Remodeling an old house can be an exciting and rewarding project. With some creativity and careful planning, you can give new life to a dated or rundown home. Small houses in particular present great opportunities for remodeling projects. Their cozy spaces are ripe for upgrades that maximize function and style.
Free small house plans can provide excellent inspiration and guidance for remodeling projects. They offer creative floor plans and design ideas that are budget-friendly. When tailored to your specific home, free small house plans can help you reimagine an old house into a fresh, inviting living space.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how free small house plans can help you remodel an old house. We’ll cover key factors to consider and provide tips to blend classic charm with modern updates. Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Right Free Small House Plans for Your Project
With so many free house plans available online, how do you select ones that will work for an old house remodel? Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Consider the Existing Layout and Footprint
Work within the general footprint and layout of your old house. Look for free small house plans that adapt well to the existing structure. For example, if you have a narrow shotgun style house, search for plans suited to that long and lean shape. Avoid plans that would require major structural changes.
Complement Architectural Style and Details
Choose plans with details that enhance, rather than overwhelm, your home’s architectural style. For example, a Craftsman bungalow could be paired with free plans that incorporate natural materials and clean lines. Take note of special period details like moldings, flooring and lighting fixtures, and find plans that are sympathetic.
Evaluate Room Sizes and Spatial Flow
Consider how well the rooms and spaces in the free plans fit your current layout. Can existing rooms be opened up and resized for better function, or divided to create additional rooms? Assess traffic flow between rooms and how the plans impact livability.
Mind the Budget
Opt for free small house plans that work with your remodeling budget. More expensive projects typically involve structural changes, relocating plumbing or HVAC systems, adding square footage, etc. Look for free plans where renovations can focus on surfaces like flooring, paint and finishes.
Consider Your Lifestyle Needs
Factor in how your lifestyle and needs have changed over time. Do the free plans reflect how your home is used today? For example, an open concept great room may better suit a busy family cook than a compartmentalized floor plan of decades past.
By finding the right free small house plans for your specific old home and goals, you’ll set your remodeling project up for success.
Blending Classic Charm and Modern Updates
One of the challenges of remodeling an old house is maintaining its original charm while also updating it for modern day life. Free small house plans can help you strike the right balance. Here are some tips:
Preserve Key Architectural Features
Identify any crown molding, built-in cabinetry, fireplace mantels, or other period details that showcase your home’s unique architecture and represent its heritage. Work these features into the overall remodel plan.
Complement with Transitional Elements
Bridge old and new with transitional design elements like wider trim, beadboard wainscoting, ceiling medallions or barn doors. These can introduce character without starkly contrasting a home’s original style.
Upgrade Systems and Surfaces
While preserving architectural features, upgrade systems and surfaces for improved function. Swap outdated plumbing and electrical, improve insulation in attics and walls, and refinish floors and walls with on-trend, durable materials.
Add Open Concept Spaces
Knocking down select walls to create open concept living areas improves flow for modern families. But retain some compartmentalized spaces too, for cozier rooms. Free small house plans can achieve the right layout balance.
Incorporate Vintage Finds
Blend old and new by using salvaged or vintage items where possible. Display an antique door as interior wall art. Upcycle clawfoot tub fixtures or retro light bulbs. Add charm with reclaimed wood beams or upcycled furniture pieces.
Use Neutral Colors as a Base
Paint walls and ceilings in light neutrals like soft whites, pale greys and warm ivories to create a clean backdrop. Then layer in pops of color and personality through changeable accents like throw pillows, rugs and art.
By thoughtfully blending beloved original details with tailored modern upgrades, old homes take on new life while retaining their heritage and character.
Key Rooms to Focus the Remodel
When remodeling an old home, you may not be able to renovate the entire house all at once. Prioritizing a few key rooms to remodel first can provide the biggest impact. Consider focusing your remodel efforts on these prime living spaces:
Kitchen
As the heart of the home, an updated kitchen can completely transform an old house. Even modest changes like new countertops and energy-efficient appliances can make a noticeable difference. If budget allows, knocking down walls to open the kitchen to adjacent living areas creates a light, airy gathering space for modern living.
Primary Bedroom and Bath
Your personal oasis deserves a makeover. Swap outdated bedrooms and bathrooms for relaxing sanctuaries. Trade small closets for walk-in wardrobes, install spa-like baths, and upgrade surfaces for a luxurious feel. Free small house plans offer great primary suite layouts.
Living Room
Open up compartmentalized living rooms to create free-flowing great rooms for entertaining. Built-in shelving and fireplace updates maintain character while giving the space renewed purpose. Even small tweaks like new lighting fixtures and furniture arrangements go far.
Mudroom
Transform awkward, unused spaces into functional mudrooms. Add storage cubbies and lockers for wrangling family gear. Lay an attractive floor surface that stands up to high traffic. Install a bench for taking off muddy shoes. Now you have a dedicated place to drop bags and coats.
