Colorado Springs is rich with history—and so are its homes. From charming bungalows and Craftsman styles to early 20th-century classics, historic homes offer character, craftsmanship, and a sense of story you simply can’t recreate. But while these homes are beautiful, many weren’t designed for modern living.
As we kick off a new year of Improving Homes, our focus is remodeling with purpose—for better function, comfort, health, and safety. And when it comes to historic homes, the goal isn’t to erase the past. It’s to honor the charm while upgrading the way the home lives today.
Understanding the Historical Significance
Before any remodeling begins, it’s important to understand what makes your home historically special. Researching the original design, materials, and any changes made over time helps guide thoughtful decisions.
Working with an experienced remodeler makes all the difference. The right team can help balance modern needs with historic authenticity, ensuring updates enhance your lifestyle while preserving the home’s integrity.
What to Keep: Preserving Character & Craftsmanship
Historic homes shine because of their details. These are the elements worth celebrating and preserving whenever possible:
✨ Architectural Features
Intricate moldings, original trim, arched doorways, antique fireplaces, and built-in cabinetry define a home’s character. These features should be restored, highlighted, and protected whenever feasible.
✨ Original Floors, Windows & Mantels
Hardwood floors, classic window designs, and original mantels bring warmth and authenticity. Refinishing or restoring these elements can breathe new life into them—often with improved efficiency and durability.
✨ Quality Materials
Older homes were built with craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Natural materials like wood, stone, and brick are worth preserving whenever possible.
If restoration isn’t an option, carefully selected replacements that echo the original style help maintain the home’s historic feel.
What to Update: Modern Comfort Without Compromise
Thoughtful updates are what make a historic home comfortable, functional, and livable for today’s homeowners.
🏡 Opening Up the Home—Thoughtfully
Many historic homes have smaller, closed-off rooms. Strategic wall openings, wider doorways, or pass-throughs can:
- Improve flow and natural light
- Create better connections between kitchen, dining, and living areas
- Maintain architectural integrity without forcing a modern layout
🧺 Storage That Blends In
Historic homes weren’t built with today’s storage needs in mind. Custom solutions can make a huge difference:
- Pantry storage designed to match the home’s style
- Entryway or mudroom storage added discreetly
- Bathroom storage that’s functional but timeless
🚿 Updated Kitchens & Bathrooms
Modern kitchens and baths are often at the top of the wish list—adding value while coexisting with historic charm.
- Cabinet styles inspired by the home’s era
- Timeless finishes instead of overly trendy ones
- Modern plumbing, electrical, and appliances hidden behind classic design
The result is a space that works beautifully without feeling out of place.
♿ Accessibility & Safety Improvements
Modernizing a historic home also means making it safer and easier to live in:
- Improved lighting for visibility
- Curbless showers with classic tile designs
- Wider doorways and better circulation
- Flooring choices that reduce slip hazards
These upgrades enhance daily life now and help homeowners stay in their homes longer.
Sustainability in Historic Renovations
Updating a historic home is also an opportunity to improve sustainability and efficiency—without sacrificing charm.
🌿 Energy-efficient insulation
🌿 Improved ventilation and air quality
🌿 Updated windows that match original styles
🌿 Eco-friendly materials
With the right approach, you can significantly reduce your home’s energy use while keeping its historic soul intact.
Respecting the Neighborhood & Community
Historic renovations don’t just affect one home—they impact the surrounding community. Remodeling with respect means:
- Aligning with neighborhood architectural styles
- Understanding local guidelines or historic districts
- Preserving the character that makes Colorado Springs neighborhoods so special
Engaging with local preservation resources and working with knowledgeable professionals helps ensure your remodel enhances both your home and the community around it.
Why Working with the Right Professionals Matters
Historic renovations come with unique challenges—from preserving architectural integrity to meeting modern building codes. Collaborating with professionals experienced in historic remodeling ensures:
- Design decisions feel intentional, not forced
- Updates respect the home’s heritage
- Modern systems are integrated seamlessly
- The process is smoother from start to finish
Let’s Start a Conversation
Blending modern upgrades into a historic home requires a thoughtful, experienced approach—one that respects the past while embracing the present.
At DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of the Pikes Peak Region, we specialize in helping homeowners reimagine historic spaces with modern comfort, improved function, and lasting beauty. Whether you’re updating a kitchen, improving accessibility, or enhancing efficiency, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call us at 719-636-2444 or visit Start A Conversation
Enhancing lives. Improving homes. Respecting history while designing for the future.
