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Archive for the ‘Historical Renovations’ Category
Thursday, March 15th, 2012
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New exhibit explores architects’ work to
update and preserve antique homes
When Jeff Titus bought the above house, he hired a dendrochronology lab to take samples from the fireplace lentil, front wall and floor joists to run scientific dating tests. (Dendrochronology or tree-ring dating is the scientific method of dating based on the analysis of patterns of tree-rings. Dendrochronology can date the time at which tree rings were formed, in many types of wood, to the exact calendar year. From Wikipedia) The lab results were inconclusive; the best likely dating was somewhere between 1740 and 1760, but during this period it was not uncommon to reuse wood from an older home when building a new home. The Wilton Historical Society dated the home’s origin to 1791. Dendrochronology Report will be available to read at the "Building a Future From the Past" Exhibit.
"Building a Future From the Past" – Exhibit
March 25 - October 31, 2012
Tue – Fri, 10am – 4pm
Sat, 1 – 4pm;
Sun (through May) 1-4pm: 4/15; 4/29; 5/6; 5/20
Cost: free to members and children, $5 for non-member adults
Special Opening Reception (Free): Sunday, March 25, 3-6pm
“Fitch House Move 2001” – Fitch House, formerly 249 Danbury Road. To make its trip from #249, south to #224 Danbury Road, this 1732/1757 dwelling sacrificed its roof, attic, and rear wings, one of which was rebuilt on the new site. The center chimney was moved intact, with the top portion reassembled in its new location. Much of the Wilton community gathered on a cold day in January, 2001, to watch the event, which was led slowly down Route 7 behind the bagpipes of Glenn Shattuck. In a single day, the house was rotated 180 degrees and set just above its newly prepared foundation. Watercolor by Ed MacEwen. Donated to the Society by Hal & Judy Higby
"This new exhibit explores architects’ work to preserve antique homes while bringing them into the 21st Century. A special opening reception will be held Sunday, March 25 from 3-6pm, and educational events, an architect’s symposium and other events related to the exhibit are being planned.
Antique homes and their strong visual presence along roads in Fairfield County and throughout New England are an important part of the tapestry that creates the character of the town.
Reminders of the town’s and nation’s heritage, these buildings serve as living monuments of our past. For the owners, antique houses provide a very real connection to the lives of residents long since passed. For those driving by, they offer glimpses of a landscape steeped in history and nostalgia.
The Wilton Historical Society and a team of 11 leading architecture firms from throughout the region explore the many ways these historic homes are being preserved, protected and restored while being adapted for life in these modern times. The featured architects will be:
- Richard Bergmann Architects – New Canaan
- Erskine-Middeleer Associates – Wilton
- Faesy-Smith Architects – Wilton
- David Ling Architects – New York
- Bartels-Pagliaro Architects – South Norwalk
- Austin Patterson Disston Architects – Southport
- Kathleen Poirier Architects – Wilton
- Kevin Quinlan Architecture – Wilton
- Rob Sanders Architects – Wilton
- Michael Smith Architects – Wilton
- Richard Tomasetti Architects – Wilton
Curated by New Canaan’s Richard Bergmann, and made possible through a generous sponsorship from Titus Built, LLC of West Redding, the exhibit offers a glimpse into the innovative solutions architects are bringing to antique homes.
More importantly, the exhibit demonstrates the craftsmanship and viability of homes built 200 years ago, and explores the historical, cultural and environmental benefits of their preservation. For more information and updates, visit www.wiltonhistorical.org or call (203) 762-7257," via Wilton Historical Society.
Wilton Historical Society Co-Presidents with "Building a Future From the Past" Curator and Lead Sponsor.
From left: Tierney O’Hearn, co-president of the Wilton Historical Society, guest curator Richard Bergmann, exhibit sponsor Jeffrey Titus, and Greg Chann, Society co-president.
“I am honored to be included with this prestigious group of local professionals who are as passionate as I am about preservation, local history and superb design. Being part of five generations of family in this area since the early 1900’s, I feel the responsibility to enrich our communities and retain a bit of our local heritage.
