Remodeling a Home in a Historic District: What You Need to Know
When my wife and I decided to purchase a home in a historic district, we knew we were in for an adventure. The charm of old homes, with their unique architecture and rich history, was irresistible. However, we quickly realized that remodeling a home in a historic district comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. If you're in a similar situation, let me share some valuable tips we've learned along the way.
1. Understand the Rules and Regulations
The first thing you’ll need to do when planning your remodel is to understand the rules and regulations governing renovations in your area. In historic districts, the preservation of architectural integrity is crucial, and there are often strict guidelines on what changes can be made. For example, in many districts, you can’t just replace a window or repaint a building without approval.
Before you get started, check with the local historic preservation office or your district’s planning commission. They will provide you with the necessary documentation and guidelines for your renovation. We were surprised to learn that some changes, like replacing the front door, required approval even if the existing one was beyond repair. It’s important to plan ahead and ensure your remodel meets these standards.
2. Keep the Historical Features in Mind
One of the most important aspects of remodeling a home in a historic district is maintaining its historical charm. For us, this meant preserving the unique architectural features that made our home special. We chose to restore the original hardwood floors instead of replacing them and decided to keep the vintage fireplace as a focal point in the living room.
When working on your remodel, think about the elements that give your home character. Are there ornate molding or stained-glass windows you can restore rather than remove? Can you repurpose antique fixtures to match modern needs? These are the small details that can help preserve the authenticity of your home while still making it functional and comfortable.
3. Budget for Unexpected Expenses
Renovating in a historic district can quickly become an expensive undertaking. As we began our remodel, we discovered hidden issues behind the walls and under the floors—problems that wouldn’t have been apparent without tearing things up. In our case, this included outdated plumbing that didn’t meet modern codes, and structural issues that needed to be addressed before we could move forward with cosmetic changes.
It’s crucial to budget for these unexpected expenses. Once you start the renovation, it’s likely you’ll uncover issues that were previously hidden. Having a contingency fund will save you from unnecessary stress and help you stay on track financially. We ended up setting aside an additional 20% of our total budget just for unforeseen costs, and it turned out to be a lifesaver!
4. Hire Professionals Who Specialize in Historic Homes
Another lesson we learned the hard way was the importance of hiring the right professionals. Many contractors may be skilled in modern home renovations, but working on historic homes requires a special touch. We needed craftsmen who understood the intricacies of older construction and could work with original materials like plaster, wood, and brick.
When choosing a contractor, make sure they have experience with historic homes and are familiar with the local building codes. Ask for references and examples of past projects. A professional who specializes in historic renovations can help you avoid mistakes that could compromise the integrity of your home and ensure that your remodel is done correctly.
5. Preserve the Curb Appeal
In historic districts, curb appeal is everything. Your home doesn’t just belong to you; it’s part of the fabric of the entire neighborhood. While it’s tempting to make bold changes that suit modern tastes, we found that blending in with the surrounding homes is essential. We opted for a more classic color palette for our exterior, using muted tones that complemented the homes around us.
Consider what features are common in the area and aim to maintain a similar aesthetic. You don’t have to copy your neighbors, but it’s important to respect the historical context of the area. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult with a local preservation expert who can guide you in the right direction.
6. Be Patient and Enjoy the Process
Finally, remodeling a home in a historic district takes time. There are many moving parts, from obtaining permits to sourcing the right materials to making sure all the work aligns with the preservation standards. It’s easy to get frustrated when things don’t move as quickly as you’d like, but remember that this is a process that requires patience.
In the end, the hard work and delays were worth it. Our home is not just a beautiful place to live; it’s a piece of history. Whether you’re restoring original features or blending the old with the new, keep in mind that you’re part of something larger than yourself. Enjoy the journey, and embrace the challenges that come with remodeling a home in a historic district.
7. Don’t Forget to Consider Long-Term Value
When remodeling a historic home, it’s easy to get caught up in the immediate improvements, but it’s important to also consider the long-term value of your investment. Historic homes tend to increase in value over time, especially if you maintain their charm and stay true to their character. By choosing to preserve historical features and make thoughtful updates, you’re not only enhancing your living space but also contributing to the long-term preservation of the area.
We’ve found that by keeping the architectural integrity intact, we’ve added both value to our home and to the overall neighborhood. Historic district homes often attract buyers who appreciate the history and craftsmanship that older properties offer. If you ever decide to sell, you’ll be glad you made these choices.
