Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1496538
T he cities of the Puget Sound are relatively young, but they boast an impressive array of classic early-twentieth- century homes. From Victorian mansions to Modernist masterpieces, these houses speak to our region's history and aesthetic sensibilities. But all things age, and the remaining pockets of these old-timers need special care to keep on impressing. Thankfully, lovers of these homes are well-served by remodelers, contractors, and architects who've made renovation and restoration part of their trade. It's not easy preserving the original charm of an old house while adhering to modern code and meeting a client's goals. I reached out to two companies with reputations for quality, JM Bogan Remodeling and Blue Sound Construction, to get a sense of how they navigate this tricky, three-way balancing act. Learning From the Classics Established in 1977, Fall City-based JM Bogan Remodeling takes a customer- centric approach to residential and commercial projects. As a design-build company that integrates planning and construction from the start, their work runs the gamut of remodels, restorations, and custom work. The company, now in its second generation, was founded by J. Michael Bogan over 46 years ago. Michael already had ample experience in residential remodeling when he began working in historic neighborhoods in Bellingham and Whatcom County, so restoration was a natural fit. "I possessed a basic understanding of geometry [essential to the design of many older homes], a good work ethic, and a desire to learn," Michael says. "There were Victorians and Craftsman Bungalows, log homes and barns. I fell in love with the craft and found opportunities to do some wonderful things." When it comes to style, Michael admires a wide range of old homes, but ultimately it's about the client. "Whether the home is painted or stained, on Queen Anne Hill or the mountains, producing what the client wants is what matters most." And it's achieving their vision that Michael finds most satisfying. For Blue Sound Construction, a Seattle-based construction company established in 2006, working with old homes was something they always knew they wanted to do. With a high level of technical knowledge and craft, they felt they When architects are careful to maintain the proportions, regulating lines, and character of the original, there's a sort of harmony that reverberates throughout both the home and its surroundings. COURTENAY GEBHARDT, Blue Sound Construction PHOTO: MIRANDA ESTES PHOTOGRAPHY 25 SPRING 2023 | master BUILDER