Definition
In real estate terms, restore refers to the process whereby a building is returned to its original condition and appearance. This involves the meticulous reconstruction, repair, or replacement of structural and decorative elements to match the original style as closely as possible. Standard construction materials and modern techniques might be used, but the emphasis is on preserving or accurately re-creating the original architecture and design features.
Examples
- Victorian Home Restoration: The Hollys purchased an old Victorian-style home that had been converted into a duplex. To restore it, they removed partitions, refinished the hardwood floors, repaired fireplaces, and made additional improvements to return the building to its original style.
- Historic Schoolhouse: A 19th-century schoolhouse is restored by carefully replicating the original chalkboards, light fixtures, and flooring, while ensuring the structure meets modern building codes.
- Art Deco Theater: An Art Deco theater built in the 1930s undergoes restoration, which involves repairing marquee lighting, restoring original seat designs, and reviving distinctive decorative features on the exterior and interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between restoration and renovation?
Restoration focuses on returning a property to its original state, preserving or replicating historical details. Renovation, on the other hand, updates or remodels a property, often adding modern amenities and making stylistic changes that may stray from the original design.
Can modern materials be used in a restoration project?
Yes, modern materials can be used, but the goal is to mimic the appearance and structural integrity of the original construction as closely as possible.
Is it more expensive to restore a building compared to renovating it?
Restoration can be more costly due to the need for specialized materials, expert craftsmanship, and potentially lengthy processes required to reproduce historical details accurately.
Are there any financial incentives for restoring historical buildings?
Yes, many local, state, and federal programs offer tax credits, grants, and other incentives to encourage the restoration of historically significant properties.
How do I determine if a building is eligible for restoration benefits?
Eligibility for restoration benefits often depends on whether the building is listed or eligible for listing on a historic register. Consult local preservation societies or governmental agencies for guidance.
Related Terms
- Renovation: The process of improving or modernizing a part of a building without necessarily preserving historical integrity.
- Rehabilitation: The process of making a building habitable again, typically involving extensive repairs.
- Historic Preservation: Efforts to preserve and protect buildings or sites of historical significance from decay or destruction.
- Adaptive Reuse: The process of repurposing old buildings for new uses while retaining their historic features.
Online Resources
- National Trust for Historic Preservation: savingplaces.org
- Historic Preservation Education Foundation: hpef.us
- National Register of Historic Places: nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/index.htm
References
- “The Restoration Handbook: A Guide to Preserving and Reconstructing Historic Buildings” - available online or any large bookstore.
- “The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties” by U.S. Department of the Interior
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Old House Restoration: A Complete Guide” by Christopher Evers
- “Restoration & Renovation: The Definitive Guide” by Michael Litchfield
- “Historic Preservation: An Introduction to Its History, Principles, and Practice” by Norman Tyler
Real Estate Basics: Restore Fundamentals Quiz
### Which best defines the term "restore" in real estate?
- [ ] Remodeling a building for modern purposes.
- [x] Returning a building to its original quality and appearance.
- [ ] Expanding a property by adding new structures.
- [ ] Performing routine maintenance and repairs.
> **Explanation:** In real estate, restore aims at returning a building to its original quality and appearance, often employing new materials but replicating the original design.
### What is often prioritized in a restoration project?
- [ ] Adding modern amenities.
- [x] Faithfully reproducing the original style.
- [ ] Reducing the size of the building.
- [ ] Converting the property for new industrial use.
> **Explanation:** The primary focus of restoration is on faithfully reproducing the original style and elements of the building.
### Can modern materials be used in a restoration project?
- [x] Yes, to mimic the original construction.
- [ ] No, only historical materials may be used.
- [ ] Only if they remain unseen.
- [ ] Yes, but only for non-structural elements.
> **Explanation:** Modern materials can be used in restoration projects to mimic and closely replicate the original construction.
### What type of property might most likely be subject to restoration work?
- [ ] A new commercial building.
- [ ] Newly built homes.
- [x] Historic buildings.
- [ ] Recently renovated apartment complexes.
> **Explanation:** Historic buildings are typically the subject of restoration as these efforts focus on preserving historical integrity.
### Restoration is often concerned with which aspect of a building?
- [ ] Its market value.
- [ ] Its future use.
- [x] Its historical authenticity.
- [ ] Its proximity to public amenities.
> **Explanation:** Restoration is chiefly concerned with the historical authenticity of a property, aiming to preserve its original style and design elements.
### What is often required to qualify for financial incentives in a restoration project?
- [ ] The property should be owned by a non-profit.
- [ ] Confirmation of project's profitability.
- [x] The property must be listed or eligible for listing on a historic register.
- [ ] A minimum project cost of $1 million.
> **Explanation:** To qualify for financial incentives, a property typically must be listed or eligible for listing on a historic register.
### What type of detail is critically important in a restoration project?
- [ ] Modern design enhancements.
- [ ] Open floor plans.
- [x] Preservation of original architectural details.
- [ ] Energy efficiency alterations.
> **Explanation:** Preservation and accurate replication of original architectural details is critically important in restoration.
### Are there special experts often needed for restoration projects?
- [ ] No, any construction team can handle restoration.
- [x] Yes, specialized craftsmen and historians.
- [ ] Only legal experts to follow regulations.
- [ ] Only interior designers for decor accuracy.
> **Explanation:** Specialized craftsmen and experts in historical construction techniques are often needed for restoration projects to ensure accuracy.
### Restoration focuses on which period of a building's life?
- [ ] Future design adaptability.
- [ ] Current functional needs.
- [x] The original period of construction.
- [ ] Potential for expansion.
> **Explanation:** Restoration focuses on the original period of construction, aiming to bring the property back to its initial condition.
### How does restoration differ from adaptive reuse?
- [x] Restoration preserves or re-creates the original style; adaptive reuse repurposes the building for a new function.
- [ ] Adaptive reuse focuses on historical integrity while restoration focuses on modern needs.
- [ ] Restoration only involves exterior work.
- [ ] Both terms refer to the same process.
> **Explanation:** Restoration aims to preserve or accurately re-create the original style, whereas adaptive reuse repurposes the building for new functions while retaining historic features.
