what we care about

Historic Homes

Thoughtful updates that respect the soul of your home

Architecture focus

Historic homes deserve to be lived in—not just admired. We help you do both.

Historic homes come with quirks and charm—but also with challenges. Our goal is to preserve the story and character of your home while improving functionality, comfort, and performance for modern living.

We understand the nuances of old homes—from load-bearing mysteries to period-appropriate detailing. Our approach is careful, intentional, and always grounded in respect. Whether it’s restoring original features, opening floor plans for today’s way of living, or integrating updated systems, we ensure the home remains recognizably yours—just better.

what we bring to historic renovations:

  • Knowledge and resources of traditional building techniques and materials

  • Aesthetic sensitivity to period details and craftsmanship

  • Updates that preserve historic character and add modern function

  • Solutions to improve comfort and natural light

  • Navigation of local regulations and historic review boards

  • Architectural drawing of a building's section and elevation views, showing roof construction, wall details, and door framing.

    The details make all the difference

  • Front view of a two-story house with a brick walkway and a white porch with four pillars, black shutters, and landscaped bushes.

    Additions that blend seamlessly with the original style & structure

  • Front view of a modern brick house with two large windows, a wooden garage door, and a brick walkway leading to the entrance.

    Extensive experience in historic district constraints and the permit process

What Matters to Us
& Our Clients

  • A white sunroom with large windows and double glass doors, surrounded by a garden with plants, trees, and a stone pathway, on an autumn day.

    Climate-Smart Design

    A practical path to high-performance (i.e. comfortable) homes.

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  • A cozy bedroom in Alexandria, VA with a window, armchair, wooden nightstand, amp, and part of a dark wood four-poster bed with white bedding

    Aging-In-Place

    Design that grows with you, and allows you to stay in your home.

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  • A renovated white two-story split-level house with a dark roof, front porch, and green lawn surrounded by trees and bushes, under a partly cloudy sky.

    Our Approach

    We bring fresh ideas and a unique perspective to enhance the beauty, function, and feel of your space.

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“Our project was in the historic district of Old Town, Alexandria. Erin was very knowledgeable dealing with the BAR. She is very pleasant to work with and had a calming influence working with us and our general contractor. We would work with Erin again.”

brian K. & David T.
alexandria, virginia