Older home remodels present challenges that distinguish them from all other types of remodels. However, confronting these challenges can also lead to rewarding opportunities to preserve historical charm, accent traditional architecture, update visual flow, and add modern comforts to a heritage home.
With the right information, homeowners can successfully prepare to remodel older homes by keeping the right priorities in mind every step of the way. From mid-century cottages to Victorian-era homes and everything in-between, this advice can translate to any remodel.
1. Past Remodels
Some features of older homes date back to their original periods while others have been added later. The challenges of remodeling are compounded by these complicated histories. If authenticity is the goal of the remodel, current homeowners must learn to recognize which elements of their home are original. Experienced designers can help identify the timeline of these changes to plan a remodel that feels authentic.
In addition to authenticity, safety is a related concern when remodeling old homes. Many chemicals, finishes, and materials used in older eras posed health risks, risks that modern homeowners can encounter during demolition or remodeling. Lead paint and asbestos insulation are two of the most common factors to consider.
2. Architectural Integrity
Architectural integrity is a key factor to consider when remodeling an older home. Most homes still have period-specific design elements such as their original wood floors, moulding, or trim, and these elements preserve the authentic character of the home’s design. While modernization can be convenient, most home remodels aim to preserve historic integrity when possible. With modern interior design techniques, this can be done without sacrificing functionality.
For example, modern appliances and fixtures can be brought in, but they should be integrated in a seamless way that complements rather than contradicts the existing architecture. Additionally, custom cabinetry and millwork can be added to a kitchen remodel to bridge the gap between period accuracy and modern convenience. Time-honored materials like marble and natural finished wood can be tastefully integrated without overshadowing the design.
3. Structural Regulations
While choosing colors, patterns, and styles is often the most enjoyable part of remodeling a home, structural regulations need to be a higher priority. Many older homes have outdated electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and roofing systems that need to be re-evaluated before the remodel can properly begin. Common problems discovered during the remodeling process include:
- Settled foundations
- Water damage
- Outdated insulation
- Damaged wiring
- Leaking plumbing
Maryland has a humid climate, making appropriate moisture management a primary concern throughout the planning process. Basements, bathrooms, and kitchens need to be properly ventilated and waterproofed to avoid further damage while the team works through the process of updating and repairing the existing structure to meet modern safety regulations.
Legal obligations are not the only reason to bring older homes up to code. Homeowners should be invested in choosing moisture-resistant materials and repairing old structures. This process will help protect their investment over the long term. At the same time, they should be prepared to set aside part of their remodeling budget, at least 10% in most cases, for unforeseen structural changes and repairs.
4. Improved Functionality
Older homes were not necessarily built to accommodate modern needs. Many homeowners seek multifunctional spaces with a modern flow, even while preserving the architectural style and flair of an older era. To do this, homeowners must recognize the limitations of many older designs and strategically improve their functionality without losing the essence of the home’s vision.
For example, many older kitchens are smaller than modern homeowners need. Storage space is more limited. Bathrooms tend to have fewer amenities. These are pivotal pain points for most remodels, but most people who own older properties don’t want to bulldoze the charm of their home for the sake of an update. This is a balancing act that often requires expert help.
Experienced modern designers and tradesmen look at cramped kitchen layouts for opportunities to open them up without sacrificing key architectural accents. Better flow can be achieved by making use of vertical shelving space and multifunctional cabinets, freeing the counters for more practical uses. Unused corner nooks can be turned into pantries to take pressure off the limited floorplan.
The same logic can apply to bathrooms, which are often smaller in older homes than modern homeowners expect. Custom millwork can be designed to increase storage while creatively expanding shower spaces. Vanities can be reconfigured to accommodate more users while nodding to the home’s period with vintage accent designs. In any room, natural light can be used to make spaces feel more open and inviting.
Recruit Local Maryland Home Remodeling Experts
Remodeling an older home in Maryland can be a challenge. Improving the flow and accessibility of the rooms without compromising the architectural charm can be a tall order. Additional considerations, such as safety concerns and building regulation changes, can result in a project with a lot of complex moving parts.
Our team of local designers at Southern Maryland Kitchen & Bath partners with in-house tradesmen, material suppliers, and contractors to plan and execute thoughtful remodels. Our goal is to achieve the homeowner’s new vision without compromising their property’s heritage.
Contact our team today to learn how we can remodel your older home, update its vision with new materials and designs, and preserve the charm that makes it distinct.
