Historic Restoration Services in Metairie, LA
Historic homes in Metairie tell the story of families, craftsmanship, and time. Many of these homes were built with materials and details that are no longer mass-produced today. Franklin Construction And Design provides HOME RESTORING in Metairie with a strong focus on historic restoration and traditional building methods.
Our work centers on protecting original character while making homes safe, functional, and livable for today. That means repairing what can be saved, rebuilding what must be replaced, and using custom millwork to match the original design. From older cottages near Metairie Road to long-standing homes closer to the lake, we help homeowners care for buildings that deserve thoughtful restoration.
Local Expertise in Historic Restoration
Franklin Construction And Design was built on a passion for historic homes and preservation work across the New Orleans area. Our background includes hands-on experience with older structures, traditional materials, and restoration-focused construction. Much of our work involves homes that require patience, planning, and respect for how they were originally built.
Metairie homes often fall into a unique space. Many were constructed during periods of growth when solid woodwork, plaster walls, and detailed trim were standard. We approach each project with the goal of keeping those features intact whenever possible. HOME RESTORING in Metairie is not about fast replacements. It is about careful repairs, accurate reproduction, and long-term durability.
Our process blends preservation, craftsmanship, and practical updates. Homes need modern systems to function well, but those systems should not erase original design. We focus on restoration that allows a house to age well while remaining comfortable and usable for daily life.
Understanding Historic Homes in Metairie
Historic homes in Metairie reflect several eras, including early suburban development, post-war expansion, and older rural properties that existed before modern subdivisions. These houses often include solid wood framing, handcrafted trim, tall ceilings, and layouts that differ from newer construction.
Over time, these homes face common challenges. Aging materials can weaken. Moisture can damage wood. Past repairs may not match the original structure. Code requirements change, which can complicate updates. Heat, humidity, and seasonal storms also place stress on older buildings.
Preserving original details matters because those elements define the home’s identity. Original millwork, doors, and trim give a house its scale and rhythm. When those features are removed or replaced incorrectly, the home loses much of its character. Restoration keeps the story intact while extending the life of the structure.
Custom Millwork for Historic Restoration
Custom millwork plays a central role in historic restoration work. Many original components in older Metairie homes are no longer available through modern suppliers. When trim, moldings, or wood features are damaged beyond repair, they must be recreated with care.
We replicate original trim profiles, moldings, and architectural details so replacements blend naturally with existing work. Doors, windows, and frames are restored or rebuilt to match original proportions. Staircases often require custom wood components to maintain safety while preserving design. Built-ins, cabinetry, and interior details are fabricated to fit the space rather than forcing modern sizes into historic layouts.
Matching wood species, scale, and craftsmanship is key. Every piece is designed to support the home’s original style. The goal is preservation, not modernization. Custom millwork allows the home to remain visually consistent while addressing structural or functional needs.
Full-Service Historic Restoration in Metairie
Historic restoration requires coordination across many parts of a home. Franklin Construction And Design provides HOME RESTORING in Metairie through a full-service approach that keeps preservation at the center of each project.
Structural repairs are handled with respect for original framing methods and materials. Interior and exterior wood restoration focuses on repair before replacement. When modern systems such as electrical or plumbing must be updated, they are integrated carefully to avoid damaging historic features. Walls, ceilings, and finishes are restored to maintain original proportions and details.
Finish carpentry ties everything together. Custom millwork ensures transitions feel natural and period-appropriate. The result is a home that functions safely while still feeling like the original structure. Restoration work should not feel patched together. It should feel intentional, durable, and consistent with the home’s history.
Neighborhoods With History in Metairie
Metairie is made up of neighborhoods with distinct histories and housing styles. Each area presents different restoration needs.
Old Metairie includes some of the area’s oldest homes, many built with strong wood detailing and traditional layouts. These houses often require careful millwork replication and moisture-focused repairs.
Metairie Road properties range from early residential homes to mid-century builds. Restoration here often involves preserving original trim, repairing aging wood, and adapting homes for modern living without altering exterior character.
Bucktown homes face unique challenges due to proximity to the lake. Flooding risk, humidity, and wind exposure make exterior restoration and wood protection especially important.
Airline Park and nearby areas include older family homes that benefit from interior restoration and custom carpentry work that respects original layouts while improving function.
What People Say about us
What's new in the industry
How to Choose the Right Millwork Style for Your Interior Design
Choosing the right millwork style is one of the most important design decisions you can make when shaping an interior. Custom millwork doesn’t just support functionality—it defines the character of a space. From subtle architectural details to statement-making built-ins, the right woodwork can elevate your interior and tie every design
Benefits of Custom Millwork vs. Stock Millwork
When planning a renovation or new build, the details matter just as much as the structure itself. One of the most important choices you’ll face is whether to use custom millwork or stock millwork. While both options serve a purpose, the differences between them can significantly impact the quality, functionality,
How Custom Millwork Adds Value to Historic New Orleans Properties
Historic homes in New Orleans are more than buildings—they are pieces of living history. From Creole cottages to grand townhouses, these properties carry architectural details that give them lasting character and cultural significance. Preserving that identity while meeting modern living standards requires thoughtful craftsmanship, and that’s where custom millwork plays
What Is Custom Millwork and Why It Elevates Your Space
Custom details are what transform a well-built structure into a truly memorable space. At Franklin Construction and Design, thoughtful design and precision craftsmanship come together to create interiors that feel intentional, refined, and timeless. One of the most impactful ways to achieve this level of quality is through custom millwork.
Popular Historic Window Styles in New Orleans Homes
In New Orleans, historic homes are celebrated for their character, charm, and cultural value. Among the most defining features of these homes are their windows. More than just functional openings for light and air, they reflect the craftsmanship, architecture, and traditions of the city’s past. At Franklin Construction & Design,
How to Protect Historic Windows During Hurricane Season
In New Orleans, the arrival of hurricane season is always a reminder of how vulnerable our homes can be to high winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall. For owners of historic homes, this risk is even more significant. Original wooden windows not only hold architectural value but are also key