Woman "Unflips" 1920s Detroit Home

The "unflipped" 1920s Detroit home is a four-bedroom, 3,500-square-foot house located in one of the city's historic neighborhoods. The new owner, 31-year-old destination wedding photographer Niki Marie Taylor, and her husband purchased the property in the fall of 2023. Taylor was drawn to the home's "timeless architectural elements" but felt the previous owners' modern renovations were out of place. The goal of the "unflipping" was to restore the home's original 1920s character, moving away from a minimalist, white-washed aesthetic. One of the most significant changes was in the entryway, where faux marble tiles were replaced with a classic black-and-white checkered marble-and-granite floor to complement the grand staircase. In the kitchen, modern butcher-block countertops were swapped for more period-appropriate textured white counters. To manage costs, Taylor and her husband undertook much of the renovation work themselves with the help of family. Taylor's father and husband contributed to the labor, and her aunt, a Chicago-area artist, was commissioned to paint a mural in the home. This DIY approach is a key element of the "unflipping" trend, which often prioritizes personal craftsmanship over the quick, profit-driven renovations of typical house flips. Detroit's housing market has become a target for investors, with the city's low property prices offering attractive profit margins for traditional flips. Neighborhoods like Bagley, Grandmont-Rosedale, and East English Village have been popular spots for these renovations. The "unflipping" movement presents a contrast, emphasizing historical preservation and authenticity over modern trends. Renovating a historic home in Detroit can be a significant financial undertaking, with costs potentially ranging from $100 to $300 per square foot, depending on the extent of the work. Structural repairs, custom fixtures, and compliance with historic district standards can add tens of thousands to a project's budget. Homes from the 1920s in Detroit often feature distinct architectural styles such as Tudor Revival, with its characteristic half-timbering, or Colonial Revival, known for its symmetrical facades and detailed doorways. Other popular styles from the era in the area include Mediterranean and Neoclassical designs. The trend of "unflipping" reflects a growing desire among some homeowners to act as stewards to historic properties. This involves researching a home's original design and sourcing period-appropriate materials and fixtures to restore its unique character. While house flipping in Detroit has contributed to rising property values, the "unflipping" movement champions a different kind of value. Proponents believe that restoring a home's original architectural integrity can increase its value by up to 30% more than a standard modern renovation.