HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL RENOVATION | Baltimore, Md
- Jason
- Sep 2, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 23
A Dialogue Between Past and Performance
The Challenge:
Our clients came to us with a challenge that sits at the very heart of renovating Baltimore's historic homes: how to create a highly energy-efficient, modern living space while preserving the irreplaceable character of a grand Reservoir Hill residence.. They were drawn to the high performance of Passive House standards but faced the realities of historic preservation guidelines, where modern solutions like triple-pane windows can conflict with the requirements for historic tax credits . The journey was to find the perfect balance between these competing goals.
The FADE Approach:
Our FADE philosophy was essential in navigating this complex puzzle. The "E" for Education was our starting point. We guided the clients through a transparent process, exploring the trade-offs between budget, historic authenticity, and energy optimization. Our role was to provide a realistic path forward, prioritizing key performance upgrades while respecting the home's soul. As Architects, we developed a comprehensive renovation plan that completely reimagined the interior flow for modern life while celebrating historic details. This involved detailed energy analysis to create the most efficient building envelope possible within the existing constraints, targeting significant R-values for the walls and roof.
The Outcome:
The result is a stunning transformation that successfully balances two worlds. The home, while not a certified Passive House, is a model of energy-optimized historic preservation. The grand staircase, original wood floors, and beautiful bay windows have been meticulously restored, while the new open-plan kitchen and modern living spaces provide the functionality the clients desired. Through a journey of education and collaborative decision-making, we achieved a home that is not only beautiful and historic but also comfortable, healthy, and dramatically more efficient for the future.
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