Owning a historic property is a unique and enriching experience. However, the desire to make this house your home comes with the responsibility of preserving its unique charm. Before beginning renovations on a historic home, iRemodel Home Renovations is here to consult and navigate you through what a successful Custom Heritage/Historic House Renovation project looks like.
Before we begin renovation planning together, read through this guideline to better understand the balance between modernization and keeping the heritage in a historic home.
The 10 Standards of Renovating Historic Properties
These standards provide a framework for the preservation, rehabilitation, and renovation of historic properties, ensuring that the process respects the historical significance and character of the structures. The goal is to maintain a delicate equilibrium between preserving the past and meeting the needs of the present and future.
- Used For Historic Purpose Or New Use That Requires Minimal Change. The preservation journey begins with keeping the historic purpose or implementing a new use with minimal changes. This standard emphasizes maintaining the architectural fabric of a historic district. For example, a single-family residence could be turned into a bed and breakfast.
- Historic Character Preserved: Safeguarding and preserving the historic character is essential. While modifications for new uses are allowed, significant characteristics such as arched windows, terracotta roof tiles, or distinctive columns should be kept.
- Additions Must be Authentic to the Historical Era. Acknowledge each property as a tangible record of its time, place, and use. Avoid introducing elements that create a false sense of historical development.
- Retain Historic Changes. Recognize that most properties undergo changes over time, and those changes acquiring historic significance should be retained. Consult with the appropriate commission before altering or removing elements.
- Preserve Distinctive Features. This may prioritize preserving original craftsmanship over meeting modern code requirements.
- Repair over Replace. Deteriorated historic features should be repaired rather than replaced. When replacement is inevitable, the new feature must match the old in design, colour, texture, and other visual qualities.
- Gentle Treatment. Avoid harsh chemical or physical treatments that may damage historic materials. Opt for gentle means of surface cleaning, preserving the structural integrity of the historic elements.
- Archeological Protection. Recognize the significance of archeological resources during renovations. If resources must be disturbed, undertake mitigation measures and involve archeologists to preserve artifacts.
- Differentiated New Work. Contemporary design can coexist with historic features if it’s differentiated from the old, ensuring compatibility with the size, scale, and architectural features of the original property.
- Future Preservation. New additions and constructions should be created so if they are removed in the future, they should leave the essential form and integrity of the historic property unimpaired.
How Our Renovation Team Can Help
iRemodel Home Renovations is dedicated to preserving Toronto’s architectural heritage. As a professional custom home builder in Toronto, you can trust our team to guide you through the intricate journey of renovating and safeguarding a historic property. Contact our experts today at (416) 825-2542 to begin your consultation.