Historic Renovation vs. Remodeling, benefits to both
I can easily say that at some point we have all fallen with the architecture and charm of older portions of our metropolis or smaller towns. There is something to be said for the uniqueness and inspirational character of time periods from the past. Sometimes the talent and artistry of the trades involved in the architecture leave you in awe as your eye moves from detail to detail, wondering how they managed to accomplish the detail without the tools that we have today.
As a design professional, we often discuss trends in the new construction world, or how designers transform a poor layout design in a home that was built in the last half of the previous decade. However, it’s time for a blog that discusses the opportunities and homes built in the first half of the 19th century (or even older).
Often times historical homes are located in the best parts of the city, where you have ample access to neighborhood shops, main artery roads and in Minneapolis – even lakes. Most homes in these areas have underlying charm that is begging to shine through if the home has yet to be renovated or remodeled. What is the difference between the two? Renovation’s restore the home to good condition, and sometimes to match the period character of the home. The original design isn’t altered drastically, but often updated with new materials. Remodeling involves changing the use of the space by changing the layout of a room and reconfiguring the floor plan. In either instance, through working with a professional designer, the homeowner and the designer can work together to revive the home phase-by-phase.
Historical homes often have great bones and detail built-in that normally cost a lot of money to incorporate when building anew home. Things like curved staircases with custom handrails, built-in cabinet storage in every room, beams and coffered ceilings, wainscoting, 10-12″ baseboards, large wood-burning fireplaces – all character that are more expensive to add to a home now, than to restore in a historical home.
Interior Designers will use those design details to their advantage to create a stunning end result, while adding efficiency and function to the space around them. Professionals and homeowners working together on these homes will help to make the phases of renovation or remodeling seem less daunting and in the end you’ll have one of the best locations in the city and wake up every morning appreciating the unique charm of your home.
Sources:
Image 1: Dunnedwards.com | Image 2: The Room Company, London | Image 3: Neuhaus Design Archicture & JP Warren Interiors, Brooklyn
