⸻Exterior REMODEL PROJECT · DALLAS
North Dallas Exterior Remodel
A 1970s home, fully reimagined from the Outside.
Transforming a dated 1970s mansard-roof residence into an elegant French Eclectic estate, this award-winning exterior renovation resolved long-standing roof issues while dramatically enhancing curb appeal, functionality, and architectural character.
| PROJECT - Exterior Renovation | |
|---|---|
| Investment (2026 Estimate) | $575K-$625K |
| Duration | 12 - 14 Weeks |
| Completion | Summer 2011 |
| Awards | 2014 NARI CotY |
| Spaces Transformed | Exterior |
| Exterior Renovation | 3,000–4,000 Sqft |
Exterior Renovation
2014 NARI CotY Winner — Exterior Remodel over $100,000
⸻ THE CHALLENGE
An exterior layout that had outlived its usefulness.
The owners of this 1972 mansard-roofed home were frustrated by years of recurring roof leaks and costly repairs. Beyond resolving these persistent issues, they envisioned a dramatic façade transformation that would elevate the home's appearance and create a lasting architectural statement.
Working alongside the architect, a French Eclectic design was selected for its timeless elegance, visual interest, and ability to be successfully integrated into the existing structure. The challenge was to completely reimagine the home's exterior while preserving its underlying framework and creating a more functional, durable roofing system.
01
Roof System Transformation
The centerpiece of the renovation was the complete replacement of the original mansard roof with a steeply pitched French Eclectic roof design.
The new roof configuration eliminated the flat roof areas responsible for ongoing water intrusion while creating a more dramatic and visually appealing architectural profile. Multiple hipped roof sections, flared eaves, and carefully integrated dormers established the home's new identity.
02
Enhanced Entry Experience
A completely redesigned front entry was constructed to create a stronger focal point and improve the overall arrival experience.
The enhanced entry structure provides superior weather protection while adding depth, scale, and architectural interest to the front elevation. The combination of masonry detailing, roof elements, and carefully proportioned design creates a more welcoming and elegant entrance.
03
LAUNDRY ROOM UPGRADE
New dormers were incorporated into both wings of the home as part of the roof redesign.
Beyond their architectural value, these dormers created usable space beneath the newly constructed roof system. Adjacent to the children's bedrooms, the additional square footage became functional play areas while maintaining the symmetry characteristic of French Eclectic architecture.
04
Masonry & Architectural Detailing
A key objective of the project was creating an authentic French Eclectic appearance while remaining mindful of budget and long-term maintenance.
Rather than replacing the entire exterior with stone veneer, the design incorporated natural stone accents alongside the existing brick veneer. Cast stone string courses, decorative quoins, custom window surrounds, and wood corbels were carefully integrated throughout the façade.
05
Superior Craftsmanship
Precision was essential to the success of the design. Because symmetry is a defining characteristic of French Eclectic architecture, every dormer, window, roof flare, and decorative element required meticulous placement and alignment.
06
Overcoming Construction Challenges
Removing the existing roof while protecting the home from weather required careful planning and coordination. To minimize risk, the framing and roofing teams divided construction into six separate phases.
Each phase was framed, decked, and immediately dried-in using 180-day UV-rated synthetic underlayment before moving to the next section.
⸻ FUNCTIONAL ENHANCEMENTS
Every decision improved how the home works.
Roof Performance
The new pitched roof design permanently resolved the recurring leaks associated with the original mansard roof while improving drainage and reducing future maintenance requirements.
Additional Usable Space
New dormers created functional bonus areas adjacent to the children's bedrooms, transforming previously unusable attic space into valuable living areas.
Improved Safety & Security
Integrated architectural lighting increases visibility around the home while highlighting key design features and enhancing nighttime security.
Long-Term Value
By combining improved functionality with timeless French Eclectic architecture, the renovation significantly increased the home's curb appeal, durability, and overall value.
⸻ Project Gallery
The finished spaces.
