Historical Integrity

Upon first entering this early 1900s North Asheville home, Sean Perry felt as if he’d stepped back in time. And though it needed a full restoration — addressing multiple structural issues, as well as outdated electrical, plumbing, gas and insulation systems — maintaining the home’s historical integrity was at the forefront of this massive (and ultimately striking) undertaking.

With a goal of updating the home for modern living, The Hands of Sean Perry Co. rebuilt the original Porte Cochere to accommodate today’s vehicles. Then, the team installed a pool and stone deck in the backyard, giving the homeowners and their children a place to relax and enjoy sunny summer afternoons. Bringing even more light to the project, the crew relocated the home’s kitchen to its sunniest room, directly next to the veranda, drawing better connections between dining and entertaining.

In addition to these big changes, every room, including the basement, received updates and renovations — the dining room, kitchen, mudroom, living room, three full- and two half-bathrooms, four bedrooms, two office rooms and a finished attic space. Keeping as many details true to the home’s historic character as possible, the team even restored the original heart pine and oak floors, as well as its central staircase.

In May 2021, this project won a Rehabilitation Griffin Award from the Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County. Link to video.