We are fortunate to live in an area of the United States that is rich with American history and architecture. I’m proud to support the Wilton Historical Society in their effort to educate and raise awareness of our historical buildings, architecture and construction materials and methods that have shaped how we live today.” Jeff Titus
To see more of Titus Built Historical Renovations visit their Historical Renovations Portfolio or Blog here:
http://www.titusbuilt.com/portfolio-historic-renovations.htm
http://titusbuilt.com/blog/category/historical-renovations/
Join Jeff Titus on Sunday, March 25th, at the Wilton Historical Society and enjoy what the museum is all about . . . preserving, and sharing our heritage.
Interested in Traditional American Rooms join Christine G. H. Franck’s lecture at the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art in NYC:
WINTERTHUR: TRADITIONAL AMERICAN ROOMS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28; RECEPTION AT 6:30 PM; LECTURE AT 7:00 PM
Tags: "Building a Future From the Past" Event, Connecticut, Fairfield County, Wilton, Wilton Historical Society
Posted in Charity Events, Historical Renovations | No Comments »
Friday, July 29th, 2011
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This home was originally built as a three-room saltbox in the late 1700s. It had a kitchen, a parlor and an upstairs bedroom. Folklore has it that during the Revolutionary War, the British came through the area and camped overnight in a hollow below the house. During the skirmish with the Wilton Militia, the British tried to burn the house down. Some of the beams in the basement looked like they were burned; there was definitely a fire in the house, and maybe the British started it.
The new owners of the home knew they wanted to preserve the exterior structure. All three stories of the interior, however, had fallen into disrepair. The home had been remodeled several times over its 200-plus years, leaving it with endless tiny and chopped up rooms. Most additions were added throughout the 19th century.
Titus Built was honored to have the opportunity to renovate such a historical home and has entered this project in the daily5Remodel contest.
.gif) The July contest on daily5REMODEL showcases beautiful renovations of homes at least 50 years old. Please view our project via the "featured on" button and vote. Voting is open until next Thursday, August 4, at 5 p.m. Votes for us are greatly appreciated.
The contest created many outstanding home renovation project entries. Here’s a snapshot of these projects: http://daily5remodel.com/index.php?action=snapshots
Tags: Connecticut, Contest, Daily5Remodel, Fairfield County, Historical Renovation, Improving Functionality, Ridgefield, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Historical Renovations | No Comments »
Tuesday, May 31st, 2011
When Jeff Titus bought an antique home in Wilton, CT he knew from the start that he wanted to preserve the exterior structure, but the interior of this 3-story house had fallen into disrepair; been remodeled several times over the 200+ year; and, had endless chopped up tiny rooms. The windows were narrow so they didn’t afford views of the property or let in enough natural light. “Most of the plaster wall were uneven, the front door opened directly into the main staircase to the second floor, and its location didn’t make any sense,” said Jeff.
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After Jeff bought the house, he hired a dendrochronology lab to take samples from the fireplace lentil, front wall and floor joists to run scientific dating tests. (Dendrochronology or tree-ring dating is the scientific method of dating based on the analysis of patterns of tree-rings. Dendrochronology can date the time at which tree rings were formed, in many types of wood, to the exact calendar year. From Wikipedia) The lab results were inconclusive; the best likely dating was somewhere between 1740 and 1760, but during this period it was not uncommon to reuse wood from an older home when building a new home. The Wilton Historical Society dated the home’s origin to 1791.
When remodeling an antique home you never know exactly what you’ll be dealing with until you begin to demolish part of the structure. As Jeff points out, “whenever you open up walls, particularly in an old house, you know you’re going to find things that need to be fixed. But when I ripped out the walls, I found a lot of problems I hadn’t expected”. There was no insulation; the wiring was old and of frayed covered cloth; there were two buried (blocked-in) fireplaces; during one of the previous renovations someone had placed steel beams incorrectly (sideways); and, as with most antique homes the walls and floors were not plumb and there was a lack of space for today’s mechanicals (i.e. duct work).
