Restoring the historic Wellesley Tudor in Minneapolis, MN, has been an exciting journey filled with unique challenges (remember when someone stole the copper pipes in the night?) and beautiful transformations. We’ve loved sharing the journey with you on our YouTube channel! As we continue to restore this charming home to its former glory, our focus is on preserving its historic character while incorporating modern efficiency and amenities. In this episode, we’ve got some fresh exterior updates, including siding, windows, doors, and the long-neglected front stoop. Let’s dive in.

New Windows & Doors

The previous door wasn’t salvageable, so our friends at Pella hooked us up with a new front door that fits the style of this historic home perfectly. We kept the arch style and didn’t have to change the stone trim at all. It’s completely winterized and will last years! We had previously swatched some colors and selected brick red, but the rich, warm brown of this door will pair perfectly with the new siding.

On to the windows! Just like the door, Pella’s specialists helped us select new windows that lend seamlessly to the historic charm of the Tudor while increasing efficiency, and they’ve finally arrived for installation. Some of the windows increased in size without changing the trim at all.

Contractor Pro Tip: Sometimes, windows and other large project purchases can take a little longer to arrive. Make sure to place orders early to prevent delays.

Because the home’s design changed a few times due to regulations and property lines, it took a while to order the windows, which delayed the project timeline by about three weeks. Now that we have them, we can install them and work towards passing our framing inspection before insulating and adding drywall. We’re so close to seeing the interior come together!

Thanks again to Pella for sponsoring this series and assisting us with such important aspects of this project. The new door and windows will add decades to the longevity of Wellesley and match the aesthetic flawlessly.

Garage Updates

While we waited on the windows, we were able to install the garage door on the all-new, 2-car detached garage that we built off the alley. This home originally had an attached garage, which we demolished to make room to bump out the basement and build an addition. With the garage’s structure complete, we were ready to trench and run wiring, but the Minnesota weather had other plans – freezing temps and lots of snow. We had to wait a few weeks for the cold to subside so the ground would thaw enough for us to dig. Patience is key with construction work!

Stucco Siding

As the temperature rose, we were able to work on the exterior window trim and install stucco panels! We wanted to match the style of the house, so we avoided installing LP vertically or horizontally. These panels came pre-finished, but we’ll be painting them Intricate Ivory by Sherwin-Williams to warm things up with a modern nod to the Tudor era. The trim will get a few coats of French Roast, which will complement the new front door perfectly.

We’ve loved working with series sponsor Materio to design the Wellesley updates on their user-friendly platform. The lifelike renders have made it so easy to visualize the remodel, and it’s easier than ever to communicate with clients! The platform also tracks material used, offers clients the ability to approve or decline them in real-time, and keeps track of the budget so you know exactly what the project costs at any given moment. Use code MOONSTONE for 30% off your first month with Materio.

Front Stoop Repair

When we began restoring the Wellesley, we knew the front steps would require some TLC, and we’re finally ready to start. Many of the flagstones have fallen out of the front of the steps, leaving gaps that are unsightly and a little dangerous. We’ve got new flagstones on the way to install on the step faces.

The metal railing is original to the house, so it’ll receive a thorough sanding and refresh with paint to match the exterior trim. Above the steps, we’ve installed gutters at the front of the house. This area has seen the most water intrusion, and directing water away with gutters has significantly improved the issue. The curb appeal is skyrocketing quickly, and landscaping work is boosting it even further – neighbors, prepare to slow down to check out the impressive facelift on these old digs!

Coming Soon on the Wellesley Tudor Revival Series

Next up on the YouTube series (have you been following along?), we’ll work on some major restoration projects: refinishing the antique claw-foot tub, tiling the fireplace, and installing the wallpaper in the dining room that we selected in our first episode. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel and follow us on Instagram for real-time updates!