Sarasota is a town with a rich history – and many neighborhoods boast stately old homes that have survived for over a century and many homes built in the 1950s and 1960s. Renovation is the answer if you love our legacy but want to update the house to exhibit a more contemporary flair. And working with an architect is the best way to ensure that you can keep the best parts of your home while utilizing materials that complement an older style, optimizing airflow, and honoring the design of days gone by without sacrificing sustainable goals. If you are considering a Sarasota renovation, be sure to ask area architectural experts for guidance. They’ve been through this before!
Sarasota Renovation: Tips from the Experts
- Expensive Surprises May Abound: There are always unexpected circumstances with renovating an old home. There are many unforeseen surprises under floorboards behind walls and in crawl spaces – after all, construction standards and guidelines were not the same many decades ago. From unseen deterioration and erosion of materials to shortcuts taken in past renovations, many issues arise once demolition and construction begin. Therefore, it is essential to have enough budget designated for contingencies and unforeseen surprises. Your architect can help you quantify this amount based on the home’s overall condition and how much is known about what is “behind the walls.” A fixed price structure is nearly impossible in a historic renovation – instead, a cost-plus structure is typically more advantageous for everyone involved. As the homeowner, you will understand and agree to all necessary construction costs.
- Ask for Any Clarification You Need BEFORE Signing: If a builder does present you with a fixed-price estimate, they’ve likely integrated a significant contingency to safeguard themselves in the event of surprises. However, if these unforeseen expenses turn out to be minimal, you may overpay if the total cost comes in lower than the amount proposed. If you are looking into a Sarasota renovation of a historic home – or if the place is just really old – be sure to ask your architect or builder to explain the cost structure of their bid and how they will handle finding an unexpected issue that requires more money.
- Select Your Partners and Contractors Wisely: The most vital decision you’ll make in any home renovation is not the choice of flooring, fireplace, or fixture – it is who will be on your renovation team. The level of teamwork and communication between the architect, builder, and interior designer can determine just how happy you are with the final result. Look for partners with strong community connections and reputation and a robust portfolio. You may also ask about their level of experience in historic renovations. Those with Sarasota-specific projects are uniquely qualified to help you build a modern home while still carrying on the rich tradition of our town.
We’ve mentioned several times the history and legacy of our town – from the Ringlings to the Selbys and the Wallendas, this place has been the home of many famous and historic families who recognized just how special it is. Be sure to find an architect and interior designer who understands and honors the importance of preserving history. Without deference and appreciation for the home and neighborhood’s style and structure, it’s easy to make alterations that don’t fit the ethos of the community. Finding design partners who live and work here is a great way to ensure the continuity of architectural style.
JTL Studios brings a global perspective to local home design. From new home construction to renovations, from landscape design to interior design – we have the experience and knowledge you need to create the Sarasota homestead you’ve envisioned.
