Yes, Ann Arbor enforces specific permits and regulations for historic home remodeling. Depending on the scope of your project, you may require permits or approvals from the Ann Arbor Historic District Commission. These regulations aim to preserve the historical character of the city and ensure that renovations align with the area's historical significance.

This may determine what changes are possible when making updates to your home’s exterior and interior. At Forward, we simplify the process for our clients by handling all the project management—including obtaining permits and designing with respect to your home’s history.

It can be tricky to preserve the historic character of your home while making modern upgrades. But with the right design-build remodeler, it can be simpler than you think.

One of our favorite strategies is opening up the space and incorporating more natural light. Historic homes tend to have more compartmentalized rooms that feel darker than modern-day designs. We can open up walls, upgrade to larger windows, add skylights, and more. To preserve your home’s historic feel, we can restore and accentuate any unique features of your home—like original wood flooring, built-in bookshelves or seating, and moldings or archways.

Common issues related to updating older structures are the presence of lead paint, asbestos, or hidden structural damage, which require careful handling and mitigation. You may also discover major structural issues, like outdated foundations, insulation, or HVAC systems. These will need to be addressed before you can fully upgrade your historic home. Finally, the permitting process can be complicated and restrictive for certain historic homes and neighborhoods.

The most important decision you make when remodeling your historic home is who you hire. It’s essential to choose a design-build remodeler who understands the intricacies of historic home remodeling and preservation. Without a quality expert by your side, you can easily become overwhelmed by complicated permitting and regulations, unexpected costs, and unforeseen project delays. Ultimately, remodeling an older home can be a rewarding endeavor, but it necessitates expertise, meticulous planning, and a deep respect for the home's history. In Ann Arbor neighborhoods, that respect becomes especially important.