Ownership of an old brick home in one of DC’s historic neighborhoods comes with a unique set of responsibilities and decisions. Unlike owners of newer and more modern homes, you face the challenge of how to make your home comfortable while maintaining the authentic nature of its architecture and features.
Historic Preservation
Do I Need a Renovation Plan For My Old House?
Do you own an old house – maybe it’s historic – that could use an upgrade? Owners frequently struggle with the decision of what to do first. Old brick row houses in historic neighborhoods present additional challenges. Many of the historic features are subject to permitting regulations. Before you begin your renovation plan, consider that most renovation and […]
How to Preserve Your Old Brick Retaining Wall
Washington DC’s historic neighborhoods are well known for the old brick retaining walls that support tiered gardens in front of the old homes. Owners know that these hardworking structures add value and authenticity to the home and should be preserved and maintained with traditional design and materials.
What’s the Best Quality for Old Brick Restoration
The desire to own a piece of history – with the unique workmanship and features of an older homes – motivates many owners. Historical neighborhoods tend to be stable, with well-landscaped streets and close communities. Preservation of those unique architectural and design features is essential to maintaining the value and desirability of the individual dwellings and […]
Your Old House Can Live With Smart Technology
You are the proud owner of a beautiful old house located in a neighborhood of historic homes. You and your neighbors are careful to preserve their authenticity whenever you make renovations. An older home can still be a smart home while retaining that authenticity.
What Stories Can You Find in the History of Your Old House?
Washington DC is a city known for its rich history. Even if you’re not going to get your house designated as ‘officially’ historic, it might be fun to know about its history. Maybe your home had a speakeasy in the basement during prohibition, was part of the Underground Railroad, or was the site of an […]
Do You Know if Your Old House is Historic?
When you purchase on an old brick house in the Washington DC area, you have taken a step into history. Many neighborhoods, particularly those located in Historic Districts, are known for their stately and well-preserved architecture; some for their storybook charm. So, if your home was built in or before the early 20th century, it […]
Should You Rehab or Restore Your Old House?
Ownership of an old brick home in one of DC’s historic neighborhoods comes with a unique set of responsibilities and decisions. Unlike owners of newer and more modern homes, you face the challenge of how to make your home comfortable while maintaining the authentic nature of its architecture and features. There are many elements to […]
Your Old Brick Home is Rich With Treasures of Urban History
Homes in Washington DC’s historic neighborhoods are well known for their brick row houses. These 18th, 19th, and early 20th century brick residences tell a story of industrialization and urban growth that is well documented by modern historians and preservationists. Here’s a look at the history of old brick in the nation’s Capitol.
Love That Old House? How to Avoid Expensive Surprises
Of course, you love that classic historic house. You can picture how it will complement the other restored homes in the neighborhood. Before you allow that image to lull you into a decision, remember that old house renovations can be full of expensive surprises. Take some time to plan and carry out your own inspection.
