2018 Irvington Home Tour

2018 Irvington Home Tour

by | Jul 11, 2018 | Awards, Historic

Craftsman Design and Renovation is proud to be a part of the 36th annual Irvington Home Tour with this beautiful Craftsman home.

Originally designed and built in 1910 by Robert Beat, this home had been neglected and was in need of some TLC! With careful design and planning, we were able to renovate and restore this home to its former glory. Located in the Irvington neighborhood, the largest historic district in Portland, it was an easy decision to showcase this Craftsman home for the tour. The Irvington Home tour boasts upwards of 800 visitors annually. The money raised from the tour funds grants that are given to neighborhood schools, meals on wheels, and many other historic preservation efforts and nonprofit charities.

Exterior Before

Exterior After

This home had remained largely untouched for the past 100 years with exception of the exterior. Once we removed the aluminum siding, the original siding and hidden architectural details were revealed which we restored and replicated where missing.

Inside all of the original wood working, plaster walls, windows and inlaid wood floors were restored. To our surprise and delight, the beautiful stained glass through out the home was still intact.

Living Room

The kitchen underwent the most extensive renovation. We removed an underused porch and butler’s pantry, and relocated the powder bathroom. This enabled us to expand the kitchen and add an eat in breakfast nook. The addition of French doors and transom windows above the original windows allowed for an abundance of natural light.

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

Powder Bathroom

Upstairs we turned the original sleeping porch into a stunning new guest suite bathroom and adjacent laundry room. The original clawfoot tub was resurfaced and painted adding the charm and character you would expect in a Craftsman home.

Sleeping Porch Before

Guest Suite Bathroom After

Maximizing storage and space in older homes is key. We used Dewils Fine Cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms for the clean lines and customization capabilities. This careful marrying of historic details with modern conveniences, creates a home that is both functional and timeless.

2000 – Discovering Architectural Treasure

2000 – Discovering Architectural Treasure

by | Aug 10, 2016 | About, Historic

Our relationship with the American Heritage Center takes off.  Like so many who treasure Portland and its historic buildings, we have benefitted tremendously from the AHC.  Besides furthering our company’s knowledge of Portland’s housing stock and architectural styles, this invaluable resource provided exposure for Craftsman Design’s expertise, introducing us to some of our most beloved clients and projects (see milestones for 2006, 2007 and 2011).   Wade ultimately served on the AHC board from 2003 to 2005.

Five Steps to a Successful Remodeling Project, Part Three

Five Steps to a Successful Remodeling Project, Part Three

by | Mar 20, 2015 | Tips

Step Three: Finding a Remodeler

In our last post about completing a successful remodeling project, we discussed deciding on the process, specifically hiring a design-bid-build or a design-build firm. Whichever route you go, you need to choose your remodeler wisely. It’s said that people spend more time shopping for a car than a remodeler. Considering the cost, both financial and emotional, it’s imperative to invest time in this step.

Elliott Kitchen After 1

Get bids from at least three remodelers, making sure they are as specific as possible and that you are comparing “apples to apples.” As discussed previously, some change orders are unforeseen and necessary; however, change orders can also be part of a deceptive bidding practice. Some remodelers intentionally keep their bids low by pricing with low-cost materials and fixtures, knowing that once construction begins, you will find them unacceptable and have little choice but to authorize and pay for upgrades. Ask about the estimating process to select a firm that will give you the most honest, accurate bid without a lot of after-the-fact upgrades.

Elliott Kitchen After 6

Get referrals from friends who have remodeled, go to the internet, read local publications, and contact trade organizations (e.g., ORA, NARI, NKBA and the HBA). Visit trade shows and seminars, and definitely check with the state’s Construction Contractors Board. Finally, interview the designer and contractor in person, preferably at their office, and then check their credentials and the references they provide.