elements of the home that reflect its era but make changes that work for your family. So how do you balance those renovations? With the help of a reputable design/build company, you can keep the charm and history in your home and bring it into this century.
Reworking the Layout
One of the major changes many people request when renovating an historic home is changing the layout. That’s because there are often many smaller rooms that served a single purpose rather than a larger multi-purpose space. Before you decide to move to an open floorplan, keep in mind that trends have shifted back to separate rooms, so you may not want to completely open up the living spaces. Rather, consider combining just two rooms or simply adding larger openings to each room for a more open feel. A good design/build company will be able to help you make the most out of the square footage you have with the fewest changes to the layout.
Modern but Not Trendy
There’s nothing wrong with including some current trends — as long as they complement the historic nature of the home. As remodelers, one thing we tell our clients is that paint is very easy to change. If you want to go with a trend, choose a trendy paint color. Of course, if the kitchen still includes white or black appliances, there’s nothing wrong with choosing stainless (or, better yet, hidden appliances) when modernizing your kitchen. However, some things to consider leaving in an historic home when possible include the fireplace mantle, moldings and any decorative windows. These features are irreplaceable.
Consider Small Touches of History
Even if the previous owner removed many of the historic features of the home, talk to your design/build company about some modern elements that reflect the period of the home’s construction. That may mean a chair rail or choosing a more elaborate period chandelier in a formal dining room. Perhaps consider open shelving in the kitchen or glass-front cabinets that may have been common when the home was built. Because wallpaper is again in style, it may be easier than you think to add an accent wall with new wallpaper that reflects what may have been present at the time the home was built.
An Alternative for Windows & Doors
Most historic homes have wood windows. They look great but require considerable maintenance. If you’re remodeling an historic home and know that you want to make the home more energy-efficient with new windows, consider clad windows. Fiberglass and aluminum clad windows look just like wood windows with significantly less maintenance.
Choose Remodelers With Experience
G.M. Roth Design Remodeling has helped homeowners from Merrimack to Dunstable and all communities in between with historic home remodeling. Our designers understand how to balance historic charm with modern conveniences. Call our design/build company today at (603) 880-3761 or fill out our contact form for your free consultation.
