The House That Inspired 13th Avenue Interiors
- 13thavenueinterior
- Jan 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 21
In 2017, my husband and I, along with our then one-year-old son, purchased a home on 13th Avenue in South Minneapolis. It wasn’t just any house—it was a home with a story, lovingly cared for by the same family for 50 years. They had been incredible stewards, preserving the home’s history while making thoughtful additions over the decades. When it went up for sale, we saw its potential immediately. It had beautiful bones and a warmth that only a century-old home could possess.
However, while structurally sound, it needed some cosmetic TLC. It was clear that small updates would make a big impact—both in function and in creating a space that felt like ours. From the moment we stepped inside, we knew this house would be special. What we didn’t realize at the time was that this home would be the spark that turned my lifelong passion for old houses into a career.
Bringing New Life While Preserving the Past
Buying an old home comes with an unspoken responsibility—to honor its history while making it work for modern life. We approached every update with that philosophy in mind, aiming to:
Maintain the historic charm and character that made the home unique.
Improve functionality for our small but growing family.
Refresh and modernize its aesthetic while respecting its past.
Make necessary repairs to ensure its longevity for years to come.
We weren’t looking for a dramatic transformation. Instead, we focused on thoughtful updates that would breathe new life into the home while allowing its history to shine.
The Evolution of Our Home
Over the years, we have made both small and significant changes to improve the home’s function, comfort, and aesthetic—all while keeping its character intact. Some of the key updates include:
Aesthetic Refresh: One of the simplest yet most impactful changes we made was repainting and adding wallpaper. Fresh color choices helped brighten the space and better reflected our style while remaining true to the home’s era.
Structural Improvements: We tackled necessary repairs, including attic insulation and fireplace restoration, ensuring the home remained cozy and efficient while preserving its original craftsmanship.
Intentional Design Choices: Every material, fixture, and finish we selected was chosen with the home’s history in mind. We sought out timeless elements that felt like they had always belonged.
Personal Touches: While we respected the home’s past, we also made it our own—incorporating elements that reflected our personality and creating a space that truly felt like us.
Each update deepened my appreciation for what it means to live in an old home—not just to reside within its walls but to be a part of its ongoing story.
The Inspiration Behind 13th Avenue Interiors
As we worked on our home, I realized how much I loved the process of honoring an old house while making it functional for modern living. What started as a personal passion project evolved into something bigger. I became deeply invested in helping other homeowners navigate the unique challenges and joys of updating historic homes.
Eventually, I turned that passion into a career, launching 13th Avenue Interiors to help others bring out the best in their old homes. I knew firsthand how overwhelming renovations could be and how easy it was to make design choices that didn’t quite fit a home’s history. I also knew how rewarding it was when everything came together beautifully.
Helping You Write the Next Chapter in Your Home’s Story
If you’re living in an old home that doesn’t quite feel like you yet, I would love to help. At 13th Avenue Interiors, we specialize in full-service furnishings and remodels for South Minneapolis homes, blending historic charm with modern functionality.
Your home has a story to tell—let’s make sure it’s one you love living in. Reach out today to start your own transformation.
Creating Something Beautiful Together
If you have an old home in, or around, South Minneapolis and are wondering how to update it with expertise and ease, we’re here to help. Reach out today to learn how we can help guide you through the process with ease and expertise.
*Click photos to link to source. Images may contain affiliate links.
*This blog post was created with the assistance of AI in combination with 13th Avenue Interiors ideas, knowledge, expertise and experience.
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