Exterior Curb Appeal
An exterior update completes the transformation and adds instant street appeal. Paint or restain weathered siding. Swap dilapidated windows and doors. Add personality with a fresh front door color or new landscape plants and lighting. A little exterior TLC goes a long way.
By thoughtfully remodeling these high-impact living zones first, you’ll feel the benefits throughout your home right away. The updates will encourage you as you save up and move onto the next remodeling phase.
Blending Layouts for Improved Function
Old homes often have compartmentalized, closed off rooms that limit livability by today’s standards. Families interact differently than decades ago. We cook together in open kitchens, entertain friends in expansive living spaces, work remotely, and require dedicated storage.
Blending layouts through careful removal of select walls can enhance how you use an old home. Free small house plans offer creative ways to open up floor plans for improved circulation and functionality. Consider these blended layouts:
Great Room Kitchen and Living Areas
Remove walls separating outdated kitchen, dining and living rooms. Open up the space to create a light and airy great room that brings people together. Delineate zones with flooring changes, ceilings details, or furniture arrangements.
Master Suite Bathroom Expansions
Borrow space from adjacent bedrooms or closets to expand small bathrooms. Creating spa-like master suites with dual vanities, walk-in showers and freestanding tubs. Use attractive barn doors or frosted glass to separate the spaces.
Mudroom-Laundry Combinations
Reconfigure awkward hallways or closets to allow convenient laundry access right off the mudroom entry. Install cabinets above appliances for folding clothes right out of the dryer. Add sinks, lockers and benches to maximize functionality.
Home Office Nooks
Carve out work nooks or office corners in unused living areas or large bedrooms. Built-in workstations and shelving maintain the architecture while creating dedicated work zones.
While blending spaces, be mindful of ceiling heights, HVAC requirements, plumbing locations and lighting plans. Balance open concepts with some compartmentalized rooms for versatile whole home function.
Cost-Effective Remodeling Projects
Remodeling an entire home can strain even the best budget. Taking on a few targeted, cost-effective projects lets you upgrade your old house affordably, room by room. Focus first on quick fixes with immediate visual impact. Here are budget-friendly remodeling projects to consider:
- Paint walls, ceilings, doors and trim for an instant facelift. Stick with light neutrals. Refresh periodically.
- Switch out lighting and plumbing fixtures for updated style on a budget. Add dimmers for ambiance.
- Replace outdated flooring with attractive, durable and affordable alternatives like vinyl plank, laminate and stained concrete.
- Update kitchen and bathroom countertops affordably with butcher block, concrete, recycled glass or acrylic solid surface materials.
- Knock out walls for improved flow. Limit to non-load-bearing walls and keep electrical, HVAC and plumbing changes minimal.
- Refresh bathrooms with new shower curtains and affordable tile backsplashes. Upgrade vanities and fixtures.
- Add architectural interest with shiplap, beadboard or removable wallpaper accents. Use sparingly.
- Landscape with attractive native and drought-tolerant plants. Add striking pots. Improve hardscapes and exterior lighting.
- Replace hollow core doors with solid wood styles. Add character with antique knobs or hinges.
- Upgrade cabinets with new hardware and modern paint techniques like two-tone combinations.
By taking a phased approach, and limiting expensive structural, mechanical and layout changes, you can remodel an old house affordably and completely transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary places you’re proud to call home.
Maintaining Character in Remodels
A danger of any remodel is losing the inherent character and charm of an older home. But free small house plans can help preserve and enhance original architectural details in fresh, creative ways. Here are some key tips:
Restore Hardwood Floors
Beautiful old hardwood floors lend vintage appeal. Have them professionally refinished to restore luster and remove dated carpeting.
Retain Woodwork
Protect original crown molding, baseboards, window and door trim, and built-ins. A fresh coat of white paint shows off classic woodwork.
Accentuate Fireplaces
Fireplaces showcase craftsmanship. Clean original brick or tile. Paint dated mantels and update surrounds for a facelift. Add warm wood shelves to flank.
Utilize Architectural Salvage
Incorporate salvaged doors, clawfoot tubs, lighting and hardware from architectural salvage companies. Vintage pieces add authenticity.
Display Family Heirlooms
Give treasured antiques, handmade quilts, or artwork passed down significance through thoughtful display. Your unique pieces say “home”.
Preserve Exposed Brick, Beams and Posts
Exposed structural elements like interior brick walls, posts and beams provide character. Enhance their texture with washes of white paint.
Add Charming Wallpaper Accents
Use removable wallpaper sparingly to complement original architecture. Try geometric patterns or classic motifs. Limit to accent walls or ceilings.
Include Vintage-Style Fixtures and Finishes
Choose light fixtures, hardware and plumbing styles that hint at the era but offer updated function. Aged metal finishes, exposed filament bulbs, and subway tile maintain nostalgia.
By thoughtfully blending original architectural elements with tasteful new additions, you can remodel an old home for modern living while still preserving its heritage and history. The result is a comfortable, inviting and timeless space with added value.
