50 Houses That Were Restored To Their Historical Glory

Restoring a historic home isn’t as simple as giving it a fresh coat of paint or swapping out the fixtures. It’s about respecting the character and craftsmanship of the original design. Unlike modern renovations, this kind of project often means hours of research, sourcing authentic materials, and maybe even decoding old blueprints. There’s also the added complexity of navigating permits and regulations that apply only to historic structures.

One of the trickiest parts is finding skilled professionals who understand the language of old houses. It’s not just about experience, it’s about the right kind of experience. You’ll want someone who can tell the difference between Victorian, Colonial, or Craftsman detailing and who knows how to work with original materials.

Experts like the Brownstone Boys, Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, point out in a piece for Homes & Gardens that old homes often come with surprises. “If a historic home has fallen into disrepair, it’s so important to take your time, get expert opinions, and arm yourself with as much information as possible. What may seem like a small issue (e.g., a single crack in a wall or some rotten floorboards) can indicate a larger problem that needs to be addressed at the source.”

It’s tempting to want to modernize everything, but preservation is a balancing act. You want to update essential systems like plumbing and wiring without disrupting the historical integrity of the space. Yes, the house might need a new HVAC system, but that doesn’t mean ripping out original radiators or crown moldings. It’s a dance between safety, comfort, and authenticity, one that requires patience and thoughtful planning.

Another curveball is the local regulations. Most historic homes are protected by preservation laws that limit what you can change and how. These rules are meant to keep the home’s character intact, but they can add extra steps to your timeline. In some areas, even replacing a window or painting your front door might require board approval. While it may sound like a hassle, these guidelines help maintain the historical fabric of entire neighborhoods.

Budgeting is a chapter all on its own. Let’s be honest: restoring a historic home isn’t cheap. Whether it's importing rare materials or hiring niche experts, the costs can add up fast. And while budget-friendly shortcuts might be tempting, they often lead to compromises that can diminish the home’s value and charm. The best approach? Start with a flexible but realistic budget and expect a few surprises along the way.