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Although Jeff didn’t go into the project planning to replicate the 18th C details, he did want to design the new space with respect for the home’s history. The beams were sound, and of history of the house, so they were left in place. “It’s hard to replicate this type of detailed post and beam construction today”, Jeff explained. The original center chimney remains the core of the home; although it had to be rebuilt from the top of the first floor up through the roof. And, another noteworthy fireplace in the dining room remained intact. In 1943 John Bransby and his wife purchased the property and carefully restored much of the home. One of the most historically significant additions made to the home is a fireplace decorated with ceramic tiled bas relief’s depicting important events and places in the Bransby’s lives.
Above is a close up of one of the ceramic bas relief tiles from the fireplace. The tile featured is the Wilton Congregational Church c.1790, the third church built in Wilton. The tiles were made by Bransby’s long time friend Svea Kline and were glazed with the ashes from an apple tree on Dudley Road.
In designing the new space with respect for the home’s history, Jeff built bookshelves and closets in nooks and crannies under eaves and stairwells. “I like to use all the space, and the nooks and crannies give the house character” Jeff explained. He also installed bead board, paneled wainscoting and custom molding in many of the rooms.
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Walking up the stone walk to the front of the home brings you back in time with its broad expanse of front porch, but inside brings you to the 21st C with a professional kitchen, walk in pantry and mudroom, central air conditioning, central vacuum, a whole house sound system and cable TV/Internet network – A home of nostalgia past with a fusion of 21st C comfort for today’s family.
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Greenwich, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Remodel, Renovations, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Bathroom Remodeling, Exterior Remodeling, Historical Renovations, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling, Wine Cellars | No Comments »
Friday, May 20th, 2011
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203k renovation mortgage lends 1st mortgage money up to 96.5% of the after improved value of your property.
Roofing/Gutters, Kitchen/Bathrooms, Windows/Siding, Energy efficient improvements, Additions/Dormers/In-Law apartments, Plumbing/Heating/AC/Electrical, Flooring, Tile/Carpeting, Septic/Wells, Panting, Environmental issues such as mold remediation, New free standing appliances, Purchase of approved for short sale, bank-owned or run down properties.
Houses that cannot pass a homeowner’s inspection will not be approved for a conventional loan. These homes are perfect candidates for a FHA 203k Renovation Loan.
Wednesday night I attended a very informative NARI/RCA chapter meeting sponsored by Ring’s End Lumber at their educational facility in Stratford, CT. The topic “FHA 203k Renovation Program” was presented by Jack Murphy of Campbell Mortgage.
Congress established the FHA 203k Program in 1978 as HUD’s primary program for rehabilitation and repair of owner occupied properties and enhanced the program by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. There are two 203k programs: The FHA 203k single mortgage loan which provides funds to purchase or refinance for home renovation and, the 203k Streamline Program for home non-structural repairs not exceeding $35,000.
Realtor.com Photo
Spacious ranch on lovely private lane on over 2 acres in Wilton, CT – Ranch homes are great investments for a 203k loan affording you a second floor addition.
What about the home you purchased 1- 1 ½ years ago, or before the better and best pricing, and you don’t have the funds to remodel, add on your family room or in-law/au pair apartment? A FHA 203k 1st mortgage is the perfect fit!
As a Nation, we are recovering from the worst housing market since 1960. There is a lack of homeowner equity, decreased home values, and lenders are curtailing lending. Conventional loans require a 20% – 25% down payment, a perfect credit score as well as an approved home inspection. With foreclosures, short sales as well as deferred home maintenance due to the economy the FHA 203k single mortgage affords mortgage credit to borrowers, who would otherwise not qualify, the opportunity to purchase/refinance their home for renovations.
Realtor.com Photo
Bank-owned property, sold “As Is” on very private 6.65 acres in West Redding, CT
Bank-owned, sold “as is” properties are great candidates for the FHA 203k Single Mortgage Program.
Below is some pertinent information regarding FHA 203k Single Mortgage Program*:
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Lending will be based on the “after improved value”.
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There must be some equity in property/no upside down transactions.
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Home must be owner occupied with intent to live in home for at least one year.
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First mortgage loan
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Loans can be used for both purchase and refinance
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Current interest rate of 4.875% fixed.
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Credit score of at least 620.
