How to Remodel Bathrooms in Historic Homes

Keeping an antique bathtub will preserve the character of the bathroom in your historic home.

Historic homes offer many appealing details, such as large, operable windows and beautiful wood trim. However, the bathrooms are often small and out of date. As the owner of a historic home, you may be ready to take on the project of remodeling the bathrooms. It can be a delicate process, especially if you are concerned about preserving the character of the space while still enjoying some modern amenities. A well-done historic bathroom remodel will improve your quality of life as well as increase the value of your home.

Things You'll Need

• Services of architect and contractor
• Antique or new plumbing fixtures
• Paint
• Cleaning supplies

Instructions

1. Gain extra space by expanding historic bathrooms. In some cases, a larger bathroom may be possible by moving a wall. Check to see if you can gain a few feet by incorporating a closet space into your bathroom or taking on part of another room. Consult a contractor to make sure the wall you want to move isn't structural.

2. Preserve historically significant features. If your bathroom floor is made of beautiful old hexagonal mosaic tiles or contains beautiful wood molding, invest a little elbow grease in repairing these defining characteristics. In most cases, it isn't feasible to replace these elements with modern equivalents, which are often far less superior in terms of craftsmanship.

3. Update plumbing fixtures. Many historic bathrooms were renovated in the '70s or '80s and feature older toilets and bathtubs that aren't water-efficient or even attractive by today's standards. Consider replacing these outdated fixtures with new, eco-friendly versions. If you are set on antique plumbing fixtures, visit an architectural salvage yard to find period-appropriate models.

4. Complete the bathroom remodeling project with a fresh layer of paint. Scrape excess old paint from the walls, millwork and wood trim. Grind them smooth with sandpaper while wearing a protective face mask. Prime and paint with a few fresh coats. Take the time to research the original paint colors within your home, or at least determine popular shades for the time period if you are aiming for a historically accurate renovation.

Tips & Warnings

• Thoroughly clean your bathroom before you begin your renovation. You may be surprised by which elements just need a layer of grime removed rather than having to be completely replaced.

• If your budget can accommodate it, hire an architect or interior designer with experience in historical restoration to advise you on the project.

• Hire professionals for complicated plumbing and electrical work if you aren't an expert yourself.

• Older homes may contain lead paint and lead pipes. Test the paint and pipes before you begin your renovation to determine whether they have lead.

References

• Old House Web: Updating Your Old Home's Bathroom