What’s The Best Choice?
Living in your Philadelphia rowhome is one of the best parts of being a Philly native. The history of these buildings and their urban location make them not only a beautiful option but a functional choice. And their unique style and heritage are part of what makes remodeling your Philly Rowhome seem like an overwhelming challenge.
To lessen the load and make the process simpler, a lot of people might choose to renovate instead. But renovation can also be a tricky process, as working within an existing layout instead of redesigning it can land you in some dicey situations.
But the special nature of Philly rowhomes is undeniable, and their compact layouts and aging features often call for updates. When it comes to breathing new life into your Philly rowhome, the decision between renovating and remodeling can be a tough one. Let’s consider some of the pros and cons of each approach to help you make the right choice for your beloved home.
Renovating vs. Remodeling: What’s the Difference?
The difference between remodeling and renovation isn’t always clear. The biggest difference is that remodeling is a complete overhaul of your home’s design. A renovation focuses just on updates and improvements.
Here are more specifics on what each route includes:
- Renovating focuses on updating and improving existing features in your rowhome. Think of it like a refresh – new kitchen cabinets, a modern bathroom vanity, or refinished hardwood floors can all come together to give your home a makeover. You’re essentially enhancing what’s already there without altering the structure.
- Remodeling is a more extensive undertaking. It might involve knocking down walls to create an open floor plan, adding a second story, or even digging out a basement. Remodeling changes the very bones of your home. At first, this might seem a bit intimidating, but a remodel offers a lot of possibilities that a renovation won’t.
The Case for Renovating
Renovation comes with some great advantages. Let’s dig into a few:
- Preserving Charm: Part of what makes Philly rowhomes so great is their individual character and history. They come in a lot of different shapes and sizes – from the affordable Trinity House to a more traditional brownstone. But no matter the style, rowhomes are valuable pieces of Philadelphia history. Renovating allows you to retain the historic details that make rowhomes so unique – original moldings, exposed brick, etc. – while still enjoying modern comforts.
- Faster Completion: Renovations tend to be quicker than remodels. Fewer permits and surprises may end up saving you time. However, keep in mind that a renovation may also produce unexpected design challenges. Older layouts may not work well with modern updates.
- Less Disruption: Staying in your rowhome through a remodel can provide more significant hurdles to everyday living. Renovations typically take up less space and are easier to “live around.” So with a renovation, you’re less likely to be displaced from your living space for extended periods.
The Upside of Remodeling
While remodeling can be a bigger investment, it can sometimes be the better deal for several reasons::
- Customization: Want a dream kitchen that opens onto a spacious living room? Need an extra bedroom? Remodeling gives you the freedom to reimagine your space entirely. This also means that you get to maximize your space, which can come at a premium in rowhomes.
- Modernization: Modernization is a key goal of renovation, yes. But with remodels, there’s more flexibility. Older rowhomes sometimes lack a lot of modern conveniences. Remodeling lets you add those features seamlessly into an entirely new layout – think upgraded appliances, improved plumbing, and energy-efficient windows and doors that completely change your home’s function and appearance.
- Increased Value: A well-executed remodel can significantly boost your home’s value. This is especially appealing if you’re considering selling down the line.
- Energy Efficiency: Taking advantage of a remodel to upgrade insulation, HVAC systems, and appliances can lead to lower utility bills and a greener home.
Factors to Weigh in Your Decision
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific circumstances:
- Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford. Extensive renovations can sometimes edge close to the cost of a remodel.
- Goals: Are you happy with the layout, or do you crave a more open, modern feel?
- Historic District Regulations: If your rowhome is in an historic district, there may be limitations on exterior modifications, which can impact remodeling options.
- Timeframe: If you need to complete your project quickly, renovating is likely the faster route.
Remodeling your Philly rowhome can be a great experience with American Home Concepts. If you’re not sure where to get started, we typically suggest a kitchen or bathroom remodel for best results.
Examples: Renovating and Remodeling in Action
- Renovating: New appliances, updated cabinets, and sleek countertops are great examples of a solid renovation. But renovations can also open doorways to more luxury, such as updating your bathroom with a modern vanity, stylish tile, and a sleek shower head to give it a more spa-like feel.
- Remodeling: Consider exploring new floor plans, such as an airy, open-concept kitchen and living area. Or consider finishing your basement to create a cozy family room, home office, or guest suite. One of the best things about a remodel is that your imagination can take you where you want to go.
Making the Right Call for Your Philly Rowhome
Whether you opt for a revitalizing renovation or a transformative remodel, investing in your Philly rowhome is a smart move. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each approach, consider your budget and goals, and consult with experienced professionals.
If you’re worried about prices, both a remodel and renovation can be budget-friendly – it all depends on what you’re looking for. And if you don’t know where you’d like to focus, that’s ok – we offer a free, in-home estimate where we talk you through your options.
Remember: the best choice is the one that aligns with your vision for your home and enhances your quality of life.
