How to Preserve Character With a Historic Home Renovation
There’s something undeniably magnetic about a historic home. It’s the original hardwood, sweeping staircase, the knowing glass, and the original fireplace mantel that somehow survived a century of trends. Renovating these homes isn’t just about making them livable — it’s about honoring their past while giving them a future at the same time.
Wondering how to preserve character with a historic home renovation in this day and age? You’re in the right place. At Jenn Smira & Co, we’re big fans of style and luxury, too — but this post is more about heart.
It’s about the choices that protect the intersection of history and functionality — and how to do it all in a way that doesn’t compromise on the life you’re building.
Historic Homes vs. Old Homes: Why It Matters
First things first, let’s get something straight: not all old homes are historic homes.
- Just because a home has aged doesn’t necessarily mean it holds cultural or architectural significance.
- Historic homes, on the other hand, often come with a story — a connection to a moment in time, a movement, or a particular style that helped shape a neighborhood or city.
This distinction matters, especially when considering historic home restoration grants, which are sometimes available only for properties listed on local or national historic registers. If your home qualifies, it might open the door to financial assistance for everything from roofing to window repair — as long as the renovations honor the original design.
Want to stay up to date on the latest DC real estate trends and insights? Subscribe to our newsletter right here.
Why Preserving Character is Non-Negotiable
Character isn’t just a buzzword. In a historic home, it shows up in the details:
- Hand-carved moldings
- Original transom windows
- Marble fireplace mantels (yes, there are some amazing ones right here in DC!)
- Wide-plank wood floors that transport you back in time with every charming creak
In short? Renovating doesn’t mean wiping the slate clean. It means being selective about what stays, what gets updated, and how you blend the two.
Where to Find Period Materials in Washington, DC
Whether you’re doing a full-scale old house restoration or just refreshing one room, the right materials can make or break the project. Thankfully, DC has some hidden gems for finding the real deal:
- Community Forklift – Just outside the city, this nonprofit salvage warehouse is packed with reclaimed materials—doors, wood trim, even sinks from the 1920s.
- Southern Sales Services – A lesser-known treasure trove, especially for sourcing salvaged materials like original windows, paneling, or even that elusive marble fireplace surround.
These aren’t just shops — they’re archives of the area’s architectural history.
Looking for more insights into home renovations and home ownership in DC? Here are a few more posts you might find interesting:
- How Much Value Does an In-Law Suite Add to Your Home
- How to Make Your Home Smart
- What to Know About DC’s New Mansion Tax
Renovate Like a Preservationist
A few tips to preserve what makes your historic home special:
- Document Before You Demo – Take photos of everything, even the cracked plaster. You’ll be amazed at how often you refer back.
- Match Materials When You Can – That new molding might be clean and crisp, but if it doesn’t match the original profile, it can feel off.
- Respect the Bones – Original layouts, ceiling heights, and floor plans exist for a reason. Resist the urge to over-modernize.
- Reuse When Possible – Salvaging original materials or sourcing reclaimed ones will help maintain that authentic feel.
Ready for more historic home insights? Check out this post for everything you should know about buying a historic home in DC.
Preservation is a Privilege
Old homes have quirks, surprises, and yes — a few frustrations in store. But they also have soul. When you approach a renovation with a mindset of stewardship instead of just style, you’re not just restoring a house; you’re keeping a piece of history alive.
So whether you’re hunting for old fireplace mantels in DC, applying for historic home restoration grants, or sourcing reclaimed tile for a powder room that’s seen a hundred years of guests — do it with care. Because when it comes to preserving character with your historic home renovation, every detail counts.
Looking to find a home with a story in DC? Together, let’s explore — the past (and your new future) are waiting. Let’s set up a time to talk — our team will be there every step of the way. Call 202.280.2060, or email connect@jennsmira.com.
Put Us To Work For You
Book a consultation with our team today.
