This Old House – Sacramento Style... Are You Dreaming of a Victorian or Craftsman?

Many people I speak with share that they have a dream to one day buy a vintage Victorian home. Others dream of living in a Craftsman. Whatever your dream, it may be within reach and there are some things to consider before you commit to a purchase.

Some architecturally significant homes have been renovated to a more modern style with contemporary finishes. This may, or may not fit with your vision. If the renovations were completed with consideration of integrity of the architecture, the home can present a harmonious blend of styles. If done incorrectly, an update can diminish the appeal for many buyers.

If the home still sits on the original foundation, it can be very expensive to replace. In Sacramento, some owners of vintage homes choose to raise the home when putting the home on a new foundation. 

I’m am including some photos here so you can see work in progress on one home and a newly framed / poured foundation on another home. As you will see in the photos below, the end result is not only a new foundation but additional useable space.

The other intricate upgrades to consider are electric, plumbing, drywall and windows. Those who wish to maintain the integrity of the architecture will want to choose carefully when it comes to window frames, and plumbing hardware.

In Sacramento, there are many beautiful historic homes including different styles of Victorians (Queen Anne, Italianate, Second Empire). They are mainly situated around the Downtown and Mid Town areas. There are also some amazing and beautiful vintage homes in East Sacramento.

If, by chance, you would like to consider the purchase of a Italianate Victorian, circa 1890, read on! The home at 2211 O Street was originally built for the chief engineer of the Buffalo Brewing Company. It remained in his family for over 100 years.

This home features some of the more brilliant architectural features of the earlier era yet also has a spacious and open kitchen. I imagine that the designer had great for sight (or else really loved to cook). The ceilings in the living room, dining room and master bedroom are gorgeous works in sculpted plaster. Door and window casings feature bull’s eye trim. There are two entry doors, the Sunday door and every day door. Now you don’t see that every day!

This home has a new foundation and the result is a large, light and 

airy workshop area at street level. 

What could you do in this space? Electrical and plumbing has also been updated.

If you dream of life in a Victorian home, this may be time to realize that dream. Please contact me if you would like a tour of this home in Mid Town Sacramento. 

Pamela Palmer, Prudential California Realty (916) 837-4500 Pamela@Ask-Pamela.com

CA Broker No 00686023   Ask-Pamela.com/Victorian Home