Historic homes are more than just places to live—they’re physical links to the past, built with craftsmanship and design that reflect a city’s identity. In New Orleans, where architecture tells the story of diverse cultural influences, preserving these homes means protecting pieces of history. At Franklin Construction and Design, we specialize in home restoring in New Orleans, with a focus on reviving the key architectural features that define these treasured spaces.
Original Hardwood Flooring
One of the most sought-after elements in historic homes is the original hardwood flooring. These floors are often made from heart pine, oak, or cypress—woods that are more durable and richly grained than many modern alternatives. Time adds character to them, creating a patina that can’t be replicated.
We take great care in restoring these floors, whether it involves refinishing, replacing damaged planks with reclaimed wood, or re-staining to match the original tone. Preserving the original flooring maintains not only the beauty of the home, but also its authenticity.
Intricate Millwork and Molding
From elaborate crown molding and baseboards to handcrafted door casings and ceiling medallions, historic millwork brings depth and artistry to a space. These details were often carved by hand and reflect the architectural style of the era—whether it’s Greek Revival, Italianate, or Victorian.
At Franklin Construction and Design, we restore these elements with precision, often replicating damaged pieces using traditional techniques. In many cases, this millwork is what sets a historic home apart, making its restoration a top priority.
Fireplace Mantels and Surrounds
Fireplaces in historic homes were more than functional—they were focal points, often adorned with carved mantels, decorative tile, or cast iron inserts. Even when no longer used for heating, these features remain iconic elements of the home’s interior.
Our team restores original fireplace mantels and surrounds, reinforcing their structure and bringing out the fine detailing that gives them character. We also help modernize these features with care, such as adding safe gas inserts while maintaining their historic appearance.
Original Windows and Doors
The windows and doors in historic homes are often custom-sized and made from old-growth wood. Many still have wavy glass, original hardware, and deep casings that reflect the home’s time period. While modern replacements may be more energy efficient, they rarely match the craftsmanship of the originals.
That’s why we prioritize repairing and weatherproofing original windows and doors whenever possible. Our approach to window restoration includes reglazing, sealing, and preserving sash cords and weights. This allows homeowners to retain the charm of historic design while improving functionality.
Decorative Ironwork
Wrought iron railings, balconies, and fences are defining features of New Orleans architecture, especially in neighborhoods like the French Quarter or Faubourg Marigny. These ornate details, often handmade, give historic homes their signature elegance.
Over time, ironwork can rust, loosen, or break. We restore these elements through careful cleaning, welding, and repainting—often working with skilled blacksmiths to replicate missing sections. Keeping these exterior features intact plays a vital role in maintaining curb appeal and historical integrity.
Exposed Brick and Plaster Walls
Many historic homes in New Orleans were built using soft-fired brick and finished with lime-based plaster, which allows walls to breathe and respond to the humid climate. Modern paints and drywall often seal in moisture, leading to long-term damage.
When restoring these homes, we work to preserve or re-expose original brickwork and use appropriate materials that respect the building’s structure. Whether it’s repointing brick with the correct mortar mix or patching original plaster walls, our team ensures that updates enhance the home without compromising its original makeup.
Historic Staircases and Railings
Staircases in historic homes are often handmade, featuring carved newel posts, wooden balusters, and elegant curves. These structures can become loose or worn with time, but their visual and structural role in the home is significant.
We carefully restore staircases to maintain their integrity, reinforcing support systems while refinishing treads and railings. The goal is to keep these architectural centerpieces both safe and striking.
Conclusion
Preserving architectural details is at the heart of every historic renovation we take on. Each restored element—whether it’s millwork, flooring, or ironwork—helps maintain the home’s unique story and craftsmanship. If you’re planning home restoring in New Orleans, we are here to help you honor the past while updating for the future.
Let’s bring your historic home back to life—get in touch with Franklin Construction and Design to start your restoration today.