Renovating Your Historic Home
According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, renovating a historic home takes careful consideration. Historical and architectural accuracy can conflict with modern conveniences, as well as local building code requirements and historic preservation. Here are a few important renovations to be careful of in your planning:
- Windows: If at all possible, find ways to address energy efficiency without compromising the appearance of the home. Windows in an historic house often convey the charm and distinction of older homes. Rebuilding the wooden sashes while using the original glass is the best solution to the dual goal of energy efficiency and historic integrity. You’ll probably need to hire a licensed contractor who specializes in historic homes.
- Exterior Paint and Trim: Most of the time the particular Historic District will have rules concerning exterior features. They may require period-accurate color schemes and appointments. Details like lighting, trim and and hardware should be in keeping with the historic period architecture.
- Landscaping: Doing research regarding garden design of the historic period of your home is worth the trouble. If you are planning hardscape of any kind, you’ll want to stick with what was typical during the period. Adding a modern Zen garden to a Federal home can be a negative.
- Decks, Patios and Porches: Adding or renovating outdoor rooms in styles other than your home’s historic period and architecture can have a negative effect on its value. These things are permanent and hard to change for someone who might want historical integrity.
- Pools and water features: Historic preservation guidelines can help in deciding what features are appropriate for your home’s architecture. These additions can be permanent, so you will want them to be accurate to the home’s historic period.
If you are thinking about buying or selling a historic home, REALTOR Connie Shuping has the expertise to help. With over 24 years of experience in Orange, Chatham & Durham County real estate, Connie Shuping and her Team will exceed your expectations. Visit the Great Triangle Homes website to find out why Connie Shuping continues to be a leader in local real estate.