Remodelling An Older Calgary Home: Which Features Should You Keep?

When it comes to renovating an older home, there are a variety of factors to consider. Homeowners often face the dilemma of deciding which features should stay and which should go. The Calgary neighbourhood has many older homes that offer spacious layouts, charming details, and unique architectural features. However, as time passes, the functionality and style of these may no longer meet the needs of modern homeowners.

If you’re looking for “home remodelling services near me,” you’re in the right place.  Handyman Connection’s experts can help you begin revamping your older Calgary home. This blog article aims to provide guidance on which features to consider keeping during a remodelling project. By evaluating the home’s structural integrity, aesthetic characteristics, and practical value, you can make informed decisions about where to focus your renovation efforts.

Preserving the Character: Embracing the Charm of Your Home 

When you choose to remodel an older home, it’s crucial to identify the timeless features that add to its unique charm. The trick is to maintain these elements while ensuring they can accommodate modern living requirements. Below, we’ll mention some universally loved factors in older homes that you can consider preserving. 

Original Hardwood Floors 

There’s something warm and inviting about original hardwood floors that cannot be replicated. If your house has them, it’s likely worth your while to restore these gems. Even if they’re hidden under decades-old carpets, restoring hardwood floors can be an enriching process that can bring a welcomed sense of history. 

Fireplaces and Mantels 

Fireplaces and mantels offer more than warmth. They serve as a focal point, delivering a cozy, intimate ambiance in a room. If you have one, consider restoring or updating it while maintaining its original design and materials. This can transform it into both a functional and aesthetic asset to your home. 

Stained Glass Windows 

The stained glass windows often found in older homes can add intriguing colour and timeless appeal. While it’s essential to check their condition and ensure they are well-insulated, these windows can be a distinctive feature to retain in your renovation. 

Remember, it’s all about honouring historical integrity while imparting a sense of freshness and novelty. Consider involving an experienced contractor who understands the delicate balance needed when updating an older home.

Striking a Balance: Blending Modern Upgrades with Classic Elements 

When it comes to renovating an older home, embracing the charm of classic features while incorporating modern amenities can seem like a tough balancing act. Yet, it’s crucial not to lose sight of what makes these old houses special. That unique blend of old and new can create a timeless appeal that can both enhance your property value and make a pleasant living space. 

Updated Kitchens 

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of a home, and a blend of modern upgrades within an older space can create results that are both beautiful and functional. Here’s where you can incorporate modern appliances and smart technology while maintaining the traditional layout and charm. 

• Stay true to the original layout: Maintain the room’s footprint and original architecture where possible. These older plans often allowed for better ventilation and natural light.

• Use similar materials: If you’re upgrading surfaces, consider natural materials that match the time when the house was built. For instance, soapstone or butcher-block countertops can go well with older aesthetics.

• Add modern appliances: Embrace newer technology that can seamlessly integrate into the aesthetic of your kitchen without clashing with its vintage look.

Re-imagined Bathrooms 

Older bathrooms can be updated while still respecting the charm and style that make your house unique. Think about adding touches like heating floors, contemporary fixtures, or a walk-in shower with timeless subway tile.   

Modernizing fixtures can breathe new life into your space without sacrificing its vintage appeal. Yet, it’s imperative to strike a balance – maintain original charm while accommodating contemporary comfort and efficiency. High-quality faucets, rain shower heads, or energy-efficient toilets can elevate your bathroom’s ambiance and functionality without compromising on its historical style. 

But it’s not just about fixtures. The choice of materials can significantly impact the character of your historic home. Consider using materials that complement the original craftsmanship. For instance, a clawfoot tub or pedestal sink can retain the old-world luxury of your bathroom, contributing to a harmonious blend of old and new. 

Preserving the Neighbourhood: Maintaining the Architectural Integrity of Calgary 

Keeping the distinctive character of a historic neighbourhood, like Calgary, begins at home. The architectural integrity of your property contributes to the overall ambiance of the area, and as a homeowner, it’s important to honour that. 

Exterior Elements 

When it comes to the exterior of an older home, there are key elements that should be preserved to maintain the architectural integrity of the entire neighbourhood. These can include, but are not limited to: 

• Porch columns: Original, sturdy porch columns give off that quaint charm associated with older homes. Restoring them, rather than replacing allows you to maintain this unique element of your property.

• External doors and windows: Often, these features have distinctive designs that are hard to replicate. Preserve their integrity by ensuring they’re well-maintained and regularly restored.

• Rooftops: Older homes generally come with unique roof designs, such as gables or distinctive shingles. These contribute heavily to the unique look of local houses.

Landscaping 

Landscaping is another aspect that can significantly alter the neighbourhood’s overall look. It’s typically encouraged to preserve trees, especially if they’re significant to the property’s history. Tasteful landscaping choices can easily enhance the exterior charm.

Maintaining the Brickwork 

Calgary is well-known for its red-bricked houses. These create unique character and charm and are a signature element of this neighbourhood. If your house has original brickwork, consider professional restoration to preserve it rather than carrying out excessive alterations. 

Taking these steps not only ensures your house remains an integral part of the town’s history, but it can also potentially increase your property’s value. After all, there’s no price tag on historical value and originality.

Handyman Connection’s Home Remodelling Services 

When you decide to embark on your remodelling journey with Handyman Connection, you’re choosing a devoted partner with extensive expertise in all facets of the process, from initial consultation to project completion. Our specialists can assist in identifying which features should be preserved to retain its charming character. 

Our Proven Process 

We believe in transparency and wholesome collaboration on every renovation project we undertake. Our process comprises: 

1. Consultation: A detailed discussion to understand your ideas, goals, and any specific requirements.

2. Design & Plan: After understanding your vision, we create a comprehensive plan outlining the required tasks, their order, and the approximate timeframe.

3. Implementation: Our skilled professionals get to work, always respecting your home and ensuring minimal disruption.

4. Completion & Review: Upon completion, every work is carefully reviewed to maintain our high standards of quality.

Services We Offer 

Handyman Connection offers a wide range of renovation services, including but not limited to: 

• Interior and exterior renovations
• Kitchen and bathroom updates
• Basement finishing
• Decks and fencing
• Carpentry services
• Plumbing and electrical work

No task is too small or too big for us. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or considering a comprehensive remodelling, we’ve got you covered. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your older Calgary home whilst preserving its unique charm, get in touch with Handyman Connection today!