Historical Home Renovation Contractors in Philadelphia

Historic Renovation Services for Philadelphia Homes with Real History

Not all required renovation work is obvious. In older homes, every inch tells a story—and every change carries weight. APS Masonry Contracting approaches each detail with care, offering specialized services that protect, reinforce, and adapt your home without stripping away its identity.

• Masonry Repair and Facade Restoration

  Original brick and stonework in historic buildings isn’t just aesthetic—it holds structural memory. We repair failing mortar, stabilize cracked facades, and replicate missing details using historically appropriate materials and techniques. Our team understands how to retain surface patina while delivering structural longevity, especially in homes built before 1920.

• Woodwork, Trim, and Interior Detailing

  Preserving heritage doesn’t stop at the door. We restore interior moldings, libraries, stair rails, and casings that were built with care—and deserve to stay. When original pieces can’t be saved, we produce custom millwork to match profiles that haven’t been manufactured in 80 years. In every case, the goal is clarity, continuity, and respect for the home’s past.

• Systems Upgrades for Modern Living

  APS integrates modern amenities into historic homes without making them feel newly built. We discreetly update HVAC, electric, and plumbing systems to current code while preserving the scale and intimacy of older floorplans. Our projects often include routing energy efficient upgrades behind plaster walls, adding insulation where possible, and modernizing function while maintaining flow.

• Reconfiguring Layouts While Preserving Charm

  Some homes need more than patchwork—they need thoughtful transformation. We work with clients to rethink how space is used, combining rooms, upgrading bathrooms, and improving movement while holding onto the charm that made the house worth saving. Every layout update is drawn from the home’s own bones—never imposed from the outside.

  Keep the past intact—and make your home ready for the decades ahead. Talk to APS about restoring what was built to last.

Preserving More Than a Home—Upholding Philadelphia’s Legacy

Philadelphia doesn’t just have history—it lives in it. The homes here weren’t designed to flip. They were built to stay, passed through families, evolving slowly with time. When you step into one of these properties—whether it’s a 19th-century rowhome in Fairmount or a twin near Mt. Airy—you’re inheriting more than a building. You’re inheriting a place in the city’s rhythm.

At APS Masonry Contracting, we work with homeowners at every level of understanding—from proud lifelong Philadelphians who want every detail just right, to newcomers unsure of how much change is too much. We guide without lecturing, offering expertise rooted in craft, code, and care. We know when to bring in a historical consultant, how to follow guidelines from the Preservation Alliance, and when to let original materials speak for themselves.

Owning a historic home in this city is a privilege—and we treat it like one. You don’t need to know everything about 1880s cornice profiles or turn-of-the-century stone pointing. That’s what we’re here for. We help you do the work that respects your house, your neighbors, and the story your block has been telling for generations.

FAQs for Historical Home Renovation in Philadelphia

• How do I know what changes are allowed in a historic home renovation?

  We walk you through the review process step-by-step. Some historic buildings in Philadelphia are registered landmarks, while others fall under neighborhood preservation zones. APS handles research, paperwork, and coordination with city officials and, where applicable, the Preservation Alliance, so you’re not dealing with these requirements alone.

• Can modern upgrades be added without harming the character of my home?

  Absolutely. Our team specializes in integrating modern upgrades—like radiant floor heating, recessed lighting, and smart controls—while protecting original materials and finishes. The goal is to transform your home into a more livable space without interrupting its history.

• What kind of modern amenities are possible in an older floor plan?

  We’ve added full HVAC systems, discreet laundry rooms, and chef-level kitchens into homes built long before plumbing was standard. These modern amenities are designed and installed to respect scale, sightlines, and surface materials, improving comfort without overwhelming period features.

• How long will a historic home renovation take?

  Every home is different, but we provide accurate timelines based on project size and system efficiency. We won’t rush the details, but we won’t drag the work out either. Our record of completed restorations across the Greater Philadelphia area shows what’s possible when experienced crews stick to clean scheduling and clear expectations.

• What if I’m just starting to consider restoring a historic property?

  We’re available for early-stage consultations to help you assess scope, timeline, availability of materials, and design direction. Whether you already own the property or are looking to buy, we’ll walk through your ideas and talk through enhancing what’s there—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.