A full remodel isn’t just about making a house look pretty—it’s about creating a space that truly works for you. Whether you’re reconfiguring your floor plan, adding modern touches, or restoring vintage charm, the possibilities are endless.

Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Sugar House is a neighborhood that holds its own as one of Utah’s most charming and historic areas. With its tree-lined streets, unique architecture, and vibrant community, it's no wonder millennials are flocking here. But as beautiful as Sugar House is, many of its older homes are in dire need of some TLC. Whether you're looking to modernize, increase functionality, or simply turn your home into a showstopper, a full remodel can breathe new life into your space.

Let’s walk through a real-life Sugar House remodel, explore the ins and outs of transforming these older gems, and inspire you to create the house of your dreams!

Why Remodel a Sugar House Home?

Sugar House homes are beloved for their history and charm. Many were built during the early to mid-20th century and come with features like bomb shelters, quirky floor plans, and solid craftsmanship. But older homes often have outdated layouts, inefficient systems, and underutilized spaces.

A full remodel allows you to:

Maximize Functionality: Create open-concept spaces or reconfigure the floor plan for modern living.
Preserve Character: Retain the charm while incorporating modern finishes.
Increase Value: A thoughtfully remodeled home in this sought-after neighborhood can yield impressive returns.
Personalize: Build a home that fits your lifestyle, from custom kitchens to meditation rooms.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Full Remodel

1. Start With a Vision

Every remodel begins with a dream. What does your ideal home look like? Maybe it’s a modern farmhouse with a minimalist vibe or a bold mid-century revival. The key is to balance style with function while respecting the home’s original charm.

In the Sugar House remodel we’re highlighting, the homeowners had a vision to:

Reconfigure the entire floor plan.
Add a meditation room and gym.
Modernize outdated spaces like the kitchen and bathrooms.
Retain unique elements like the bomb shelter, blending the old with the new.

2. Exterior Transformation

The first impression matters, and for older homes, curb appeal can make or break the vibe. In this remodel, the outdated siding was stripped and replaced, while a poorly constructed addition was removed and rebuilt.

The homeowners opted for a stick-built roofline that seamlessly ties into the original structure. This move eliminated the “tacked-on” feel of the previous addition and created a cohesive look.

Pro Tip: Invest in timeless exterior upgrades, such as fiber cement siding or wood accents. Pair them with modern fixtures and landscaping to create a picture-perfect home.

3. Reimagining the Floor Plan

One of the most significant challenges with older homes is the layout. Back in the day, homes were designed with smaller, segmented rooms and less thought to flow.

For this remodel:

The kitchen was relocated to the back of the home for a more functional design.
A meditation room replaced the old kitchen space, creating a peaceful retreat.
The staircase, which previously obstructed the entryway, was moved further into the house, improving the overall flow.

Pro Tip: An open-concept layout doesn’t mean tearing down every wall. Find the right balance between openness and purpose by creating defined zones within your home.

4. Designing the Primary Suite

Primary suites are a must-have for today’s buyers, but many Sugar House homes lack one. This remodel added a spacious primary bedroom, reconfigured the en suite bathroom, and even included a walk-in closet.

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious retreat:

Incorporate modern fixtures like a rain shower or soaking tub.
Use natural materials like wood, stone, or organic textures for a serene vibe.
Add a private outdoor connection, such as French doors leading to a patio.

5. Making Use of the Basement

Basements in older homes are often dark and underutilized, but they have incredible potential. In this remodel, the basement was completely gutted and reframed to create:

A gym with hidden mechanical systems for a clean aesthetic.
A Jack-and-Jill bathroom connecting two bedrooms, making the space functional and family-friendly.

Pro Tip: Raise the ceilings if possible, add larger egress windows, and use light-colored finishes to make your basement feel like an extension of the main floor.

6. Modernizing Systems

Behind the scenes, a full remodel is the perfect time to update the “bones” of your home. Many Sugar House homes have outdated plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. In this project:

The ductwork was tightened and rerouted to maximize usable square footage.
Modern HVAC systems were installed to improve energy efficiency.
The foundation and framing were strengthened to meet modern building codes.

While these updates aren’t as glamorous as the design choices, they’re essential for long-term safety and comfort.

7. Kitchen Goals: Heart of the Home

In this remodel, the kitchen moved to a new location, providing a fresh slate for design. The new kitchen will flow seamlessly into the living and dining areas, creating a perfect space for entertaining.

For your Sugar House kitchen remodel:

Opt for clean lines, open shelving, and hidden storage to maximize space.
Add trendy elements like an oversized island, gold hardware, or a statement backsplash.
Incorporate energy-efficient appliances to reduce your carbon footprint.

Pro Tip: Use natural light to your advantage! Install large windows or skylights to brighten the space and make it feel bigger.

8. Unique Features: Make It Yours

What makes a house feel like home? The unique, personal touches that reflect your lifestyle. In this remodel, the homeowners added a meditation room and retained the home’s WWII-era bomb shelter, blending history with modern functionality.

Consider adding trendy yet practical spaces like:

A home office with built-in storage.
A cozy reading nook under the stairs.
A wine cellar or speakeasy-style bar in the basement.

The Trendy Sugar House Vibe

Millennials are all about blending the old and the new, and Sugar House homes offer the perfect canvas. Here’s how to capture that trendy vibe in your remodel:

Natural Elements: Use organic materials like wood, stone, and greenery to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Sustainability: Focus on energy-efficient systems, repurposed materials, and eco-friendly finishes.
Modern Design: Incorporate clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist decor while retaining charming vintage details.

Tips for a Smooth Remodel

Work With Professionals: Hire experienced contractors who specialize in older homes.
Set a Realistic Budget: Plan for unexpected expenses, especially with older properties.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your plans as issues arise during construction.
Preserve History: Retain unique architectural elements like original woodwork, fireplaces, or stained glass.
Plan for the Future: Consider how your needs may change in the next 5–10 years.

So, if you’re a proud Sugar House homeowner ready to turn your old home into a modern gem, now’s the time to start dreaming big. Embrace the challenge, trust the process, and enjoy every step of transforming your house into a place you’ll love for years to come.