A sudden fire ocurred in September 2025, and it hit this house hard. When we walked through with the owners, the damage was fresh and overwhelming. But underneath the char and water damage, we found a solid historic home that deserved to come back stronger.
This wasn't going to be just a repair job. The owners saw an opportunity to thoughtfully convert this single-family home into two units: a two-bedroom apartment above and a one-bedroom below. In a historic neighborhood where housing is precious, this approach preserves the building while creating two quality homes where there was one.
Once we started pulling back the damaged materials, the house revealed itself. Under the aluminum siding, we found original wood clapboard. Behind fire-damaged walls, framing that's been standing strong for over a century. The foundation needs repointing, but it's good stonework that just needs proper attention.
The fire damage, as devastating as it was, gave us the chance to really understand this building. We could see how it was originally built, what was added over the years, and what needed to change to make this two-unit conversion work properly.
Getting the ARB's Certificate of Appropriateness was not only required, but crucial our vision. It confirms our plans respect the historic district while allowing this practical transformation. Here's how we're approaching it:
Two Distinct Homes: The upper unit will be a full two-bedroom apartment with its own entrance and private outdoor space. The lower unit becomes a well-appointed one-bedroom. Both units get proper sound separation, individual HVAC systems, and layouts that make sense for modern living.
Preserving Character: We're keeping everything worth saving. While the original flooring is likely not able to be replaced due to fire damage, we plan to replace with a new floor with sensitive design and color. Trim and molding profiles are being matched throughout. The windows that can be saved are being rebuilt to work properly and moved to the primary facade. Each unit will have its own character while respecting the building's history.
Infrastructure That Works: Running separate systems for two units in a 1909 building takes planning. New electrical panels for each unit. Separate HVAC systems that can be tucked away properly. Plumbing that meets code while working within old walls. Modern insulation throughout. All of this has to happen without destroying the details that make this building special.
The aluminum siding is being replaced with wood clapboard that matches what we found underneath. We're working with local suppliers to match original millwork profiles for both units. The foundation will be repointed with the right mortar mix for these old walls.
Where the fire destroyed original elements, we're rebuilding thoughtfully. New materials that complement the old. Hardware that feels appropriate to the period. Light fixtures that make sense. Both apartments will feel like they belong in this historic neighborhood while functioning like modern homes.
This project turns a fire-damaged single-family home into two quality rental units in Fredericksburg's historic district. Each apartment will be energy efficient, comfortable, and maintain the character that makes living in a historic building special.
When complete, from the street you'll see a beautifully restored 1909 home. Inside, two households will have well-designed spaces with modern amenities, period details, and the satisfaction of living in a piece of Fredericksburg history. That's the goal: honoring the past while serving the community's current needs.
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