A Guide to Remodeling Your Historic Home in Ann Arbor

There’s truly no experience like owning a historic home. From the rich character and history to creaky floorboards and drafty windows, a home's historic character is sometimes overshadowed by constant repairs or lack of functionality. That’s where a historic home remodel allows you to have both your historic home and an updated home with modern amenities. Knowing what questions to ask a builder before you begin the historic home remodel process will allow you to remain informed every step of the way.

How Do I Remodel My Old House to New

Remodeling your historic home marries the art of preservation with the comforts of modern living. The key to restoring old houses is understanding home remodeling’s role in Ann Arbor’s historic homes, which remain part of your neighborhood’s distinct fabric. This vibrant city, steeped in history and culture, is home to distinct architectural styles waiting for a thoughtful touch to restore their past glory while weaving in contemporary comforts. Our goal is to steer you through the delicate process of remodeling historic homes in Ann Arbor, blending old-world charm with modern functionality.

What Should I Remodel First in an Old House?

If you peruse design blogs, it can be overwhelming to discern what part of your old house you need to remodel first. However, the answer is much more simplistic than the eye-catching photos might lead you to believe. At Forward Design Build Remodel, we prioritize needs and function over aesthetics. If a feature in your historic home is impeding your lifestyle or comfort, or worse, becoming a money pit, you should remodel that part of your old house first.

What Permits Are Required for Remodeling a Historic Home in Ann Arbor?

Historic Home Remodel Rules

It’s no surprise that remodeling a historic home in Ann Arbor comes with a set of regulations designed to protect the city’s architectural heritage. These guidelines impact everything from exterior changes to material selections. Start early by selecting a builder familiar with these rules, ensuring your remodel project moves smoothly without legal hiccups.

Securing Permits

Securing permits for remodeling historic homes in Ann Arbor is more complicated than modern home remodeling because of the importance of historic home preservation in Ann Arbor.  An experienced builder familiar with the nuances of restoring old houses will be comfortable working with Ann Arbor’s zoning department and the Historic District Commission (HDC). The HDC first signs off on your project after ensuring all submitted plans respect historic home remodel rules. Any exterior modifications beckon a closer inspection by the HDC board to affirm the preservation of the home's historic integrity. This is why working with a builder specializing in historic home remodel is imperative. 

Our experience saves you time, money, and stress in your historic home remodel.

How Can I Maintain the Historical Integrity of My Home During the Remodeling Process?

Embrace the Restoration of Ann Arbor’s Old Homes

At the heart of historic preservation lies the commitment to restore. This often requires diligent research to rediscover and rehabilitate original features and materials that time has concealed or altered. Whether we’re bringing hardwood floors back to life or replicating period-appropriate moldings, restoration maintains your home’s historical integrity.

Grasp the Historical Significance of Your Home

You can initiate your renovation project by engaging with Ann Arbor’s local historical societies or consult the city’s historic preservation office to uncover the stories and significance behind your home’s design and features. Understanding your home's past sets the stage for a remodel that honors its history. Let us complete the handiwork while you enjoy the research.

Select Materials and Designs with Care

Your materials and design choices should respect your home’s historic character and incorporate contemporary styles. Opt for window or door replacements that echo the home’s era or design additions that complement rather than dominate the original architecture. Your primary goal should be to ensure renovations resonate with the home’s historical aesthetic while elevating your home with the latest innovations and technology in its finishes.  

Strategically Plan Your Remodel

Historic home remodel is all about strategy. Strategizing your remodel involves preserving your home’s historical features while updating it for modern living. This might mean restoring original woodwork and windows to highlight the home's historic charm or modernizing the plumbing and electrical systems for safety and efficiency.

Overcome Challenges with Expert Guidance

Remodeling historic homes in Ann Arbor can unearth unforeseen structural issues or bureaucratic hurdles. Hiring a team like Forward Design Build Remodel, renowned for our historic remodeling expertise, can help you navigate these challenges. Our proficiency in local regulations, craftsmanship, and historical detail is invaluable throughout the entire historic home remodel process.

Integrate Modern Comforts Thoughtfully

While honoring your home’s history, integrating modern conveniences and energy efficiencies enhances living quality. This may involve updating HVAC systems, improving insulation without compromising architectural details, or installing modern kitchens and bathrooms that subtly nod to the home’s original period.

The Value in Remodeling a Historic Home

You might wonder if it is worth it to remodel an old home, a decision only you can make. For so many of our happy clients, the value of a historic home paired with modern amenities allows them to live in the best of two worlds - character and beauty with comfort and technology.

Remodeling a historic home transcends mere aesthetics; it’s about enriching a piece of history with your personal narrative. Historic home remodeling preserves a slice of Ann Arbor’s heritage and contributes to the distinct identity that makes Ann Arbor a vibrant, thriving community.

Remodel Your Historic Home with Us

If you’re ready to begin a historic home remodeling project with an experienced team that understands the historic zoning permits and architecture in Ann Arbor, our team is the team for you. Contact Forward Design Build Remodel today to get started.

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