Portland’s historic neighborhoods—like Irvington, Ladd’s Addition, Sellwood, Laurelhurst, and Alameda—are full of homes with charm you don’t find in newer builds. Original woodwork, built-ins, stained glass, and unique floor plans are a big part of what makes these houses special. But living in a century-old home also means dealing with layouts and systems that weren’t built for modern life.

Remodeling these homes is often a balancing act: keeping the character people love while making the space practical, safe, and comfortable for today. Here’s how homeowners and remodelers in Portland usually approach that balance.

1. Start by Understanding the Home’s Existing Character

Every historic home has details that define its personality. Before any remodel, it helps to identify the features worth preserving:

• original fir or oak floors
• built-in cabinets, hutches, and window seats
• craftsman-era trim and molding
• stained or leaded glass
• old brick fireplaces
• unique doors and hardware

Many Portland homeowners choose to restore these rather than replace them. Even when a room is being completely updated, weaving in a few original elements can keep the home’s soul intact.

2. Update the Layout Without Losing its Story

Older Portland houses often have smaller kitchens, tight hallways, and rooms divided by walls that made sense a century ago. Today’s homeowners usually want a little more openness without wiping out the home’s architecture.

Instead of knocking down everything, remodels often focus on:

• widening doorways
• creating larger cased openings
• adding pass-throughs between rooms
• reworking the kitchen layout while keeping built-ins

This approach keeps the structure’s historic lines while improving flow and usability.

3. Bring Electrical, Plumbing, and Heating Up to Modern Standards

Many older homes still have outdated systems—galvanized plumbing, older wiring, drafty windows, or inefficient heating. While these upgrades aren’t visually dramatic, they make the biggest difference in long-term comfort and safety.

Common updates include:

• replacing knob-and-tube wiring
• upgrading plumbing to modern materials
• adding insulation to drafty walls and attics
• installing more efficient HVAC or heat pumps
• repairing or restoring old windows instead of replacing them

Where possible, contractors hide new systems behind existing trim and walls so the upgrades don’t disturb original architecture.

4. Preserve the Woodwork—It’s a Big Part of Portland’s History

One of the standout features in NE and SE Portland homes is the millwork. Trim, baseboards, wainscoting, and beams were crafted with techniques that are hard to replicate today.

Instead of removing or painting over everything, many remodels focus on:

• repairing damaged wood
• stripping thick layers of old paint
• re-staining pieces to bring out the grain
• matching new trim to old profiles when walls move

This attention to detail keeps the home feeling authentic even when rooms are redesigned.

5. Blend Modern Materials With Vintage Style

It’s possible to modernize without losing the historic feel. This often means choosing finishes that complement the era of the home:

• classic shaker or inset cabinets
• handmade, subway, or mosaic tile
• soft white, sage, navy, or warm earth tones
• bronze, brass, or matte black hardware
• lighting with simple, timeless lines

Modern conveniences like quartz counters or smart appliances can fit right in when balanced with warm wood and vintage textures.

6. Keep the Exterior True to the Neighborhood

Portland’s historic districts have strong architectural identities. When outdoor work is part of the remodel, homeowners often lean toward materials and details that match the original style:

• repairing wood siding instead of replacing with vinyl
• restoring front porches and columns
• choosing paint colors typical to the home’s era
• keeping original window styles whenever possible

Even small exterior details—like house numbers, lighting, or railings—can help maintain curb appeal that fits the neighborhood.

7. Make the Home Functional for Today’s Lifestyle

A remodel shouldn’t feel like a museum restoration. Many homeowners update:

• bathrooms to add walk-in showers or double vanities
• kitchens for better storage and cooking space
• mudrooms for PNW weather
• basement conversions for more usable square footage
• attic remodels for offices or bedrooms

The goal is to modernize living spaces without wiping out the craftsmanship and character that give the home its charm.

8. Work with Professionals Familiar with Portland’s Older Homes

Historic homes often come with surprises—hidden pipes, unknown wiring, or layers of older renovations. That’s why many homeowners work with remodelers who understand vintage construction and local permitting.

These professionals know how to:

• protect original materials
• solve hidden structural issues respectfully
• navigate Portland’s design review requirements (when needed)

It helps ensure the remodel looks right and lasts.