When Stacie told us she was redoing the front of her stunning home in Richmond’s Historic Fan district, we knew the result would be impressive. She’s surprised us before with her impeccable style in earlier projects, so we braced ourselves for something special when we heard about this exterior makeover. Between Stacie’s thoughtful vision and the skilled craftsmanship that went into the work, the transformation of the house is truly remarkable.
Stacie worked with a local restoration specialist, Eric Schmoldt of Advantage Construction, who focused on preserving the historic character of the home while making modern, clean improvements. Eric’s careful approach and attention to detail meant that nothing was rushed or compromised—elements of the original architecture were respected and reinforced, and every addition was made to complement the home’s classic lines.
The project moved through clear phases: initial repairs and stabilization, thoughtful updates to the façade and entryway, and the finishing touches that give a home enduring curb appeal. During the process, practical improvements were made alongside aesthetic choices—repaired trim, refreshed masonry, updated porch details, and fresh paint that harmonizes with the neighborhood’s historic palette.
Below are a few images captured during the renovation that show the progress as the house evolved from its original state to something revitalized and refined.
The finished exterior reflects a thoughtful balance between restoration and refresh. The updated entryway and carefully chosen colors bring renewed life to the façade while still honoring the home’s original character. Small decisions—like replacing worn trim, refinishing railings, and selecting hardware with a historic feel—add up to a cohesive, elevated look.
The contrast between the before and after is striking. What once looked tired and in need of attention now reads as thoughtfully restored and refreshed. That kind of change is a great reminder that a house’s exterior often has untapped potential—especially older homes with strong architectural bones. With the right combination of preservation-minded repair and tasteful updates, the curb appeal can be dramatically improved without losing the home’s original charm.
Hats off to Stacie for her vision and to the craftspeople who carried it out. It’s projects like this that showcase how preservation and contemporary updates can work together to honor a neighborhood’s history while making a home feel renewed and welcoming.
Note: We’re selling our slipcovered Pottery Barn sofa, which still looks nearly new thanks to washable slipcovers. It’s available locally on Craigslist; if you’re interested, search the listing there and contact the seller through that platform.