For homebuyers looking for the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day convenience, searching for historic homes with contemporary upgrades can be an ideal option. These one-of-a-kind properties merge historic architecture and features with sleek, modern design elements and the latest smart home technology. They retain their unique historic accents, like original hardwood floors, crown molding, and clawfoot tubs, while also offering open floor plans and high-end kitchens and bathrooms.
Upgraded historic homes appeal to a wide variety of buyers, from those simply wanting modern amenities to design enthusiasts attracted to the combination of modern and traditional styles. Their thoughtful renovations and adaptations also make these homes move-in ready. Those passionate about historic preservation can rest easy too, knowing the home’s original character has been retained.
This guide will cover what to look for when house hunting for updated historic residences, current real estate listings of renovated period homes, tips for blending classic and contemporary design, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re searching for a Victorian brownstone with smart home capabilities or a mid-century ranch refreshed with an open-concept floor plan, discovering the perfect fusion of old and new has never been easier.
Historic homes with modern upgrades for sale
What to Look for in Upgraded Historic Homes
When searching for historic houses modernized with recent remodels and technology, there are a few key features to seek out:
1. Original Architectural Details
Even with contemporary updates, transformed heritage homes retain their unique architectural details, like hardwood floors, ceiling medallions, crown moldings, wainscoting, and ornamental fireplace mantels. Features like these lend vintage homes their distinctive character and old-world craftsmanship. During showings, check that original accents haven’t been removed or concealed by new additions.
2. Layout Changes for Modern Living
While modernized period houses preserve historic design features, their floor plans receive thoughtful updates for contemporary lifestyles. Renovations often include:
- Open-concept layouts combining living, dining, and kitchen spaces
- Spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs and frameless glass showers
- Gourmet chef’s kitchens with high-end stainless appliances
- Home offices, gyms, and other specialized living spaces
3. High-Tech Smart Home Features
Modernized heritage homes merge old and new by outfitting their historic shells with cutting-edge smart home technology. Upgrades like these increase functionality, security, and energy efficiency:
- Smart thermostats regulating temperature and humidity
- Integrated audio systems streaming music room-to-room
- Video doorbells, security systems, and lighting controls accessed via apps
- Voice assistant compatibility for hands-free control
4. Energy Efficient Building Materials
Eco-conscious buyers will appreciate sustainability measures included with renovations. Some common energy efficient upgrades found in transformed period houses include:
- Triple pane windows minimize heat transfer
- Insulated exterior walls and attics prevent air infiltration
- High efficiency HVAC systems with programmable schedules
- Low flow plumbing fixtures reduce water usage
Blending original old world elegance with modern conveniences, adapted heritage homes offer buyers the best of both worlds. They retain their vintage character while upgrading living spaces and technology for contemporary needs.
Current Listings: Historic Homes Updated for Modern Lifestyles
Transformed heritage properties marrying classic and contemporary design elements are increasingly popular in the real estate market. Here are some current listings available:
1. Four Bedroom Victorian Rowhouse in Cambridge, MA
This $1.8 million Victorian brownstone retains its 1890s heritage while integrating modern updates. The four bedroom, three and a half bathroom home still displays its original wood floors, fireplace mantels, ceiling medallions, and intricate plaster moldings. An extensive remodel opened up the parlor level into a grand open concept living space. The kitchen now provides stainless appliances, marble countertops, and a full wet bar. Smart home features like a Nest thermostat, Ring doorbell, and integrated Sonos audio round out the updates.
2. Fully Renovated Craftsman Bungalow in Portland, OR
This historic 1917 Arts and Crafts style bungalow received extensive renovations while retaining its original charm and details. The $799,000 home still displays its oversized front porch, exposed beams, built-ins, and leaded glass windows. Inside, updates include an open concept kitchen and living with $50,000 of appliances, quartz counters, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite provides a spa-like bathroom and walk-in closet. Smart home integrations such as Lutron lighting controls, Sonos speakers, and Nest cameras blend seamlessly with historic elements.
