Historic Home Restoration.

A historic restoration is a conversation between what the home was and what it must continue to be. Forest Heart Builders restores architecturally significant homes with period-correct materials, historical building methods, and the patience that this kind of work demands.

What a Historic Restoration Involves

Documentary research understanding the original architect's intent, the original construction method, and the home's evolution over time.
Material salvage sourcing period-correct hardware, lighting, flooring, and trim from architectural-salvage yards and specialty mills.
Conservation versus restoration knowing when to stabilize an original element and when to replace with a period-correct equivalent.
Modern systems integrated invisibly bringing MEP up to current standard without disturbing visible historic fabric.
Landmarks-commission coordination preparing certificate-of-appropriateness documentation where required.

FAQ Historic Restoration

What qualifies a home as historically significant?

Three categories. First homes individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Second homes in a designated local historic district. Third homes that, while not formally designated, were designed by a significant architect or represent a significant style in a meaningful way. Forest Heart Builders restores homes in all three categories.

Can I add modern features to a historic home?

Usually and the most successful historic restorations integrate modern conveniences invisibly. The principle is that visible historic fabric is preserved; everything new is added in a way that does not disturb what is original. A historic home can have radiant floors, smart-home automation, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator provided those systems are installed without scarring the original architecture.

Do you do historic restoration outside designated landmark districts?

Yes. Many of the most architecturally significant homes in the Chicago area are not formally designated but still warrant period-correct restoration. The discipline is the same the paperwork is simpler.