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Federal “Mortgage Insurance Premium” (MIP)
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Fairfield County, CT FHA Mortgage Loan Limits
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1 Family – $708,750
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2 Family – $907,350
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3 Family – $1,096,750
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4 Family – $1,363,000
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Program requires licensed and insured contractors.
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Renovation estimate must be approved by HUD.
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HUD inspections, including fees, throughout project.
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Renovation loan held in escrow and paid in phases after work is complete and passes inspection.
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10% holdback on each phase payable at the completion of the project.
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Mortgage application process is taking approximately 45 days to close.
*Data is for informational purposes only; subject to change.
If this program is of interest to you we would be happy to work with you, the realtors in Fairfield County with whom we have a quality relationship, and the FHA 203k Renovation Lenders.
Here’s another take on the Renovation Loans :: What is a 203k? http://bit.ly/GUIJNF
For further information, please refer to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website: http://1.usa.gov/gAEcC2
Blog by: Sharon Bothwell Willis
Financial Manager, Titus Built, LLC
Comment:
“Do you lack equity to finance your home improvements? The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203k renovation mortgage lends 1st mortgage money up to 96.5% of the after improved value of your property. The program can be used for either purchases or refinances. The FHA program is commonly misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, the program has no income limits, or the need to be a first-time homebuyer. Anyone is eligible, as long as you live in the home and can afford the mortgage payments. Recent enhancements by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 increased the lending loan limits of this program. In Fairfield County this loan limit is $708,750.00! Improvement such as additions, kitchen and bath remodels, energy efficiency improvements, mechanical system’s upgrades, roofs, windows, siding etc… can all be financed with this program. If you are having difficultly securing financing for your home improvements, consider the FHA 203k mortgage as a means to get your project completed.” Jack Murphy, Campbell Mortgage jmurphy@campbellmortgage.com
Tags: Addition, Bump-Out Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Energy Efficient Homes, Fairfield County, Family Room Addition, Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203k renovation mortgage, Green Remodel, Greenwich, Historical Renovation, Improving Functionality, Looking to Buy a ‘Fixer-Upper’?, New Canaan, Redding, Remodel, Renovation Financing, Renovations, Ridgefield, Small Addition, Update Exterior, Weston, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Green Building, Historical Renovations, Home Maintenance & Remodeling Tips, Interior Remodeling | 1 Comment »
Sunday, January 9th, 2011
In today’s market, many general contractors have decided that they can do the design work as well. Before you know it you are hiring someone to design your home who is only marginally qualified; you are paying enough for the service as if you had hired a bona fide architect; and, the design for the project usually ends up in the simplest form. When you inquire about more complex designs they and are likely to give you reasons why these designs can’t be done.
Hiring an architect to custom design your home renovation, and putting the plans and specifications out to bid, can cost you more than you are prepared to spend. Usually the bids come in way over budget because the costs are much higher than the architect anticipated. In turn, the architect ends up reducing the scope of the project. Also, since most architects are not builders – they can conceptually draw the plans, but it takes a quality builder to see the architect’s plans and know if the concepts can be transformed into practical, effective solutions without costly alterations during the project. What works on paper doesn’t always convert smoothly to the building process.
Before hiring the architect, it is usually best to retain a builder along with your architect to budget and estimate throughout the design process. On the other hand, if the architect and builder are not on the same page the joint venture can cause confusion, a loss of the client’s vision, and unclear communications, all areas which lead to significant disappointment during the process of a remodel or addition. It is best to choose an architect and builder that have worked well together in the past and can give you a partnering method.
When done right, remodeling design is thoughtful and complex. Quality remodeling contractors know how to reconfigure rooms to fit in your existing home by utilizing the space to its maximum potential. Choosing a design-build firm that has experts and licensed professionals working on both the architecture and construction portions of the project usually delivers a project on budget. The design-build process is completed faster, less expensive than an architect bid-build project and tops in quality measurements.
Titus Built has been remodeling homes for over 15 years. We are design-build remodeling experts. Our experienced staff and trade contractors specialize in residential remodeling by communicating clearly, keeping your home clean and livable while we are working, protecting your property, and paying special attention to the safety of your children and pets. Our integrated service provides a proven, systematic and efficient process from start to finish.
