Philly House Services LLC
Philadelphia’s historic rowhouses offer a unique blend of classic charm and urban living. But maintaining and renovating these homes requires expert craftsmanship and a deep understanding of city architecture. Whether you own a classic brick rowhouse in Rittenhouse Square or a pre-war home in Fishtown, knowing how to renovate efficiently can increase your home’s value and ensure its longevity.
Why Renovating a Rowhouse is Different
Unlike modern suburban homes, Philly rowhouses are tightly packed structures with shared walls, narrow layouts, and aged materials. This presents challenges such as:
✔ Space Optimization – Making the most of limited square footage.
✔ Structural Integrity – Ensuring old foundations and framing remain stable.
✔ Permit Requirements – Navigating Philadelphia’s zoning and renovation permits (Learn More from the Philadelphia L&I Department).
Essential Rowhouse Renovation Tips
1. Preserve the Historic Charm
Maintaining the original character of a rowhouse can add significant value. Homebuyers appreciate features like:
🔹 Exposed Brick Walls – Adds warmth and authenticity.
🔹 Original Hardwood Floors – Refinishing old wood floors instead of replacing them.
🔹 Classic Crown Molding & Trim – Restoring detailed moldings can enhance resale value.
2. Open Up the Floor Plan
Older rowhouses tend to have small, segmented rooms. Knocking down non-load-bearing walls can create an open-concept design, making the home feel larger and brighter.
Pro Tip: If removing walls isn’t an option, use mirrors, light-colored paint, and glass partitions to enhance natural light.
3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Features
Since Philly rowhomes are older, many still have single-pane windows, outdated insulation, and inefficient HVAC systems. Upgrading to:
✔ Double-pane windows (Energy Star Certified Windows)
✔ Spray foam insulation
✔ Ductless mini-split HVAC systems
…can reduce energy costs by up to 30% and improve comfort year-round.
4. Renovate the Basement for Extra Space
Many rowhouses have unfinished basements that can be converted into:
🔹 A home office or gym
🔹 A rental unit for extra income
🔹 A media or entertainment room
Important: Ensure proper waterproofing before starting any basement renovations. (Learn about basement waterproofing solutions)
Ready to Transform Your Rowhouse?
At Philly House Services LLC, we specialize in custom renovations that respect the historical integrity of Philadelphia’s homes while modernizing them for today’s lifestyle.
📞 Call us today for a FREE consultation!
