105-Year-Old Home Near Palmer Cemetery Undergoes Major Updates While Preserving Historical Features
In Fishtown, a vibrant neighborhood in Philadelphia, the story of Nicala La Reau’s home renovation embodies the intersection of modern conveniences with historic charm. When La Reau purchased her 105-year-old home in October 2024, she recognized its potential but also the considerable refurbishment it required, describing it as in dire need of a “full gut renovation.” The property, which originally featured five bedrooms and 1½ bathrooms, was adorned with outdated plumbing, electrical systems, and finishes, necessitating a comprehensive restructuring.
La Reau appreciated the home’s unique luxury for urban living, particularly its expansive backyard, where she cultivates a vegetable and herb garden alongside blooming roses. After embarking on her renovation journey, which lasted approximately six months, La Reau successfully modified the floor plan to feature four bedrooms and two full bathrooms, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the home. Noteworthy changes included an upgrade to the primary bathroom and the introduction of an open-concept layout on the first floor, seamlessly connecting the living, dining, and kitchen areas to the outdoor space.
The home’s design reflects La Reau’s personal style, which she attributes to her travels, particularly her time in Barcelona. As the North America marketing director for the international wedding dress designer Pronovias, her aesthetic vision is evident in the careful selection of finishes and design elements. She aimed to maintain the historic essence of the property while integrating modern touches, such as the restoration of hardwood floors, columns, and a marble fireplace, alongside an array of contemporary fixtures.
Strategically chosen neutral finishes create a timeless foundation, complemented by vibrant accents that honor the home’s vintage character. The recently renovated kitchen, essential for La Reau’s passion for cooking and baking, features a Kucht Gemstone KEG Series range that marries luxury and practicality with a stunning slate finish.
Located near historic Palmer Cemetery, La Reau’s home benefits from a unique ambiance marked by openness and greenery—qualities often absent in urban settings. The peaceful surroundings, along with the walkability to the eclectic establishments along Frankford Avenue, make Fishtown not only a place to live but a community to thrive in, fostering neighborly connections amidst ongoing urban development. La Reau concludes that the neighborhood’s blend of growth and tradition allows her to envision a long-term future in her beloved home.
For anyone interested in home renovations or community living, La Reau’s journey is a testament to the potential characteristics of urban properties, eloquently balancing modern living with historical appreciation.
