Historic Home Renovation FAQs

At our studio, we have four main principles that guide our design philosophy. One of those principles is respecting the existing structure and its history. Whenever our work involves a historic home, we’re always intentional with our selections, blending the well-loved with fresh companions.

Over the past several years, we’ve been privileged enough to work on many older home renovation projects, primarily within the Minneapolis-St.Paul area. The Twin Cities are filled with charming tree-lined neighborhoods featuring a mix of Tudor, Colonial, and Craftsman-style architecture. Our clients commission our design services and value our commitment to honoring the integrity of their homes while introducing new features for modern living.

Today, we’re answering some of the most frequently asked questions concerning historic home renovations. Learn more about our approach and view a few case studies of our previous work.

*Project Thomas Ave, Design: Yond Interiors, Photography:* *Amanda Birnie*

Q: My historic home lacks open spaces and storage. What can be done to improve its layout and functionality?

A: Whenever we aim to integrate modern functions and storage solutions in a historic home, we start by leading honest conversations with our clients about how to achieve that outcome. There are many ways to integrate additional storage (our most common client request!) or create larger spaces made for gathering. As designers, we must be open about the trade-offs involved and identify the top priorities.

We have various solutions for achieving our clients’ wishlists while maintaining the integrity of an old home. A couple of these solutions include custom cabinetry with floor-to-ceiling storage potential or custom furniture design fit to the exact specifications of the space. Reworking a home’s layout is a more involved option for some historic homes. However, our Sheridan Ave project is a great example of working within the existing footprint to add smart storage and additional space for entertaining.

*Project Mississippi River Blvd, Design: Yond Interiors, Photography:* *Erin Little*

Q: Any examples of historic home renovations within the Yond Interiors portfolio?

A: Absolutely! In fact, most of the projects we take on involve older homes. This is especially true in Minneapolis and St. Paul, where original 1920s and 1930s homes are quite common. Here are a few examples:

Sheridan Ave

This 19th-century Colonial in Minneapolis required updates for a young family. The home itself exuded so much character but needed attention in a few key areas. We started by refinishing the floors and made impactful updates on light switches, electrical receptacles, paint, and window treatments. We also made thoughtful furniture selections in the entryway, living, and dining rooms.

River Road

A 1930s Colonial in Minneapolis underwent an extensive remodel, including the kitchen and bathroom. The project also included adding a powder room, eat-in kitchen, and screened porch. Thoughtful space planning resulted in a home that marries historic charm with modern functionality.

Mississippi River Blvd

This 1920s Colonial in St Paul is an example of a whole home renovation and furnishings project. Our goal was to uncover the original charm, starting with a fresh color palette of earth tones with layers of textural mohairs, linens, and wool. Everything from the tile to the plumbing fixtures to the cabinetry hardware selections paid homage to the home's historic context.

Thomas Ave

Set in the Kenwood neighborhood of Minneapolis, this historic home involved renovations on the main bathrooms. We created a new primary suite, converted a closet to a fully functioning guest bath, and gave the powder bath a much-needed update.

*Project Sheridan Ave, Design: Yond Interiors, Photography:* *Amanda Birnie*

Q: How can I select pieces that will best suit a historic home?

A: It’s all about adding in key vintage pieces. They don’t necessarily have to be from the same time period, but integrating vintage furniture and accessories can go a long way. Scale is another key consideration, and thinking about how the pieces will interact with each other.

We also love adding panel moulding or trim to integrate the old and the new. Our goal is that the new design features don’t overpower but complement the space. We never want to diminish the character of a historic home, but instead, honor it through every selection.