Here in the Phoenix area, we’re surrounded by some of the most architecturally rich neighborhoods in the Southwest. From the cozy, character-filled bungalows in Willo and F.Q. Story to the clean lines and open plans of Mid-Century Modern gems in Arcadia Lite or Marlen Grove, our city offers a rare mix of design eras—all worth preserving and updating with care.
At Homework Remodels, we specialize in both historic and mid-century remodeling. And while the end goal is always a livable, beautiful home, the approach is completely different depending on the era.
Let’s walk through how we think about remodeling these distinct styles.
It Starts with the Era
Historic homes in Phoenix typically date from the 1890s through the 1940s. These are the Craftsman bungalows, Spanish Revivals, Tudors, and early Ranch-style homes that give neighborhoods like Willo, Roosevelt, and Encanto-Palmcroft their charm. These homes were built with thick masonry walls, wood lath-and-plaster interiors, and a focus on detail—from original wood windows to decorative moldings and built-ins.
Historic Home Remodel in the Willo District
By contrast, Mid-Century Modern homes (built roughly between 1945 and 1975) reflect a completely different mindset. Think open floor plans, flat or low-pitched rooflines, post-and-beam construction, and a big emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. These homes are lighter, more minimal, and were designed for a new kind of post-war lifestyle—something you’ll see in neighborhoods like Marlen Grove, Marion Estates, and Paradise Gardens.
Mid-Century Modern Home Remodel
Different Eras, Different Goals
When remodeling a historic home, our job is to preserve its soul. That might mean restoring original windows, repairing plaster rather than replacing it, or carefully matching century-old tile. We often work within historic preservation guidelines to make sure updates don’t erase what makes the home special.
Mid-century homes require a lighter touch. Here, it’s about preserving the original intent—those open beams, clean lines, and natural materials—while bringing in modern comfort. You don’t want to overdo it and lose the essence of the home’s simplicity.
In both cases, we’re not just remodeling—we’re respecting the architecture and its story.
Let’s Talk Layouts
Historic houses tend to be more compartmentalized. Kitchens are often smaller, bathrooms are more limited, and rooms are more segmented. Part of our job is to gently open up those spaces for modern living—maybe by removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room, or expanding a primary suite—without compromising its character.
Mid-century houses already favor openness, but that doesn’t mean they’re always functional by today’s standards. Storage can be tight, and kitchens may not flow well for how people live now. Our job is to modernize those spaces—add storage, update cabinetry, rework the layout—without disturbing the lines, ceiling height, or overall aesthetic.
Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Remodel
And Then There’s Structure
The bones of these houses are vastly different. Historic homes are often built from masonry and wood lath, with thick plaster walls. They might need significant structural updates before any cosmetic work can begin—especially if we’re running new HVAC, electrical, or plumbing.
Mid-century houses, on the other hand, are usually built on slab foundations, with post-and-beam framing that allows for wide open spans. That’s great for space—but flat or low-pitch roofs can present challenges for things like insulation or drainage. We understand how to work with these systems to bring comfort and performance up to modern standards, without altering what makes these homes special.
When It’s Time to Add On
Often, our clients need more space—whether it’s a home office, a bigger kitchen, or just an extra bedroom. Additions are absolutely possible with both styles, but again, the strategy changes.
For historic houses, we’re careful to create additions that feel like they’ve always been there. That means matching rooflines, using similar materials, and keeping the street view intact. You don’t want the addition to shouting—you want it to whisper.
With mid-century houses, we take a more seamless, modern approach—extending low-slope roofs, continuing open ceilings, and integrating the addition with patios or breezeways so it still feels like part of the original design.
Interior Finishes: Charm vs. Minimalism
When we’re selecting finishes, we take our cues from the home’s origin. Historic homes love detail—custom woodwork, vintage tile, period lighting, and layered textures. They wear their charm proudly.
Bath Renovation in the Historic Neighborhood of Willo
Mid-century houses, on the other hand, are all about clean lines and thoughtful simplicity. We might go with slab-front cabinetry, warm walnut tones, terrazzo or minimalist tile, and built-in lighting that keeps the space feeling open and modern.
Mid-Century Modern Bath Remodel
Outdoor Space Matters, Too
Phoenix is built for indoor-outdoor living, and both styles reflect that—but in different ways.
Historic homes often feature porches, brick walkways, and gardens with curved paths. We’re careful to maintain that character while creating more usable space in the back or side yards.
Mid-century homes take it further. Outdoor living is a core part of the architecture, with large windows, patios, breezeways, and in some cases, stunning breeze block walls. Any addition or renovation should strengthen that connection to the outdoors, not block it.
Why Homework Remodels?
We’re not just builders—we’re architectural translators. Our team includes NARI Master Certified Remodelers and experts in both vintage and modern building techniques. Whether we’re restoring hand-plastered walls or working with post-and-beam engineering, we bring deep respect for the original design—and the skills to bring it into today.
Plus, with our unified design-build approach, everything stays aligned—from the first sketch to the final paint touch-up. It’s one team, one process, and one clear vision. Learn more about our Design-Build System that unites preconstruction planning, design, budgeting, and construction under one experienced team.
If you’re thinking about remodeling a historic or mid-century modern home, we’d love to help. Whether your goal is to restore, expand, modernize—or a mix of all three—we’ll make sure your home’s character shines through in every detail.