Century-old Craftsman Cottage

We invite you to explore the T.E. Bowman House in Hickory, NC that is listed on the National Historic Register. When these homeowners decided to remodel their 1920s Craftsman cottage, they partnered with ICON Custom Builders for the transformation. 

Throughout this historic home renovation, our goal was to preserve the century-old home’s character and charm, while updating it for modern living. Our team specializes in blending the old with the new. 

This transformation included a kitchen renovation, as well as updates to the dining room, living room, and exterior. We also designed a study – that functions as both a home office and a library – which became the homeowners’ favorite space in the home.

The heart of the home – the kitchen – is now a space where family and friends love to gather. It’s equally beautiful and functional. 

Homeowners Donny and Beth Brown shared how they made certain design selections: “we chose materials and finishes that felt timeless, and that we knew we would love for years to come.”

The dark soapstone countertop is both durable and low-maintenance. The built-in buffet boasts white quartzite with gray veining and brightens up the space while providing a contrast to the soapstone. The gold hardware, faucet, and light fixtures add warmth. 

The walls are painted in Sherwin Williams Alabaster, creating a soft, neutral backdrop that allows the original oak flooring, trimwork, and architectural details to stand out. 

Ample storage space and improved functionality make this 1920s kitchen fit for modern living. Designed to enjoy daily and to entertain friends and family often, every detail accommodates the homeowners’ way of life.

Throughout the project, we carried out a design vision that celebrated the home’s original craftsmanship. One key way we accomplished this was by adding architectural details that look as though they’ve always been a part of the home. The dining room is a great example.

“Our contractor suggested adding wainscoting and additional moldings that fit the age of the home,” Beth said. “Those details made a tremendous difference.” 

Creative ideas like this are a benefit of working with a design-build team that specializes in preserving older homes. At ICON Custom Builders, our intention is to make modifications that meet the homeowner’s current needs, while incorporating design elements that are true to the time period – making it seem as though they’ve been there all along.

This creates a feeling of authenticity that can be lacking in some modern renovations.

The study is the homeowner’s favorite space. “As an English teacher and avid reader, I had always dreamed of a room lined with shelves and books,” she shared.

Project manager Luke added, “the client works from home, so it was important for us to give the space a cozy but professional look.”

We played with color intentionally in each space. Here in the study, the color-drenched navy walls pair with the antique oak desk and gold fixtures. This ultimately created a space that feels warm and inviting. It’s traditional with a modern twist. 

ICON’s master craftsman Don Guilbault created custom built-ins for the library – making the homeowners’ dream of floor to ceiling bookcases a reality. Beth said, “it’s the kind of room where you want to pour a cup of coffee, curl up with a book, and lose track of time.”

In addition to the interior updates, the exterior underwent a dramatic transformation as well. We gave the front facade a bit of a face lift by removing the enclosed screened-in porch and creating a covered porch instead. The front entrance became open and more welcoming. 

We preserved the traditional brick detail on the exterior, and kept the same color palette. However, we brightened up the green and added Sherwin Williams Shoji white trim for a nice contrast. 

“We were fortunate to inherit beautiful mature landscaping from the previous owner, an avid gardener,” shared Donny. “Our focus has been preserving it with a little tender loving care.”

“One of the greatest things about the renovation is that every room is used and enjoyed every day,” said Beth. “Today, the house feels brighter, warmer, and more intentional – without losing its historic character.”  To us, there is no greater compliment.

Although our team is based in Winston-Salem, we have recently expanded our home remodeling services to include other cities in North Carolina. This historic home renovation was ICON’s first project in Hickory, and we’d love the opportunity to transform more homes here!

Check out some photos, including a few “before and after” shots, below!