Restored Historic Charm

Honoring its History

“We really wanted to express what can be possible in some of the older homes in Chattanooga’s historic districts,” says Bridges. “We wanted to respect the history of the home on the exterior, being careful to exercise a light touch and only make changes that we felt brought it closer to original.”

Thoughtful, yet true-to-character updates include refurbished brick and windows, a built-from-scratch white oak door, and period-appropriate hardware. Inside, in the office, dark navy walls give the space a moody atmosphere, juxtaposed with floral wall covering on the ceiling to lighten the room and add visual interest. Warm wood and glass pocket doors add privacy when needed without interrupting the flow of the home.

“In the interior, we purposely pushed the envelope and took some risks, and had fun with the design. Above all, we wanted this home to show some
personality,” adds Bridges.

To see more from Surface Architecture & Design,
visit surfacearch.com.

Complete with original heart pine floors and soft white walls, the dining room strikes a balance between historic charm and understated elegance. A wood table anchors the space while white upholstered chairs and a classic black chandelier create a warm, inviting atmosphere for hosting loved ones.

“We also uncovered a pair of original pocket doors buried under layers of framing and veneers,” says Bridges. “We pulled them out, sanded them, finished them simply with a clear coating, and reinstalled them with new, soft-close hardware.”

Countertops: Granite Warehouse

Dark olive cabinetry steals the show in this modern kitchen, creating a bold yet sophisticated backdrop for the heart of the home. Color-drenched trim and ceilings in the same rich hue add depth and cohesion, while natural light keeps the space feeling bright and inviting.

“We love the way the floor turned out,” adds Bridges. “There was no existing floor there, so we needed something that would work well in transition with the original heart pine as you move through into the dining room. We chose a red oak, installed in a herringbone pattern, so that the difference between the old and new was well defined.”

Stainless-steel appliances provide modern convenience and durability, while Calacatta Viola marble countertops and backsplash introduce dramatic veining for an eye-catching finish. A reclaimed wood island offers additional prep space, seating, and a touch of natural elegance to the space.

“For the interior, we wanted to lean into the Victorian roots of the home – really expressing the ornament, detail, and bold choices typically associated with the style. The interiors were a direct reaction to the material palette, style, and history of the existing home.” – Michael Bridges, Surface Architecture & Design

Color-drenched in a soft white shade, the home’s ornate, built-up trim is brought into focus in the living room, showcasing its timeless character and craftmanship. Warm white furniture, complemented by olive green accents, continues the home’s color palette in a way that feels cohesive yet understated, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

The focal point of the room, a restored cast-iron fireplace, seamlessly bridges the home’s historic roots and updated design. Framed in marble and highlighted by custom millwork, the fireplace adds architectural interest and a touch
of elegance to the space.

A generous en suite accompanies the primary bedroom. Large-format, checkered tile draws the eye, while olive cabinetry and gold hardware and fixtures complete the room. Combining the best of historic and modern design, a frameless glass shower provides contemporary comfort and functionality, while a clawfoot tub hints at the home’s original character and offers an opportunity for relaxation and retreat.

In the bedroom, historic charm once again takes center stage, with exposed, painted brick, original heart pine floors, and stunning millwork. Soft white linens add to the room’s bright, airy feel, and touches of rusty red in the rug and throw pillows add a pleasant pop of color.

“In essence, this was a new home built within the shell of a 120-year-old one,” finishes Bridges. “We spent time studying the home and then did our best to help it tell its own story.”

Other suppliers:

Appliances and plumbing fixtures: Ferguson
Cabinetry: Wood Hollow Cabinets, Inc.
Custom installs and custom painting: Castillo Brothers Construction
Doors and trim: Builders FirstSource
Flooring: 1st Class Flooring
Landscaping: Denham Landscape
Tile: Louisville Tile
Windows: Latiff Historical