How do you start to renovate a house built in 1870?
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Well Nancy it all depends on what all you want to do . . . And your budget. I would think modernizing it yet keeping as much of the original charm and character in tact as possible. If funds allow, I would at least have consults with historical interior designers at least for design ideas if you don't have any of your own. Be prepared as a house that old has all sorts of quirks once you start opening up walls and moving things around. Work on public rooms first as that is what people see when they visit. I suggest starting in the kitchen, as that is typically the most expensive room in the house to renovate. You don't do want to eat up your design budget and then have nothing left over to do the kitchen. And don't forget about landscaping, that can make or break the curb appeal. Should be done last after all interior and exterior renovations are complete.
Id start with essentials first- Maybe a house inspection for foundation, electrical and plumbing evaluations.Then Id look at energy efficiency- roof, insulation, and windows. Then Id hit the aesthetics - planned space usage &
. layout, flooring, & paint.
Hi Nancy! Wow what a great home you will have and from 1870. That is fantastic. I hope you will post pictures when you finish it so we can see it!
https://circaoldhouses.com/the-12-step-process-of-restoring-an-old-house/
https://www.curbed.com/2017/6/8/15762608/old-house-renovate-restore-tips
http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/old-house-renovation-paint-or-stain.shtml
https://thecraftsmanblog.com/how-to-insulate-an-old-house/
https://www.hometips.com/how-it-works/house-foundation-types.html
https://www.moneycrashers.com/buying-old-house-problems-costs-benefits/
You'll find some good ideas at This Old House website.