⸻ MATERIALS & FINISHES
A lighter, brighter palette chosen for longevity.
Every material selected for the Residence renovation was chosen to support the home's new French Eclectic character while delivering long-term durability and value. The design team carefully blended existing brick with natural stone, cast stone accents, and architectural roofing elements to create a cohesive exterior that feels both timeless and authentic. From the steeply pitched rooflines to the decorative masonry details, each finish was selected to enhance the home's architectural presence while maintaining compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. The result is a refined exterior that combines classic European-inspired design with modern performance and low-maintenance materials.
| Finish Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Roofing | Architectural Composition Shingles |
| Roof Accents | Standing Seam Metal Roofing |
| Stone Veneer | Natural Stone |
| Architectural | Cast Stone Quoins |
| Dormers | Hardie Smooth Panels & Trim |
| Entry Structure | Custom Masonry & Cast Stone Details |
| Exterior Lighting | Integrated Up-Lighting & Down-Lighting |
| Masonry Features | Segmental Brick Arches & Custom Brick Detailing |
⸻ PROBLEM SOLVING
Three challenges that required creative solutions.
01
Roof Leaks & Outdated Design
The homeowners were dealing with continual roof leaks and repairs caused by the home's original mansard roof and flat roof sections. They wanted a permanent solution that would eliminate maintenance issues while completely transforming the home's appearance.
02
Creating a New Architectural Style Within an Existing Structure
The goal wasn't simply to replace the roof—it was to convert a 1972 home into an authentic French Eclectic residence. The team had to adapt steep hipped roofs, dormers, stone detailing, and other architectural elements to the existing structure while maintaining proper proportions and symmetry throughout the design.
03
Keeping the Home Protected During Complex Roof Reconstruction
Because the entire roof system was being rebuilt, protecting the home from weather during construction was critical. The team overcame this challenge by framing and decking the roof in six phases and drying in each section immediately with UV-rated synthetic underlayment before moving to the next stage. This prevented significant water intrusion during construction.
⸻ PROJECT INVESTMENT
Exterior transformation projects like this typically range $300k–$450k
This project involved far more than a simple roof replacement. The scope included the complete removal and reconstruction of the existing mansard roof system, structural framing modifications, custom dormer construction, enhanced entry architecture, extensive masonry improvements, cast stone detailing, exterior lighting integration, and the careful coordination of multiple architectural finishes to achieve an authentic French Eclectic design.
Beyond the materials and craftsmanship, the investment reflects the expertise required to successfully transform an existing home while maintaining structural integrity and protecting the property throughout construction. Complex projects like this require careful planning, sequencing, and coordination to ensure every architectural element—from rooflines and dormers to masonry details and exterior finishes—works together seamlessly.
For more than 35 years, Traver Construction has specialized in complex residential renovations throughout Dallas, helping homeowners reimagine existing homes with thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship, and lasting value.
| PROJECT - Interior Renovation | |
|---|---|
| Roof Reconstruction & Structural Framing | $125k–$175k |
| Custom Dormers & Architectural Roof Details | $40k–$70k |
| Entry Enhancement & Exterior Millwork | $25k–$50k |
| Stone Veneer & Masonry Improvements | $50k–$90k |
| Cast Stone Architectural Details | $20k–$40k |
| Exterior Lighting & Electrical Upgrades | $10k–$20k |
| PAINTING | $25k–$35k |
| Design, Project Management & General Conditions | $30k–$50k |
| TYPICAL TOTAL INVESTMENT TODAY | $300k–$450k |
|---|
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does an Exterior remodel of this scale cost in Dallas?
A Kitchen remodel of this scale would cost $300k-$450k
How long did the exterior remodel take?
A exterior remodel of this size typically would take 9-12 weeks.
What made this project win NARI CotY awards?
Traver Construction earned the NARI Contractor of the Year award through exceptional craftsmanship and creative problem-solving — tackling complex structural challenges, precision stonework, and custom detailing to fit the clients needs.
