Reggie and Sarah transformed their small backyard, which was previously an awkward space dominated by a concrete pad, gravel, unlevel pavers, and an obsolete catch basin. By building a floating deck over the entire area, they created a more versatile and usable outdoor space perfect for relaxation and gatherings. Timbertech Decking Materials: Crafty Beaver Supplies: Home Depot Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Carrie and Robin’s front yard was overrun with weeds and patchy grass. They layered cardboard, leaves, and soil, allowing it to decompose over winter to enrich the soil for planting. Each subsequent spring and summer, they added native plants and perennials, and built a window box for annuals, resulting in a more inviting space for people and pollinators alike. Plants: local plant sales, Gethsemane Garden Center, Possibility Place Nursery, Prairie Moon Nursery, and The Growing Place Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

To address basement flooding during major storms, Lara disconnected her downspouts and rerouted them to a swale in her backyard. She removed turf grass, added stones to manage the water flow, and planted over 15 varieties of native plants. This thriving garden not only helps prevent basement flooding but also attracts pollinators and butterflies. Downspout Materials: Home Depot Flagstone & Rocks: The Stone Center Plants: Forest Preserves of Will County Nature Foundation Plant Sale Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Heidi and Mark prioritized energy efficiency in their attic renovation. They air sealed, insulated, and incorporated an electric heat pump for heating and cooling. The result is an added three bedrooms, bathroom, and extra storage that minimizes energy consumption and maximizes space. Contractor: Chi Renovation & Design HVAC: Abt Electronics HVAC Services Group Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

The built-in shelves around Jolanta and Kurt's fireplace had been covered with mirrors in the 70s, and they aimed to restore it to its original wood finish. They carefully removed the glass, stripped the adhesive, and refinished the wood before Kurt completed the restoration by crafting matching cabinet doors. Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Della was determined to preserve her bungalow's original windows, even though they no longer opened. With the help of her daughter Nachaka, the historic windows were repaired, the wood refinished, and the art glass cleaned, bringing new life to this cherished feature of their home. Window Restoration: Mulligan Stained Glass Studio Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

The original wood storm windows of Brian and Rachel’s bungalow were in poor condition. Doing the work themselves over a few years, they fully restored 14 storm windows and repainted 8 others. They removed layers of old paint, filled in any wood rot, installed new glazing, and gave the storm windows a fresh coat of paint, ensuring they were both functional and beautiful. Paint & Glazing Supplies: Home Depot Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Above their fireplace, Danny and Sam discovered original art glass windows concealed behind faux stone. They carefully removed the stone, restored the walls, repaired the cracked glass, and even refinished the oak mantle. Matching the mantle, they framed the windows in oak, creating a stunning focal point in their living room. Art Glass Window Restoration: Fredrick Stained Glass Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Princess and Davis restored their living room by first repairing a leak that had damaged the plaster walls and crown molding. They expertly patched the plaster, uncovered original floors, and had wood trim refinished. After using limewash paint on the walls and adding a ceiling fan where they uncovered an electric box, the historic room was brought back to life. Floor Refinishing: Casas Flooring Woodwork Refinishing: Peter’s Wood Refinishing Electrical: T and D Electrical Plaster & Plastering Supplies: Limeworks.us Limewash Paint: Sydney Harbor Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Jim and Liz’s back porch was cold, drafty, and underused. They transformed it into a clever double-function room, adding a butler's pantry for kitchen overflow and a well-organized mudroom, ensuring everything has its place. Incorporating heat and insulation, they also made the space comfortable and functional year-round. Contractor: Alumni Builders, Inc. Cabinets: Cabinets.com Floor Tile: The Tile Shop Wallpaper: York Wallcoverings Hardware: House of Antique Hardware Minifridge: Abt Electronics Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Lourdes and Enrique finished their attic, adding two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a cozy living area. To maximize the layout, they rerouted the stairs through the dining room, creating an open and inviting flow, and making room for first-floor laundry. With just a small setback dormer, the renovation enhances their space while maintaining the character of their historic bungalow. Contractor: Enrique Perez Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

Jamie and Nate revamped their small bungalow kitchen on a budget by redesigning the layout with a new island, cabinets, and countertops. They replaced the wall tile with historically appropriate beadboard and added new appliances and fixtures. These thoughtful updates revitalized the space while preserving its original charm. Cabinets: IKEA Countertops: Urban Countertops Appliances: Abt Electronics Sink & Faucet: Lowe’s Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

The concrete steps of Janice’s front porch were cracked and crumbling. Determined to restore their integrity, she had the concrete repoured, ensuring a sturdy and safe entrance. The freshly poured steps not only enhance the porch’s curb appeal but also provide a welcoming entryway to her home. Concrete: Ruben Construction Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

After researching proper cleaning methods for historic masonry, Carlos and Cindy cleaned their bungalow's brick, revealing its original 1924 color. To complete the look, they also restored their original wood front door. The results brought new life to their home while honoring its past. Brick Cleaning: Juan Restoration and Construction Door Hardware: Charleston Hardware Created in 2005 by the Chicago Bungalow Association with the generous support of The Driehaus Foundation, the Driehaus Bungalow Awards are an annual juried competition highlighting the very best in Chicago bungalow rehab and restoration projects. Visit www.chicagobungalow.org/driehaus-awards for more photos and info on the winners’ projects!

In this final episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," learn how to properly mix mortar and repoint your brick exterior walls in a way that will keep them in good shape for another century! ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Mat Fugiel of Guernica Restoration and Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for their expertise!

In this sixth episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," Carla and Matt discuss the consequences of using the wrong kind of mortar, the different options on the market, and how to choose the correct mortar for your vintage masonry. (In the next and final episode, learn how to properly mix mortar and repoint your brick exterior walls in a way that will keep them in good shape for another century.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com

In this fifth episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," learn the difference between tuckpointing and repointing, how to know when it’s time to repoint your walls, and how to best remove the existing mortar without damaging your brick. (In the next episode, Carla and Matt discuss the consequences of using the wrong kind of mortar, the different options on the market, and how to choose the correct mortar for your vintage masonry.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com

In this fourth episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," Matt and Carla head inside to assess foundation cracks and other masonry issues that are typical in basements. (In the next episode, learn the difference between tuckpointing and repointing, when it’s time to repoint your walls, and how to best remove the existing mortar without damaging your brick.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com

In this third episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," learn to assess issues you may experience with your front steps, cheek walls, and lintels. (In the next episode, we head inside to assess foundation cracks and other masonry issues that are typical in basements.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com

In this second episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," Matt and Carla diagnose common moisture issues found at the base of a brick exterior wall, assess some mortar and repointing issues, and offer suggestions on how to address them. (In the next episode, learn to assess issues you may experience with your front steps, cheek walls, and lintels.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com

In this first episode of "How-To Home: Masonry," learn to diagnose chimney and gutter issues affecting your vintage masonry. (In the next episode, Matt and Carla will diagnose common moisture issues found at the base of a brick exterior wall, assess some mortar and repointing issues, and offer suggestions on how to address them.) ------------------------------------------------------------------- "How-To Home" Video Series Practical and trusted advice for owners of vintage homes, at your doorstep! Learn more about the Chicago Bungalow Association at www.chicagobungalow.org The Chicago Bungalow Association thanks Matt Wolf of Henry Frerk Sons for his expertise! Learn more about Henry Frerk Sons at hfsmaterials.com