Adding Square Footage During Remodels
Many old homes simply don’t offer enough space for a growing family’s needs today. Their small, compartmentalized rooms strain to function for modern life. Carefully considered additions during a remodel can add necessary square footage without compromising architectural character.
Building Up for Bonus Space
Adding a second story to a one-level ranch home is a cost-effective way to gain living space while maintaining a modest footprint. On top floors, free small house plans often incorporate expanded master suites, laundry rooms, offices and recreation rooms.
Bumping Out for Larger Kitchens
Expanding the kitchen’s footprint with a bumped out addition becomes a high-return investment. Extra space welcomes islands, increased storage and generous countertops in the home’s most lived-in room.
Attached Flex Rooms
Build an attached multi-purpose room to gain space for exercise, play, storage or guests, depending on need. Often designed using the existing roofline, these additions have a cohesive look.
Mudroom Entries
Mudrooms resurrect awkward dead space at entries into functional drop zones for family gear. These add-ons improve flow from garage to home with personalized storage options.
Screened Porches
Screened-in porches add warm weather living space without expensive foundation, roofing and siding costs. They also buffer the indoors and outdoors while expanding living options.
When planning additions, carefully assess how increased square footage impacts site drainage, roof loads, foundation requirements, HVAC capacity and electric systems. Focus on smart gains that solve needs without overbuilding. The right additions breathe new life into small, outdated homes.
Achieving Move-In Ready Updates
After living through the dust and disruption of a major remodel, you’ll be eager to finally enjoy your refreshed home. But finishing touches are important to pull the space together. Avoid move-in regrets by including these updates for a polished, move-in ready home:
Style Interior Doors
Strap hinge hardware, eye-catching knobs and finishing touches like trim bring dated, hollow core doors new life affordably. Paint doors in a accent hue.
Install Window Coverings
Take time to properly dress windows with treatments like drapes, shades and shutters. They control light and provide privacy with style.
Update Hardware and Fixtures
Replace outdated cabinet hardware, drawer pulls, shower fixtures, light fixtures and switches for a finished, cohesive look. Metallic finishes modernize.
Add Architectural Moldings
Crown molding that complements original trim adds elegance to new ceilings and wall openings added during remodels.
Style Bathrooms and Kitchen
Include finishing touches like framed mirrors, art, window valances, ceramic soap dishes and glasses to pull bath and kitchen designs together.
Finish Flooring
Choose area rugs, entry mats and stair runners that complement new flooring installations. Add tile trim and wall baseboards for polished edges.
Landscape and Hardscape
Plantings, mulch, edging, pathway lighting and finishes to walls, patios and drives complete exterior remodeling work.
Arrange Furniture
With construction mess gone, thoughtfully arrange furnishings and artwork. Make rooms inviting and functional through careful layouts.
Clean Thoroughly
Scrub surfaces and vacuum thoroughly after workers leave. Replace AC filters and check for construction debris around the home’s exterior and roof.
Taking time to add thoughtful finishing touches helps realize the full potential of remodeling efforts. Move in ready updates ensure you enjoy the revived home you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Protecting Your Investment Long-Term
Remodeling an old home takes considerable time, energy and money. Protect your investment with smart maintenance and care. Here are tips to keep your remodeled home looking its best for years to come:
Maintain Curb Appeal
Keep up exterior paint, stain, landscape beds, hardscapes and outdoor lighting. A beautiful exterior protects resale value and improves enjoyment.
Care for Finishes
Use doormats, coasters and desk pads to prevent wear and scratches. Clean painted walls and tile grout routinely to keep surfaces looking fresh.
Update Decor Over Time
Freshen up your remodeled home’s look every few years with new throw pillows, wall art, area rugs and accent pieces to prevent datedness.
Stay On Top of Repairs
Promptly fix leaky faucets, cracked grout, sticking doors, or lighting issues to protect finishes and prevent further damage.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Replace appliances, add insulation, upgrade to LED lighting and install a smart thermostat to control energy costs and support a greener home.
Deep Clean Regularly
Keep remodeled surfaces sparkling with periodic deep cleaning. Professionally clean carpets, ducts and windows annually.
Plan for Future Renovations
Remodeling is rarely “one and done”. Expect to freshen up kitchens and baths every 10-15 years. Save up for future projects.
Review Insurance Needs
Update home insurance to fully cover the increased value that remodeling brings. Review coverage and limits annually.
By caring for your remodeled home and budgeting for ongoing maintenance, you’ll enjoy the project benefits for years while also maintaining your property’s lasting value.
Conclusion
Old homes hold charm and represent heritage, but their outdated layouts and surfaces can limit livability. With creativity and proper planning, free small house plans can help breathe new life into homes needing updating. Useful both for inspiration and practical guidance, they offer solutions to gain function and style through strategic remodeling projects. By focusing on high-impact rooms, opening up layouts, blending classic details with fresh updates, and protecting investments through proper care, old homes become revitalized treasures ready for making new memories. Does your home need a remodel reboot? Let free small house plans help guide you in giving an outdated or rundown house renewed purpose and enjoyment for years to come.