Renovating A Historical Home? 5 Reasons To Have An Architectural Review
Posted on: 5 April 2021
Do you want to remodel your historical home? While some facets of a major renovation for homes with historical value are similar to renovations for modern houses, other elements are unique. For this reason, any historical homeowner should consider ordering a certified architectural review prior to a large renovation. Here are five reasons why.
1. It May Face Official Review.
Many communities protect historical properties and districts by ensuring that renovations or alterations meet certain standards. If it's likely that your plans will face official scrutiny and require any sort of approval, you should preempt problems and additional costs by ensuring it's correct from the start.
2. Historical Properties Have Extra Quirks.
The older the home, the more likely it is to present unique challenges. These might range from outdated electrical systems to time-period materials to interior flow problems. Certified architects are particularly trained and skilled to find more creative answers than home repair contractors in general.
3. Careless Renovations Damage Value.
Modern houses often look great after just about any style of renovation the homeowner wishes. But when you own a historic property, you risk devaluing the real estate if renovations don't fit the home's period, style, and materials. Placing a well-intentioned modern addition onto the side of a Victorian home, for instance, may result in more space but it will permanently change the façade for the worse.
4. Architects Have a Different Network.
Contractors have a network of suppliers, tradespersons, and vendors to supply what you need to complete your plans. But if your remodel project includes replicating time period materials styles or even locating vintage pieces, you need a different set of suppliers. Architects travel in different circles and can provide a different set of recommendations.
5. You May Need to Undo Earlier Work.
Finally, historical homes that have passed through many hands may have seen inappropriate renovations and changes over the years. When planning your own alterations, you may be able to improve the home's value and look by undoing some of this prior work. An architect can examine the property's history as well as its architectural context to find hidden treasures and restore its past glory.
Could your remodeling plans be affected by any of these common challenges? If so, start planning by meeting with an interior designer who specializes in architectural review today. They can provide more information regarding certified architectural reviews. This investment of time will undoubtedly result in better home values and a less stressful renovation project.
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