Historic Home Restoration in Snell Isle & Old Northeast

Owning a home in Snell Isle or Historic Old Northeast means owning a piece of St. Petersburg history. But bringing a 1920s bungalow or 1950s mid-century estate up to modern standards requires a delicate balance. You need a contractor who respects the original architecture but understands the necessity of modern functionality.

At CraftLine Remodeling, we specialize in the sensitive restoration and modernization of St. Pete’s most prestigious historic properties. We don’t just “flip” houses; we carefully update them, ensuring new additions blend seamlessly with the original character that makes these neighborhoods so desirable.

Specialized Services for Historic Homes

Kitchens that Respect the Era

Modern chef’s kitchens often clash with the cozy, segmented layouts of historic homes. We bridge that gap.

• The Challenge: Expanding small “galley” kitchens in 1920s homes without destroying original load-bearing walls or formal dining rooms.
• The Solution: We design custom cabinetry that mimics period-correct millwork (like inset doors and glass fronts) while integrating hidden modern appliances (Sub-Zero/Wolf) and professional-grade layouts.

Bathroom Modernization in Tight Spaces

Historic bathrooms in Old Northeast are notoriously small. We maximize every inch.

• Vintage Styling: We source high-end reproduction fixtures, hexagon mosaic tile, and clawfoot tubs that look original but function perfectly.
• Modern Waterproofing: Behind the vintage tile, we install state-of-the-art Schluter waterproofing systems to ensure your 100-year-old wood subfloors are protected for the next century.

Structural Restoration & “The Guts”

True luxury is invisible. Before we install marble, we address the hidden issues common in Snell Isle homes:

• Knob-and-Tube Replacement: Safely updating dangerous original wiring to meet modern code.
• Cast Iron Plumbing: Replacing failing cast iron pipes with modern PVC without destroying your original terrazzo or hardwood floors.
• Leveling: Correcting settling foundations in pier-and-beam bungalows.

Navigating the Historic Preservation Board

Renovating in a designated historic district requires more than just a building permit; it often requires a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA).

• We Know the Rules: We understand the City of St. Petersburg’s strict guidelines regarding window replacement, exterior paint colors, and porch enclosures.
• Matching Materials: We source specific materials—like barrel clay tiles for Mediterranean Revivals or cypress siding for Bungalows—to ensure your renovation passes inspection and maintains your property’s historic tax exemptions.

Why Trust CraftLine with Your History?

• Dust & Debris Control: We know that historic renovations create heavy dust (lath and plaster). We use hospital-grade HEPA air scrubbers and containment walls to protect your family and your antiques.
• Engineering Expertise: Opening up walls in a 1925 hollow-clay-tile home is dangerous for an amateur. Our structural engineers design steel beam reinforcements that allow for open-concept living without compromising structural integrity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open up the floor plan of my historic bungalow?

Yes, but it must be done carefully. We frequently remove non-original walls that were added in the 70s or 80s to restore the flow, or we use “cased openings” (large archways) to connect rooms while keeping the historic definition of the space.

Do you restore original wood windows?

We believe in preservation first. Whenever possible, we restore original sash weights and glass. If replacement is necessary for hurricane safety, we source high-impact windows that are architecturally accurate replicas approved by the Preservation Board.

How long does a historic renovation take?

Due to the complexity of “uncovering surprises” behind old walls and the detailed permitting process, these projects typically take 20% longer than standard new construction. We build this buffer into your timeline upfront so expectations are realistic.

Preserve the charm. Upgrade the lifestyle.

Contact CraftLine Remodeling for a consultation on your Snell Isle or Old Northeast property.

Serving: Snell Isle, Historic Old Northeast, Crescent Lake, and Grenada Terrace.