Since LY Custom Homes primarily builds homes in the Memorial Area of Houston, the question we get asked often from potential clients is whether they should remodel or tear down. Specifically, there are an influx of remodels/new constructions in the Memorial West area, which is the Memorial area west of the Beltway 8. This area was first developed in the 1960s when there was a rapid growth westwards of the Houston metropolitan area. This lead to the development of subdivisions in the Memorial West area, including Wilchester, Nottingham Forest, Westchester and Memorial Bend. These residential areas are especially charming because each home is uniquely styled. Some examples of the home styles are Traditional, Craftsman, Colonial, Georgian, French, Southern Traditional, Cottage style, English, and the list goes on.
Currently, the Memorial West area is still a desirable area for families due to the tall trees, close-knit communities, highly rated schools, and proximity to the Energy Corridor, as well as inside the loop. But, these charming homes are now over half-a-century old. Thus, a family moving into one of these original 1960s homes must invest a great deal of money to update the house. At the very minimum, one will need to update the plumbing, electrical, and mechanical for an older home. While the home is being opened up for these major component changes, it is a perfect time to make cosmetic changes as well.
To answer the question as to whether to remodel or tear down depends on the clients’ budget and expectations for their new home. Recall that in early 2020, Ly Custom Homes finished a new build in Memorial West where the clients decided to tear down the existing home. In the latter half of 2020, another client decided to go the other route and gut/remodel their Wilchester home. Below are the “Before” and “After” photos of this major remodel. Demolition started in February 2020 and despite the pandemic, the family moved into their newly remodeled home by October 2020, just in time for the holidays.
Front Exterior - Before.
Front Exterior - After. We added a white mortar fill to brighten up the brick, installed new windows and front door, and brightened up the walkway to the home.
Front Exterior - After. We replaced the wood siding that had rotted over the years with a more durable hardy plank siding, along with fresh coat of white paint.
Backyard - Before. The back side of the home was flat with no covered area for seating.
Backyard- In Construction. We built an extension to the home, to accommodate for a master wing with a full-size bathroom, bedroom, and walk-in closet. We also built a covered patio for a great outdoor living space.
Backyard - After. Now the family has a cozy space to relax outdoors and entertain guests. In the Texas summers, the #BigAssFan will help circulate the air.
The Entry - Before.
The Entry - After. We installed wood tile on top of the existing terrazzo and swapped out the railing for a metal modern look.
The Entry - After.
Great Room - Before.
Great Room - After. Goodbye wood paneling! We made the fireplace taller by removing the raised hearth. We also removed the awkward brick extension of the fireplace, which allowed for more cabinet storage space.
Kitchen - Before. This kitchen was ready for a makeover.
Kitchen - After. The highlight of this beautiful kitchen is definitely the made-to-order backsplash, which uses a combination of gold accent metal and Carrara marble.
Bar Area - Before.
Bar Area - After. The homeowner had purchased these antique cabinet doors years ago and was thrilled to showcase them in her entertainment area.
Secondary Bathroom - Before.
Secondary Bathroom - After.
Secondary Bathroom Shower - Before.
Secondary Bathroom Shower - After.
Vanity - Before. Like many homes built circa 1960s, there is a vanity in bedroom. This was convenient for their daughter’s room, so we kept it and gave the vanity a makeover, as you can see below.
Vanity - After.
Utility Room - After.
Master Bath - After.
Powder Bath - After. This powder bath with the colorful wallpaper and gold fixtures is simply stunning.