How to Restore a Californian Bungalow

Begin at the Beginning

• Original floor plans, if available, will reveal how the house was laid out before any renovations or additions changed it. If you don’t have access to your home’s plans, historical floor plans for bungalows like yours may be available in the library, online or in local government archives. Old photographs show period details, placement of cabinets and built-ins, wainscoting and chair rails, lighting and kitchen layout. A building inspector or qualified architect can examine your home for any structural issues or problems that will need to be resolved in the course of restoration.

Natural Woodwork

• Floors and woodwork such as door and window frames are best replaced or refinished with reclaimed lumber from old bungalows or construction salvage wherever possible before moving in. Floor board replacement, sanding, staining and finishing are messy jobs that are easier to tackle when the house is vacant. California-style bungalows used unpainted wood throughout the home and most wood tones were matched.

Tubs and Picture Tiles

• Bathroom fixtures like reproduction tubs, toilets and sinks or vintage fixtures preserve authenticity. Arts and Crafts picture tiles are trim enhancements when used as a “chair rail” line of tiles set in a white tile backsplash over the sink or bordering the solid color tile on the lower half of the bathroom walls. Reproduction tile is more affordable and practical than collector’s pieces.

Arts and Crafts Kitchen

• Kitchen renovations should feature period appliances. An old stove is the easiest find and can be repaired to work efficiently. Arts and Crafts honey- or red-toned wood cabinet finishes and period hardware and sink fixtures create the sense of the original design. Under-cabinet and Tiffany-style pendant lighting highlight work and eating areas. Reproductions provide a practical but harmonious update and are easy to find online and in specialty home and hardware stores. Linoleum is an authentic and green kitchen floor covering.