Home renovations in historic districts must first obtain approval from local architectural review boards. This requires greater attention to project planning and the use of materials that are more expensive and faithful to the time. You may be allowed to do aesthetic renovations to a historic home that you purchase. However, there are likely local guidelines for the types of improvements you can make, the building materials you can use, and more.
Do not expect that they will allow you to make a complete change of image in modern styles. Starting from scratch with a new, modern home avoids the regulations that govern the remodeling of an existing historic structure. However, depending in particular on the age and historical importance of the home, it could trigger a different type of regulation. As such, buying and renovating homes designated as historic can be much more expensive than you would pay for a typical existing home.
These new guidelines have helped hundreds of homeowners update their homes to comply with historic regulations while preserving the authenticity of their communities. While buyers are attracted to the distinctive architecture and character of so many New Orleans homes, these older homes are often in need of renovation. All of this architectural and historical data can help you and your contractor come up with a remodeling plan that celebrates the character and charm of your home. However, it also requires a lot of work and money, especially when remodeling a home that has been designated as “historic” real estate.
New Orleans is famous for its architecture, from pre-war mansions and mid-century modern homes to iconic churches and historic buildings. The story behind your house offers a fascinating insight into the people who lived in it, as well as how your home fits into the larger story of your city. Regardless of how vacant land is available, it is normally possible to build new buildings in a historic district, but they are governed by the same types of design guidelines that control the renovation or remodeling of an existing building there. You may want to consider taking advantage of the capital in your current home and using those borrowed funds to help pay for the remodeling of your historic home.
This means that there are a number of special considerations to consider for historic renovation projects in certain neighborhoods in New Orleans, such as the French Quarter, Marigny, the Garden District and the Irish Canal, just to name a few. If you already have an old house and have reason to believe that it has historical importance, you may be able to make your house appear as “historic.”.
