Aging Well

Updating for the Present
In an older home, the areas that typically require the most work are the kitchen, bathroom, and storage areas—often because the floor plan has to be updated. “Many old houses now have the 1960s and ’70s look in the kitchen,” Killa points out. “The kitchen can be brought back to its original state using custom craftsman-style cabinetry with inset doors and the shell-shaped handles common in the 1910s and ’20s.” Many homeowners break tradition in the kitchen and opt for stainless steel appliances and stone or concrete countertops rather than the wood countertops prevalent when the homes were built. “Retro appliances from the 1940s and ’50s have not caught on yet,” Killa says. But many homeowners stick with tradition when it comes to flooring. “Wood is the flooring of choice in restored kitchens,” Killa says. “Tile flooring is on its way out.” Occasionally, Killa adds, the back entry or laundry room will be done in linoleum or tile.

Sinks in the early and mid-1900s were often apron-front with tall backsplashes on which the faucet was mounted, says Jones. “Today we’re doing a lot of apron front sinks in stainless steel, cast iron, and ceramic,” he adds. “They are pretty popular in a traditional look.” The retro-looking appliances that happen to be popular today are also perfect for bathrooms in traditional homes. Pedestal sinks and stand-alone vanities are common choices in these homes. “Whirlpool tubs are fading,” Killa says. “Soaking tubs are more in demand.” Tiled walls, or 42-inch tile wainscoting, are also common restorations in the bath.  While storage is a perennial issue in old homes, remodelers can often borrow space from an adjacent room to enlarge a closet or bath. “People didn’t have the clothes they have today and they didn’t have all the equipment like vacuum cleaners to store,” says Amundson.