Old Home Renovation Is a Specialized Process Involving Multiple Areas of Expertise
Old homes, especially those built in the 1940s and earlier, possess a particular charm and character not found in modern homes. The architectural complexities, historical significance, and the stories these homes tell make them distinctive.
Although older homes need remodels, just like any other home, working with these unique properties is more than just updating aesthetics and style. Remodeling old homes involves a more nuanced process that preserves the past while making your home compatible with modern living. This delicate approach underpins the difference between a regular remodel and historic home renovation, and it’s where the expertise of a specialized old home renovation company like Architectural Craftsmen truly shines.
Read on to learn more about what goes into an old home renovation.
What Makes Remodeling Old Homes Different From a Regular Renovation?
If a home is built in the mid-20th century or earlier, it is likely that you’ll need the services of an old home renovation company. Its structure, plumbing, electrical, and foundation were assembled when code was distinctly different. Over time, owners or age and wear and tear may have affected the home in unexpected ways. Older homes therefore require specialized attention and expertise to remodel safely and without affecting the historic and architectural integrity of the home.
Companies like Architectural Craftsmen specialize in remodeling old homes, bringing unique expertise, craftsmanship, and a meticulous three-step process to complete your interior and exterior home renovation projects.
When searching for old home renovation contractors near you, you will likely find many who will agree to take on your project, even if they don’t have the deep experience with historic homes. However a reliable, experienced old home renovation company will have a specialized process that considers important remodeling decisions instead of a
one-size-fits-all approach.
Quality Choice Of Materials
Hardwood floors, solid wood doors, leaded glass windows, and detailed woodwork are some examples of standard features you might see in a historic home. By contrast, many modern homes use engineered and synthetic materials such as plastics, laminate, vinyl, and engineered wood, which, while efficient, lack the timeless durability and elegance of their older counterparts and strip away the character and architectural integrity of a home.
Remodeling an old home often involves professional help to incorporate original materials into your updated design, finding materials to maintain historical integrity, and emulating the craftsmanship that makes your home special.
Architectural Details
Historic architectural elements add character and charm that is hard to replicate in new construction. When remodeling old homes, not only does Architectural Craftsmen focus on preserving and enhancing the features that make your historic home unique, but we employ specialized knowledge in working with these details. Check out our old home renovation before and after portfolio to see how our construction work protects the home’s unique story and authenticity while accommodating modern living.
Knowledge Of Period Appropriate Design
Old home renovation work must be approached with a reverence for the original design. This can include researching the home’s history, sourcing period-appropriate materials, and using traditional construction methods to maintain authenticity.
Attention to detail is a crucial part of this process. We’re meticulous when refreshing original woodwork, incorporating traditional materials into additions, or finding period-specific paint colors and materials. This level of detail ensures that the finished renovation is not only beautiful but also true to the home’s original design.=
Design and Structural Layouts
Rooms in historic homes tend to be compartmentalized, with distinct spaces for dining, living, and cooking – unlike many modern homes built with an open-concept design. Many old home remodels involve reconfiguring the layout to improve the flow, but it’s essential to do so in a way that respects the home’s original design and addresses any structural challenges.
In a professional old home renovation, an experienced team like Architectural Craftsman is trained to handle potential obstacles that come with remodeling old homes. These can include foundation problems, asbestos issues, wiring and plumbing, and lead paint and pipes. A knowledgeable renovation team will assess your home’s condition and plan for any hurdles, ensuring that there are as few old-home-related surprises as possible.
Balancing Modernization With Historical Integrity
One of the defining features of old home remodeling is the ability to modernize your home without compromising its historical integrity. This includes integrating modern amenities like updated kitchens, bathrooms, and energy-efficient systems while preserving or replicating the original architectural features.
It’s a delicate balance, and is one of the reasons why old home renovation companies like Architectural Craftsmen have a team of experienced professionals who are familiar in integrating old homes with modern living and can guide you through this process.
For an Attentive, Successful Renovation, Seek the Expertise Of Old Home Remodeling Specialists
Renovating a home built in the 1940s or earlier is a unique task that requires specialized attention, knowledge, and skills. As showcased from our old home renovation before and afters, our extensive experience in material selection, historical structure and layouts, and architectural and historical details, means we provide an all-encompassing renovation that’s completed with care and precision.
Let us help guide you every step of the way in your old home remodeling project as we bring your vision to life. Call (913) 963-2246 or send us a message online today!