Next time you remodel choose a design-build firm, you gain the advantage of working with just one source for your remodeling project.
Tags: Addition, Bump-Out Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Darien, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, New Canaan, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Small Addition, Update Exterior, Westport, Wilton
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Historical Renovations, Home Maintenance & Remodeling Tips, Interior Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, December 27th, 2010
Rick and Maura wanted more room in their Westport, CT home to accommodate their three growing children and make the whole family more comfortable. At the same time, it was important to them to maintain the integrity of their 1914 house. They wanted the remodel to look as if it had always been a part of their home, which they purchased in 1997. The Westport couple heard about Titus Built from a friend who had a positive experience with the company, and they learned that Titus Built specialized in exactly the kind of work they were seeking.
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During preliminary meetings with Titus Built, Rick was impressed by the thoroughness of Titus Built’s proposal and bidding process. "Titus Built scored very high with us during the bidding portion of the project," says Rick, “We were struck by the thoughtfulness of their proposal. It was clear they had a depth of experience with the detailed, carefully considered work we needed."Titus Built designed and built a 1-1/2 story addition, including a family room and additional living areas, to the back of the Westport couple’s home. Working with Titus Built’s design-build service model was one of the most positive aspects of the project, according to Rick. "The process was very organized and easier for us, because of the ‘soup to nuts’ services from one company. We didn’t have to act as a bridge between a designer, a builder, and an architect."
Rick considers working with Titus Built a good value and a positive experience. "The process was very tight and professional. Titus Built showed excellent control with their sub-contractors, and each phase of the project was well run." The Westport couple found that working with Titus Built gave them the same quality and level of service they would receive from a high-end architect, but with the convenience of working with one firm, from start to finish.
As for the Westport couple’s primary concern that their 1914 home retain its design integrity? "On a scale of 1-10 for architectural aesthetic, I would give Titus Built a 12," says Rick.
Call 203-834-0275 to see how we can help. Or visit us at www.titusbuilt.com.
Tags: Addition, Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Design-Build, Fairfield County, Improving Functionality, Kitchen Remodeling, Remodel, Remodeling, Renovations, Tradition Transformed, Update Exterior, Westport, Woodworking
Posted in Architectural Design & Home Renovations, Exterior Remodeling, Historical Renovations, Interior Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling | No Comments »
Monday, November 29th, 2010
GREEK REVIVAL REBORN as STYLISH 1877 ITALIANATE A number of Westport’s prosperous Victorian-era fashionistas shed their “dated” Colonials or Greek Revivals by expanding and encasing them in new, Italianate facades and rooflines such as this 1840 Jesse Bradley house. Its current owners found the missing staircase, created an exposed brick bath by the central chimney, added a chic butler’s pantry, mudroom, bedroom and master bath, converted the lookout attic and cupola to fabulous work/play space and restored the barn/garage. Westport, CT Historical Society
At Titus Built, we have an appreciation for historical accuracy and our renovations, including additions, meld beautifully with the original design of the home. We understand how vital it is for the addition to look original. Therefore, we do our utmost to get it right the first time.
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Through careful planning and executing, our additions are created to enhance the architecture; we place great emphasis on making all additions & renovations "blend in" so as to increase the value and beauty of your home.
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"Jeff’s team did an outstanding job in a major interior/exterior renovation and addition to our 1840 nationally registered home. His high quality craftsmanship was recognized by the Westport Historical Society which gave his team a highly coveted Preservation Award. In addition to high quality work, Jeff was always professional, customer focused and reliable. We have used Titus Built, LLC for three major projects." – Mark and Tricia Fagan
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Titus Built’s renovation of the GREEK REVIVAL REBORN as STYLISH 1877 ITALIANATE will be one of 5 private homes that are featured in the 2010 Westport Historical Society 24th Annual Holiday House Tour on December 5th. Tickets are on sale thru the Society’s website. http://www.westporthistory.org/uncategorized/24th-annual-holiday-house-tour-soiree/
Tags: Connecticut, Custom Millwork, Design-Build, Historical Renovation, Holiday House Tours, Remodel, Westport
Posted in Historical Renovations | No Comments »
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