Should I Build or Renovate?

Congratulations! You’ve made it to one of the many places on the internet that can help you resolve your question of renovate or build?! Hopefully my insight as a New Orleans based architect will provide a unique perspective as you conduct your research into this topic. The four reasons below are selected in order of importance. Let’s dive in.

HISTORIC AREAS AND GOVERNING AUTHORITY RESTRICTIONS

The most important question to start: Am I located in a historic district? If so, this can have a significant impact on your ability to renovate your home’s exterior and sometimes your interior in many places. Here in New Orleans you’ll see many houses maintain the front walls (usually the first 10-15 ft) and the rest of the home will be brand new! We’ve even seen projects where one front wall is all that remains! The fact is, historic districts take their historic buildings very seriously. And they should!  They are considered part of the “scene” and if you’re located in a tourism driven city these districts are vital to the economy of the area.  They also serve as a library of historic building techniques and styles for future generations. Demolition in many of these places is a last resort, and chances are if your in the home, it’s not going to qualify. Most places only allow for demolition when a home is in Imminent Danger of Collapse (IDC). However, a home that is classified as IDC does make it a viable option for homeowners looking for property in a specific location. Just note, there are also restrictions in place for what you CAN build on the site regarding style, heights, and use. Keep this in mind as we move along to the next reason.

FAMILY HOME OR SENTIMENTALITY

I never under estimate the power of memories. We’ve completed many renovations that on paper made less sense financially than a new building. These same projects brought homeowner’s to tears upon completion. There’s a quality about maintaining an existing element of a home, whether it’s a fireplace, kid’s bedroom, or the old pantry that helps connect our new home to the old. One of the greatest comments I’ve ever received from a past client stated, “I wish my parents were alive to see what we’ve done to the place.” Many of my client’s love sharing stories of siblings and kid’s bedrooms, and even if the plan changes these locations it makes for wonderful conversation with guests. My wife and I love sharing stories of what the home looked like before we renovated, and we never lived in the home! Imagine the conversations that await should you stay in the home you love by providing a fresh look!

LOCATION

If you love where you’re located, renovate. This reason cannot be understated enough. As lovers of all thing’s city, let me share a story with you. My wife and I, when looking for a home had two locations in mind. A new build and a renovation. The new build was located near a bar, away from pedestrian friendly areas, and the renovation was not. To be honest, I reluctantly went along with the renovation. I’m putting this very lightly. Let’s fast forward four years later. Wow! I couldn’t have been more wrong. Did we forgo larger bedrooms and closets? Yes. Did we forgo more cabinetry and laundry rooms? Yes. But the truth is that we gained a world of activity outside of our door. One that didn’t exist in the other home. Choose what’s best for your life long term. Don’t tell yourself, it’s just fifteen minutes away or we’ll go on the weekends! The reality is that most activity on a daily basis happens within a half a mile radius from your home. That can be anything from a nearby family home to your favorite restaurant. Bottom line, choose wisely so you’ll love your home’s location for many years to come!

COST

I put this last on the list because, while important, the first three cannot be neglected. What if my past client would have sold their family home? He would have never had the opportunity to share in the memories of his childhood while adding new exciting memories with his grandkids. Personally, what if we would have bought that new home with all the shiny countertops instead of our moldy old home? We would miss out on small moments like walking to the post office or grabbing coffee. The questions are endless, and ultimately why I put this last on the list. I’ve seen many homeowners compromise or decide solely based on cost. Don’t make this your only consideration. Cost will be first on many other lists, and to a degree they’re not wrong. However, really consider what you can gain from your home past the financial discussion as to balance out your reasoning.

Traditionally, the cost to renovate is higher than new construction if you look at cost per square foot. This is due to the unexpected nature of existing homes. The benefit of renovating; however, is that you may qualify for certain tax credits depending on the age of your home. Also, depending on the scope of work you may also save money. Really explore what you need in your new space. Building technology has advanced quite a bit over the past century! Your old home may be an exceptional space with a few walls and doors removed! I’ve seen many homes transformed by moving around as little as one wall that provided more window light and views from other areas. Point being, you may be closer than you think, and a good architect can always help you along.

While this topic is a challenging one, I hope this helps move you along in your journey. I put these four reasons above from either personal or professional experience. I wish you the best as you embark on this challenging but amazing time in your present or future project.  Happy building….or renovating!