Atlanta is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and enduring Craftsman bungalows, particularly in neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, and Decatur. These homes, built in the early 20th century, are defined by their emphasis on natural materials, honest construction, and intricate details like deep eaves, tapered columns, and built-in cabinetry.
A successful Craftsman Home Remodeling Atlanta project requires a deep respect for this architectural heritage. The goal is not to erase the past but to update the structure and systems to meet modern standards while meticulously preserving craftsman character renovation details.
At Varilko Remodeling, we specialize in the art of the Craftsman renovation, blending historical accuracy with contemporary function.
1. Preserving the Exterior and Curb Appeal
The exterior of a Craftsman home is its defining feature. Any changes must maintain its integrity.
- Porch Restoration: The deep, covered front porch is the hallmark of the Craftsman style. Therefore, a craftsman porch restoration Atlanta project often involves repairing or replacing the low-slung roof, wide stone or brick piers, and the thick, tapered columns.
- Siding and Trim: We restore or replace siding using period-appropriate materials, such as clapboard, cedar shingles, or shingle siding, often painting the trim and siding in contrasting colors to highlight the home’s low-pitched roof and wide eaves.
- Window Integrity: We preserve original multi-pane windows or replace them with high-efficiency, historically accurate replacements. Crucially, we ensure new windows match the original divided light pattern.
2. Renovating the Interior: Built-ins and Trim
The interior of the Craftsman home is characterized by natural wood, simple, clean lines, and integrated furniture.
- Built-in Cabinetry: Craftsman homes often feature built-in seating (window seats), bookcases, and buffets. Consequently, these elements are the heart of the style. We prioritize sanding, staining, and restoring these original built-ins, enhancing their functionality with modern hardware while keeping their original profile.
- Woodwork and Trim: The most recognizable detail is the extensive, substantial wood trim around doors and windows. In fact, we ensure any new trim added during an expansion or kitchen update perfectly matches the original profile, usually simple, wide, and flat.
- Fireplace Focus: The central fireplace, often surrounded by built-in bookcases and simple tile, should remain a focal point.
3. Modernizing the Kitchen and Bath (Updating Craftsman While Keeping Charm)
The biggest challenge is bringing the kitchen and bathrooms—originally small and utilitarian—into the 21st century.
- Craftsman Style Kitchen Remodel Ideas: We open the space to the dining room, but we keep the spirit of the Craftsman era alive. For example, we use shaker-style cabinetry (or flat-panel if the home is later Prairie-style), classic subway tile backsplashes, and natural materials like soapstone or butcher block countertops.
- Bathroom Finishes: For baths, we recommend classic, durable materials. This includes pedestal sinks, hexagonal or penny tile floors, and subway tile shower surrounds, often paired with elegant oil-rubbed bronze or chrome fixtures.
- Lighting: We wire for modern recessed LED lighting and under-cabinet lighting, however, we install fixtures like schoolhouse pendants and simple lantern-style sconces to maintain the historical look.
4. Addressing Code and Systems
When updating craftsman while keeping charm, you must address outdated systems for safety and efficiency.
- Systems Upgrade: Like all historic home renovations, we must upgrade the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems for safety and compliance. Therefore, we discreetly integrate modern systems without disturbing the visible character (e.g., hiding new ducts inside original closets).
- Insulation: Improving wall and attic insulation is essential for energy efficiency in these older homes.
Ready to Enhance Your Craftsman Home?
A Craftsman Home Remodeling Atlanta project is a labor of love that increases both value and livability. Varilko Remodeling possesses the technical skill and historical sensitivity to ensure your renovation is authentic and enduring.
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