Preserving History: the Art of Restoration
At TreHus, we are passionate about restoring historic homes. Every home has a unique story, and it is our honor to preserve that story for future generations. Our team ensures every detail is thoughtfully considered, balancing the home’s original character with modern needs.
Recently, TreHus completed the Uptown Historical Remodel, a two-story addition to a 1901 Colonial Revival Foursquare in Minneapolis. The rear of the house featured a poorly executed existing addition that did not align with the home’s original architecture, requiring careful planning and precise execution. We spoke with the project’s lead designer, Joe Dean, about how the team honored the home’s history while updating it for contemporary living.
“Creating new spaces while removing portions of the addition required a delicate balance,” Joe explained. Structural challenges were met with carefully considered solutions for modern mechanical systems, including air conditioning. “Commitment to appropriate forms was crucial when incorporating new structural elements.” These structural improvements enabled a more functional kitchen layout and an upper-level addition for the primary suite bath, a feature uncommon in homes of this era. The design aimed to replicate the home’s original massing to ensure the new addition blended seamlessly with the rest of the house. Joe added, “We focused on respecting the architectural principles of the original design while creating something that would fit modern lifestyles.”
To restore the home to its appropriate form, the team focused on recreating original design elements, such as the elegant eave details and distinct corner boards. All interior and exterior trim elements were recreated to match existing profiles, and we carefully selected solid brass hardware that mimicked original period hardware. Matching window styles ensured the seamless integration of modern elements while preserving the home’s historic charm. Joe concludes, “The key to a successful historic renovation is considering how the new space is added while respecting the architectural principles used in the original design.”
Historic restoration is more than renovation; it is a connection between past and present. “Elegant projects like this thrive when homeowners care about their home and neighborhood,” says Joe. “The result of this commitment benefits not only them but also the community by respecting and preserving the great architecture of the past.”
TreHus takes pride in preserving the character and integrity of historic homes. Each project allows the team to honor the history, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty of the spaces they touch.
If you would like to read more about this project, check out this feature article on Houzz.