Preserving Niagara’s Character: Designing Around History and Heritage

Niagara is a region steeped in history. From the heritage homes of Niagara-on-the-Lake to century houses in Niagara Falls and farmsteads across the peninsula, the area’s architectural character tells a story — one of craftsmanship, proportion, and enduring design.

For homeowners lucky enough to live in these historic properties, the challenge isn’t whether to modernize — it’s how to modernize without erasing what makes the home special.

At De Simone Designs, we specialize in helping Niagara homeowners preserve architectural character while adapting homes for contemporary living. Thoughtful restoration doesn’t freeze a home in time — it allows history and modern comfort to coexist seamlessly.

Why Preserving Character Matters in Niagara

Historic homes are more than structures — they are cultural assets. Original millwork, masonry, proportions, and materials reflect a time when homes were built with longevity and detail in mind.

Preserving character:

• Maintains architectural integrity

• Protects long-term property value

• Honors Niagara’s cultural identity

• Enhances resale appeal

• Creates homes with depth and authenticity

Buyers and homeowners alike are drawn to homes that feel rooted — not generic.

1. Understanding the Home’s Architectural DNA

Every heritage home has a design language. Before making any changes, it’s essential to understand what defines the home’s character.

This may include:

• Window proportions and placement

• Roof pitch and massing

• Original trim profiles

• Masonry or cladding materials

• Door styles and symmetry

At De Simone Designs, our process begins with architectural analysis — identifying what must be preserved, what can be enhanced, and where modern updates can integrate naturally.

2. Old-World Craftsmanship Worth Saving

Many older Niagara homes contain craftsmanship that would be prohibitively expensive — or impossible — to replicate today.

Examples include:

• Solid wood doors

• Handcrafted staircases

• Plaster moldings

• Original hardwood flooring

• Exposed brick or stone walls

Rather than removing these elements, we design around them — restoring, refinishing, or reinterpreting them so they continue to anchor the home’s identity.

3. Blending Heritage With Modern Living

Modern families require layouts and amenities that older homes were never designed for. The key is integration, not imitation.

Open Living — With Respect

Instead of fully removing walls, we may:

• Introduce wider openings

• Add arches or cased transitions

• Use ceiling beams to define zones

• Preserve original room proportions

This maintains architectural rhythm while improving flow.

Modern Kitchens in Historic Homes

Kitchens can feel contemporary without clashing by:

• Using classic cabinet profiles with modern interiors

• Selecting natural materials like stone and wood

• Hiding modern appliances behind paneling

• Preserving original windows and sightlines

The result feels timeless rather than trendy.

4. Windows, Doors & Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest challenges in heritage homes is upgrading performance without compromising appearance.

Solutions often include:

• Custom wood or clad windows that match original profiles

• Storm window systems for insulation

• Restoring original frames where possible

• Upgrading insulation discreetly within walls and attics

These improvements significantly enhance comfort while preserving exterior character.

5. Navigating Heritage Guidelines & Approvals

Many Niagara properties fall under:

• Heritage Conservation Districts

• Municipal heritage designation

• Niagara-on-the-Lake heritage bylaws

This doesn’t mean renovation is impossible — it simply means it must be thoughtfully planned.

De Simone Designs assists homeowners by:

• Preparing heritage-sensitive drawings

• Liaising with municipal planners

• Proposing design solutions that respect guidelines

• Balancing compliance with livability

Early planning prevents delays and protects the project’s success.

6. Additions That Feel Like They Belong

When heritage homes need more space, additions must feel intentional — not like an afterthought.

Best practices include:

• Setting additions slightly back from the original façade

• Using complementary (not identical) materials

• Matching rooflines and window proportions

• Keeping additions visually secondary to the original home

This approach allows the home’s history to remain the focal point while providing modern square footage.

7. Interior Updates That Honour the Past

Inside, we often blend:

• Original trim with updated paint palettes

• Heritage fireplaces with modern lighting

• Antique textures with clean contemporary furnishings

• Traditional layouts with updated functionality

Colour choices inspired by Niagara’s landscape — stone greys, soft whites, warm woods — help unify old and new.

8. Value, Longevity & Market Appeal

Well-executed heritage renovations consistently outperform generic remodels. Buyers recognize the difference between preserved character and stripped-down charm.

Thoughtful restoration:

• Increases resale confidence

• Attracts design-conscious buyers

• Preserves long-term equity

• Avoids regret-driven renovations

In Niagara’s competitive housing market, character is a powerful asset.

The De Simone Approach to Heritage Design

At De Simone Designs, we approach historic homes with respect, creativity, and technical expertise.

Our process includes:

• Architectural documentation and analysis

• Code-compliant, BCIN-certified drawings

• Heritage-sensitive design strategies

• Collaboration with planners and contractors

• Modern solutions that feel timeless

We don’t believe in choosing between history and comfort — we believe you can have both.

Preserve the Past. Design for the Future.

Your home’s history deserves to be celebrated — not erased. With the right design approach, heritage homes can support modern lifestyles while retaining the character that makes them truly special.

📍 Serving Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, and surrounding areas.

👉 Contact De Simone Designs today to begin your heritage-focused renovation or restoration project.