In order to preserve a home’s historic integrity, but make it modern and more appealing to a buyer interested in fine, Victorian homes – ModVic follows 12 simple rules:

1. Research the home’s architectural origins, owners and surroundings to better understand how the home has evolved to its present state. Create a home history booklet for the new owner and for the town’s historical society. Develop drawings and blue prints for the restoration.
2. Restore (style, material, design) with period integrity. All of the Home’s elements should convey a feeling of charm, warmth and imagination.
3. Use as much natural and local materials as possible (stone, brick, wood, cast iron etc.) as appropriate to the period.
4. Restore and reuse most period details in the interior and exterior of the home (i.e. moldings, trim, sashes, windows, newels, door hardware, mantel, chimney, etc.)
5. Reproduce some architectural elements that no longer exist in the home, but were present when the home was built (as found through our research and/or detective work within the home).
6. Add interesting architectural salvaged items (interior and exterior) that are appropriate to the period.
7. Completely modernize the home with all new electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems. Employ smart home, media room and wireless Internet technology throughout the home.
8. Renovate with period sympathetic additions (i.e. garages and porches)
9. Sensitively reconfigure floor plans and/or expand the home’s living area square footage if needed for modern family living.
10. Renovate kitchen and bathrooms in period sensitive style, possibly using restored, original fixtures and repurposing for modern life and use. Install new, modern appliances in the kitchen. Install new period sensitive bathroom fixtures (can be reproductions, but in period style, i.e. high tank, pull chain).
11. Hire ethical trades people/consultants within the town and surrounding area of the restoration to bring more passion to the project.
12. Document the restoration process through pictures (before and afters) diaries, blogs and website.

For further information, or to schedule a personal visit of a property with Bruce and Melanie Rosenbaum please call 781-784-0250 or email bruce@modvic.com. Thanks for visiting!