Remodeling a Historic Home

Dear Vicki,
My historic home desperately needs a kitchen and bathroom remodel, but I’m nervous about detracting from the house’s historic character. What do buyers really want, vintage style or modern convenience? Signed, Confused

Dear Confused,
No need to fret! You don’t have to sacrifice vintage charm to have modern convenience. The good news is that you can have both. Modern designers have created a wide range of styles for kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities that allow you to keep the nostalgic feel of your historic home while updating with state of the art fixtures. Think of it this way, if you struggle to open your silverware drawer, the buyers of your home will too. Nobody wants that. I’m sure you’d both appreciate an updated kitchen. So do it wisely. Stick with the period and style of your home. Craftsman style cabinets and vintage subway tiles look beautiful with today’s stainless steel appliances. Remember, the internet is full of beautiful homes and decorating ideas. Have you tried www.pinterest.com? Now there’s a fun place to do your research! Shhh… here’s my favorite historic remodeling secret, it’s www.rejuvenation.com. They offer incredible reproduction lighting, hardware, and home decor. In their own words “we obsess over the details of period authenticity and great design like no one else.” Amen. And thanks to good ol’ Benjamin Moore for taking the guesswork out of choosing a paint color. Check out their new historic color palette at your local Ace Hardware. So if you have always wanted to update your kitchen, do it NOW so you can enjoy it. I don’t know how many times I have heard sellers say “I wish I would’ve updated my kitchen years ago, not just before I sold!” Truly, it’s a smart decision to update your historic home. If done wisely and with respect for the home’s authentic character, I think selling will be the last thing on your mind.

To submit your question, please contact Vicki at E-Mail