Classic Cedarburg Renovation is Underway
If you drove past our newest project in Cedarburg this week, you probably heard the sound of sledgehammers.
We are officially underway on our latest full home renovation! The dumpster is in the driveway, the dust is flying, and "Demo Mode" is in full swing.
There is always a unique energy at the start of a project like this. It’s a mix of destruction and discovery. As we peel back the layers of the last few decades (shag carpet, anyone?), we are revealing the true bones of this home—and that is exactly where our inspiration starts.
The Vision: Classic Soul, Modern Flow
Cedarburg is famous for its charm. The last thing we want to do is take a home with history and turn it into a sterile white box. However, the way we lived 80 years ago is very different from how we live today.
Our goal for this renovation is a delicate balance: Preservation meets Modernization.
Here is the plan:
First floor updated plan
1. Fixing the Flow (The Modern Part)
Like many Cedarburg homes of its era, the original layout had its quirks—specifically a staircase placement that ate up valuable square footage and created awkward traffic patterns.
The Big Move: We are making a bold structural change: we are relocating the entire staircase.
The "Why": This single move unlocks the entire floor plan. By shifting the stairs, we are solving the puzzle of the second floor, creating a proper hallway that finally allows easy access to the upstairs bathroom for everyone.
The Primary Suite: The best part? This adjustment allows us to double the size of the primary bedroom. We are taking what was a modest room and transforming it into a true retreat with the space today's homeowners expect.
2. Keeping the Character (The Classic Part)
This is the most important part. We are fighting hard to keep the elements that tell the story of the house.
What stays: Wherever possible, we are salvaging original millwork, restoring hardwood floors that have been hidden under carpet for years, and keeping the vintage exterior charm that fits so perfectly into the Cedarburg streetscape.
What’s Happening Right Now?
We are currently in the Demolition and Discovery phase. This is where we confirm that our architectural plans match reality.
So far, the house has been full of surprises—mostly good ones! We’ve uncovered some beautiful original framing and are getting a clear picture of just how much natural light we can bring into the space once the new layout is framed up.
Follow the Journey
This isn't just a flip; it’s a revival. Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing updates on:
The framing process (where you’ll finally see the new staircase location take shape).
Design choices (tile, paint, and fixtures).
The inevitable "challenges" that come with renovating an older home (and how we solve them!).
We can’t wait to show you what this Cedarburg gem looks like when the dust settles.
