Period Restoration
Quite a few of Ottawa and area returning clients live in historical homes that have extraordinary potential. They often imagine their homes at the height of the Victorian era style, and ask us to help recreate the original charm and beauty of their interiors.
In many cases, our intervention extends to the restoration of plasterwork, woodworking, and glass, as many of the homes in Ottawa and neighbouring town were subject to abuse and neglect, and many lost their original architecture features.
When it comes to the restoration of old Victorian homes, we often seek historical profiles to recreate crown moldings and celling medallions. We seek out original, period appropriate fireplace mantels, we hunt for original light fixtures, we install woodwork in doorways, window casings, baseboards, archways, and wainscoting. We also build doors to replicate ones that already exist in the home, or take our inspiration from ones found in neighbouring homes.
Tim will also make other recommendations such as installing carpets, window treatments, wallpaper, etc. Winges Carpentry will do all of this with attention to historical accuracy, perfected through many years of study of historical photographs, decorating catalogs, interior of house museums, and our own experience.
Is Period Restoration Right for my Home?
Period restoration service may be the right option for your home if you value preserving its original architectural style and features, especially if the home boasts historical character, is in respectable condition, and you are willing to invest in specialized service and materials to maintain its authenticity: however, its very important to asses the condition of your home, consider your budget, and consult professionals to determine if full restoration is the best option or if a more modern adaption might be better suited to your needs and lifestyle.
Key Factors to Consider
- Historic Significance: Does your home have notable historical value or architectural merit?
- Condition of the Home: Are most of the original features still intact and in good condition, or are significant repairs needed?
- Local Regulations: Are there any restrictions or guidelines in your area regarding historic home restoration?
- Personal Preferences: Do you genuinely appreciate the original style and want to maintain its character?
- Budget: Can you afford the specialized materials and labor required for a faithful restoration?
When Period Restoration Might be a Good Choice
- Intact original features: If your home still has most of its original woodwork, flooring, moldings, windows, and doors in good condition.
- Desire to Maintain Historical Accuracy: If you want to preserve the house’s original design and aesthetics as closely as possible.
- Potential for Increased Property Value: In some areas, a well-restored historic home can command a higher market value.
When a Different Approach Might be Better
- Extensive Damage: If a full restoration would be too costly for your budget.
- Modern Lifestyle Needs:If you need to significantly alter the layout or add modern amenities that would clash with the period style.
- Budget Constraints: If a full restoration would be too costly for your budget.
Important Steps before Starting
- Professional Assessment: Hire a contractor experienced in historic home restoration to evaluate your home’s condition and identify any potential issues.
- Research the Period: Learn about the architectural style of your home and what features are considered typical for that era.
- Consult local authorities: Check if your home is listed as a historic landmark and understand any local regulations regarding alterations.
- Consider a mix of old and new:: If necessary, incorporate modern updates while still respecting the overall period aesthetic.
Renovations in Ottawa
Welcome to Ottawa, Canada’s capital, located in the east of southern Ontario, near Montreal and in close proximity to the U.S. border. Here you will find grand Victorian architecture, museums, the National Gallery of Canada and collections of indigenous and other Canadian art. Winges Carpentry is pleased to provide master-carpenter renovation services in Ottawa. If you would like to learn more about our services in this region, don’t hesitate to click below.