Preserving the Past While Building the Future: A Thoughtful Home Remodel in San Francisco
When our clients reached out to us about remodeling their 1920s home, their request was simple but meaningful: “We want to update our space, but we don’t want to lose the charm that made us fall in love with it in the first place.”
It’s a sentiment we completely understand—and one we hold close in every project. A home’s history, its quirks, and its original details are often what make it truly special. In this case, it was the elegant arched plaster ceilings in the dining room and the beautifully crafted original trim that the homeowners couldn’t imagine parting with. And honestly, neither could we.
Our Approach: Gentle Hands, Thoughtful Planning
Our team took a careful and strategic approach to honor their wishes while modernizing the space. First, we scored the existing plaster to precisely outline the areas we wanted to preserve. From there, we removed the lower portions that needed updating—giving us the access we needed to rework the walls—without disturbing the delicate curves and detailing above.
Once the lower portions were open, we installed new drywall, paying close attention to how the new material would meet and blend with the original surfaces. This kind of tie-in work requires precision and a deep respect for craftsmanship, which we take a lot of pride in. Seamless transitions between old and new aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about telling a consistent story.
The Result: A Modern Update That Keeps the Soul of the Home Intact
The final result was a refreshed and functional space that felt modern and clean while keeping its soul intact. The arched plaster ceilings remained untouched and as stunning as ever, and the original trims framed the rooms with a timeless elegance.
At MD Buildworks, we believe remodeling isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about building on it.
If you’re thinking about remodeling your home but want to keep the features that make it special, we’d love to help. Reach out and let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life—while honoring what makes your home yours.