3. Mid-century Brick Ranch Home in Austin, TX
This single story mid-century ranch received extensive modernizations while retaining its vintage 1964 architectural style. The Austin home provides over $100,000 in upgrades including an open concept kitchen and living room, luxury primary bathroom, and backyard pool oasis. Modern touches include Amazon Echo integration, USB outlets, and programmable lighting scenes. Historic details like the brick façade, terrazzo floors, stone fireplace, and wood paneled walls seamlessly blend with contemporary renovations. Now offered at $998,000.
4. Mediterranean Revival Style Home in Santa Barbara, CA
This $2.4 million property provides a rare opportunity to own a piece of Santa Barbara’s history. The restored 1920s Mediterranean estate sits on over half an acre near the desirable Upper East neighborhood. It retains hand painted tiles, imported mantels, arched doorways, and ironwork representative of the romantic 1920s Spanish style. Sensitive upgrades complement historic elements, like the gourmet kitchen with Wolf and SubZero appliances. Outdoors, and resort-like grounds provide a stone pool, outdoor kitchen, and guest casita.
Creating a Seamless Blend of Old and New
When remodeling a heritage home, preserving its existing vintage architectural elements while integrating modern updates can create unique challenges. Here are helpful tips for effortlessly fusing classic and contemporary styles:
Contrast and Compliment
Identifying color schemes, materials, and textures that contrast yet complement historic details creates a cohesive style. For example, pair sleek surfaces like polished concrete, metal beams, or glass tiles with weathered wood floors and brick walls.
**Design Transitional Kitchens and Bathrooms **
Kitchens and bathrooms typically receive the most upgrading. Design these rooms to transition smoothly from original architecture to new additions. Strategies include repeating vintage motifs with mosaic tiles, selecting classic white cabinetry, or exposing original wood ceiling beams over islands.
Incorporate Vintage Materials
Reclaimed barn wood, antique brick, and salvaged lighting can get pricey. But incorporating even subtle vintage materials links old and new. Ideas include a repurposed door remade into a coffee table or antique flooring integrated into a backsplash.
Add Warm Metallics
Warm metallics like brass, copper, and bronze relate better to heritage homes than cool chrome or steel. Try upgrading kitchen or bathroom fixtures and lighting or adding metal finishes to tiles or decor accents. Sconces, mirrors, and hardware with metallic finishes also pair nicely with vintage styles.
Through careful planning and strategic design choices, historic homes can undergo beautiful transitions to meet contemporary needs. Preserving original period details while upgrading systems and finishes results in updated heritage properties merging the best of past and present.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Modernizing Period Homes
For homebuyers interested in purchasing and updating a vintage property, the process raises many common questions. Here are answers to some often asked FAQs:
How expensive is modernizing a historic home?
Costs vary widely based on factors like location, size, needed renovations, and finishes selected. But as a general rule, expect to invest 10-25% above regional new construction rates. Preserving intricate original architectural details is labor intensive for contractors. And integrating smart home technology and luxury finishes carries added expenses.
What are the benefits of restoring vs. tearing down and rebuilding?
Adaptive reuse preserves quality materials, respects architectural heritage, and retains neighborhood context. There are also financial incentives like historic tax credits. Transforming a period house allows matching contemporary needs with vintage charm in ways new construction often can’t replicate affordably.
How are renovations financed on historic homes?
Leveraging equity or liquid cash are common approach for financing upgrades. Products like cash-out refinance or home equity lines allow borrowing against existing equity. Government backed renovation loans provide below market rate financing too. These target low income buyers improving homes in distressed areas though.
Should special considerations be made with interior design?
Yes, seamlessly incorporating modern elements within traditional architecture requires careful spatial planning. Design to prevent radically changing original layouts, remove architecturally significant features, or damage heritage fabric. Strategic lighting, furniture placement, and sightline considerations also matter when blending old and new aesthetic styles.
What permits and regulations apply to remodeling heritage homes?
Modifying properties within designated historic districts requires adhering to special building codes and review processes for exterior changes. Even non-designated homes may still need approvals for renovations like moving walls, replacing systems, or excavating foundations. Research local requirements thoroughly before planning projects.
