Renovating a Home in Kenilworth, Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide

August 20, 2020

Renovating a home is always a significant undertaking, but doing so in Kenilworth, Illinois, adds a unique set of challenges and rewards. Located along the North Shore of Chicago, Kenilworth is one of the wealthiest and most exclusive communities in the United States. Known for its historic homes, excellent schools, and close-knit community, Kenilworth offers an idyllic setting for families. However, renovating a home in this prestigious village requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the local architectural standards and regulations.

Remodeling a Home in Kenilworth

Understanding Kenilworth’s Architectural Landscape
Kenilworth is renowned for its historic homes, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The architectural styles predominantly found here include Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Georgian, with some homes showcasing Prairie School influences, a style famously associated with architect Frank Lloyd Wright. When renovating a home in Kenilworth, it’s essential to consider the existing architectural style and the historical significance of the property. Preservation is often key, and any renovation must harmonize with the original design elements of the home and the surrounding neighborhood.

Navigating Local Regulations and Permits
Renovating a home in Kenilworth requires compliance with a set of strict local regulations. The town has a Historic Preservation Ordinance that aims to maintain the architectural integrity of its neighborhoods. Before beginning any renovation project, homeowners must obtain the necessary permits from the village’s Building and Zoning Department. This process involves submitting detailed plans for approval, which must adhere to local building codes and zoning laws. The town may also require approval from the Kenilworth Historic Preservation Commission, particularly for significant alterations to the exterior of a home. Understanding and navigating these regulations is crucial to ensure a smooth renovation process.

Choosing the Right Contractor in Kenilworth

Given the complexity of renovating a historic home in a prestigious area like Kenilworth, selecting the right contractor is critical. Homeowners should look for contractors with experience in historic renovations, as they will have the expertise to manage the challenges that come with older homes, such as outdated wiring, plumbing, and structural issues. Additionally, a good contractor will be familiar with local building codes and have a track record of successfully navigating the permit approval process in Kenilworth.

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Below are some additional issues that you may want to consider:

1. Budgeting for Your Renovation
Renovating a home in Kenilworth can be a significant financial investment, especially if the home is older and requires extensive work. It’s essential to create a comprehensive budget that accounts for all aspects of the renovation, including construction costs, materials, permits, and unexpected expenses that often arise during the renovation of older properties. Additionally, given Kenilworth’s high property values, homeowners should consider the potential return on investment (ROI) of their renovation. While the primary goal is often to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing home, it’s also important to consider how the renovation will impact the home’s value in the future.

2. Balancing Modern Amenities with Historical Integrity
One of the key challenges of renovating a home in Kenilworth is balancing the desire for modern amenities with the need to preserve the historical integrity of the property. Many of the homes in Kenilworth were built before the advent of modern conveniences, and updating these homes to include features such as open floor plans, state-of-the-art kitchens, and smart home technology requires careful planning. The goal should be to integrate these modern features in a way that complements the original architecture of the home. For example, when installing new windows or doors, homeowners should choose styles that match the period of the home, and when updating interiors, it’s often best to retain original elements such as moldings, fireplaces, and hardwood floors.

3. Landscaping and Curb Appeal
In a community like Kenilworth, where the exterior appearance of homes is highly valued, landscaping plays a crucial role in the overall renovation process. Homeowners should invest in high-quality landscaping that complements the architectural style of their home and enhances curb appeal. This might include restoring or enhancing historic gardens, installing period-appropriate fencing, and ensuring that any new outdoor structures, such as garages or patios, blend seamlessly with the existing home and surrounding properties.

4. The Importance of Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in home renovations, even in historic communities like Kenilworth. While preserving the historical integrity of a home is paramount, there are ways to incorporate sustainable practices into the

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Reviews

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- Judy Zhang -

I recently used Chi Renovation and Design, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. They did a fantastic job. The process was relatively painless from start to finish. It was incredibly easy to work with both my Designer and Project Manager – they were both responsive and thorough. The whole team was very professional and respectful of my home. I would highly recommend Chi Renovation and Design to anyone thinking of a home renovation project.

- Kristy -

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We were pleased with the work of Chi Renovation and Design. Lior was prompt when providing an initial quote, which was detailed and clearly presented. The result of the reconstruction looks great! Lior and his team even finished the job in less time than expected and cleaned up after the project's conclusion. We found the total cost for the services provided to be reasonable and would highly recommend Chi Renovation and Design.

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