Preserving Vancouver's historic character homes while bringing them up to modern standards. We specialize in house lifts, structural upgrades, and sympathetic additions that respect the original architecture.
Vancouver's character homes have a craftsmanship and presence that's impossible to replicate in new construction. Restoring one means honouring that original detail while quietly upgrading everything behind the walls - foundations, framing, insulation, electrical, and plumbing - to perform like a modern home.
We handle the work that makes heritage projects different: house lifting and underpinning for new basements, structural upgrades within historic envelopes, and additions designed to read as if they've always been part of the house. The result keeps the charm and loses the cold drafts, knob-and-tube wiring, and crumbling foundations.
What's included
- Heritage and character restoration
- House lifting and underpinning
- Character-preserving additions
- Foundation and structural upgrades
- Modern systems within historic envelopes
- Period-appropriate finishes and millwork
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you add a basement to a character home?
Yes. We lift the house and underpin the foundation to create full-height, code-compliant basement space - a common way to add square footage without altering the home's footprint.
Will a heritage renovation keep the original character?
That's the priority. We preserve and restore original detailing wherever possible and design any additions to be sympathetic to the existing architecture.
Do heritage homes have special permit requirements?
They can, especially in designated heritage areas. We navigate the municipal and heritage-conservation requirements as part of managing your project.