Design-Build Remodeling for Historic Homes in Phoenix and Beyond

Design-Build Remodeling for Historic Homes with Homework Remodels

Historic homes hold a special place in Phoenix’s architectural landscape. From the Spanish Colonial bungalows of the Willo Historic District to the stately homes of Encanto-Palmcroft and the Craftsman charm of F.Q. Story, these residences tell the stories of the city’s past. At Homework Remodels, we specialize in honoring those stories through thoughtful, respectful design-build remodeling for historic homes.

With our award-winning team and our proven Design-Build System, we guide homeowners through a seamless renovation process that preserves the character of their historic homes while enhancing comfort, functionality, and modern livability.

The Unique Challenges of Remodeling a Historic Home

Remodeling a historic home is different from a typical renovation. These homes often feature original materials, outdated systems, and design layouts that no longer serve today’s families. At the same time, they come with historic district guidelines, zoning restrictions, and preservation standards that must be respected.

Challenges may include:

• Outdated plumbing and electrical systems
• Plaster walls or structural settling
• Non-standard room layouts or low ceilings
• Restrictions on changes to façades or architectural details
• Matching historic materials and finishes
• Navigating city and historic preservation reviews

Without the right expertise, these challenges can result in delays, expensive surprises, or changes that unintentionally diminish a home’s historical value.

That’s where our design-build approach makes all the difference.

Why Design-Build Is Ideal for Historic Home Remodeling

Design-build remodeling unites design and construction under one experienced team. For historic homes, this integrated model ensures that every design decision is informed by practical buildability and preservation sensitivity.

At Homework Remodels, we bring more than 20 years of remodeling experience in Phoenix’s historic neighborhoods. Our process includes:

• Architectural sensitivity to historic styles and design details
• In-house design expertise from Master Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodelers
• Licensed contractors who understand vintage structures
• Deep familiarity with city and historic district guidelines
• Open communication and proactive planning

From idea to execution, we help you preserve your home’s historic charm while updating it for 21st-century living.

Our Step-by-Step Historic Home Design-Build System

1. Initial Consultation & Historic Home Evaluation

Every project begins with a personal consultation. We meet with you onsite to understand your goals, identify pain points, and evaluate the home’s structure, style, and historic significance.

If your home is located in a recognized historic district—such as Willo, Encanto-Palmcroft, Roosevelt, or F.Q. Story—we review the relevant design guidelines and city requirements early on.

We also listen carefully to your vision:
Do you want to restore the original features? Add modern functionality? Create a more open layout while preserving architectural charm?

We’ll help you explore what’s possible—and what’s smart for your home’s future.

2. Design Development with Historic Integrity

Our designers specialize in blending original details with modern comforts. Whether it’s custom cabinetry that complements 1920s millwork or a bathroom remodel that echoes a home’s original tilework, we design with reverence and creativity.

We provide:

• Measured drawings of your existing home
• Historically compatible floor plans
• 3D renderings to visualize changes
• Material samples and finish options
• Detailed product and fixture specifications

Throughout this phase, we align the design with your style, needs, budget, and any historic district approvals required.

3. Pre-Construction Planning & Permits

Before construction begins, we handle all permitting and approvals. This is especially important for homes in Phoenix’s historic overlay districts, where exterior changes often require review by city preservation staff or historic commissions.

Our preconstruction process includes:

• Engineering and structural review
• Permit and zoning submissions
• Review with historic preservation officials (if required)
• Product ordering and schedule planning

We act as your advocate with city officials to streamline the process and protect the integrity of your project.

4. Respectful, High-Quality Construction

When it’s time to build, our experienced construction team takes every precaution to protect your home. We understand how to work with old framing, preserve irreplaceable finishes, and bring outdated systems up to code with minimal disruption.

You’ll have a dedicated project manager, regular updates, and a clean, organized job site. We’ll treat your home—and its history—with the respect it deserves.

We specialize in:

• Matching historic millwork and trim
• Restoring original wood flooring or installing lookalikes
• Upgrading HVAC, plumbing, and electric systems
• Insulating and sealing older walls and attics
• Tuckpointing, masonry, and roofing restoration
• Reconfiguring layouts without losing architectural rhythm

5. Completion, Review, and Post-Project Support

Upon completion, we conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets our standards—and yours. We also provide warranty support and maintenance tips to help you care for your newly remodeled historic home.

With Homework Remodels, the relationship doesn’t end at the final nail. We’re here for the long haul, committed to our clients and the Phoenix communities we serve.

Learn about our Design-Build System that unites preconstruction planning, design, budgeting, and construction under one experienced team.

Common Historic Remodeling Projects We Handle

• Historic Kitchen Remodeling: Modern function with era-appropriate finishes
• Bathroom Updates in Older Homes: Accessibility, waterproofing, and charm
• Whole-Home Renovations: Seamless updates that respect original architecture
• Home Additions: Expanding without overpowering historic scale and design
• Exterior Preservation: Porches, siding, paint schemes, windows, and more

We’ve worked on numerous historic homes in Phoenix and the East Valley, and we understand the nuances of these timeless properties.

Serving Phoenix’s Most Beloved Historic Neighborhoods

Homework Remodels is proud to serve homeowners in Phoenix’s finest historic districts, including:

• Willo Historic District
• Encanto-Palmcroft
• Roosevelt Historic District
• Coronado Historic Neighborhood
• F.Q. Story
• Garfield Historic District
• Windsor Square and North Central Phoenix

Whether you’re restoring a Spanish Revival gem or updating a mid-century ranch, we’re your trusted partner for design-build remodeling that honors your home’s story.

Trust the Historic Remodeling Experts

Remodeling a historic home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Homework Remodels and our thoughtful design-build approach, you’ll get a remodeling experience that’s smooth, respectful, and tailored to your vision.

Preserve what makes your home special while making it work beautifully for today.

Schedule your design consultation today.