Preserving Historic Charm

In this tutorial, I'm thrilled to share with you how Mandy Milks, co-founder of Hemme Custom, transformed her Victorian rowhouse into a gorgeous and timeless home. One of the main challenges in this process was maintaining the historic charm while infusing it with modern elements.

Mandy worked closely with designer Mazen El-Abdallah to strike the perfect balance between preserving the original features of the house and incorporating contemporary design concepts. They carefully restored the intricate woodwork, replaced outdated fixtures with period-appropriate ones, and added a fresh coat of paint to highlight the architectural details.

Preserved woodwork and architectural details

Period-appropriate fixtures

Creating a Family-Friendly Space

Another important aspect of this makeover was to create a home that is not only beautiful but also practical for Mandy's family. With two young kids, she wanted to ensure that the space accommodated their needs while still exuding elegance.

To achieve this, Mazen and Mandy incorporated durable and low-maintenance materials throughout the house. They chose hardwood flooring that can withstand heavy foot traffic and easily be cleaned. The furniture was carefully selected to be both stylish and kid-friendly, with stain-resistant fabrics and rounded edges for safety.

Additionally, they created designated areas for the children to play and study, while keeping the overall aesthetic cohesive with the rest of the house. This way, Mandy and her family can enjoy their beautiful home without compromising on functionality.

Kid-friendly and stylish furniture

Designated play and study areas

Finding Inspiration in Tradition

Throughout the makeover process, Mandy and Mazen drew inspiration from traditional design elements to create a cohesive and classic look. They carefully selected furniture and decor pieces that complemented the historic architecture of the house.

One standout feature in the living room is the fireplace mantel, which was restored to its original glory. The intricate carvings and ornate details are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. To enhance this focal point, they chose a timeless painting and decorative accessories that echo the colors and motifs of the era.

In the dining room, they opted for a traditional farmhouse table that can accommodate both family dinners and entertaining guests. This choice not only adds a touch of rustic charm but also provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings.

Restored fireplace mantel

Traditional farmhouse dining table