Paint Preserves Historic Linden Hill’s Cottage

Linden Hills Mpls: Cottage City Historic Home Exterior Painting

Linden Hills Minneapolis: Cottage City Historic Home Exterior Painting

Investing in home upkeep in Cottage City, Minneapolis, can be a highly rewarding endeavor due to following factors.

If you are a homeowner who is fortunate enough to own one of these prized historic cottages, you’ll want to invest in home upkeep. Painting a Minneapolis home’s exterior is one of the primary means that protects its value.

1. Lakeside Proximity and Desirability

Cottage City is nestled in the Linden Hills neighborhood, strategically located between two of Minneapolis’s most popular lakes, Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun) and Lake Harriet.

This area’s residents love its bustling hub for various activities:

  • Access to the Minneapolis parkways.
  • Biking paths.
  • Friendly neighborhood for dog walking.
  • Beach-going opportunities.
  • Good shops and cafes nearby.

This highly desirable lakeside setting inherently boosts property values, making any investment in home upkeep more likely to see a return. Painting your home is a solid and cost-effective investment.

2. Historical Significance and Character

Home Upkeep in Cottage City is a Sound Investment - Porch is repainted

The area has an interesting history, initially developed in 1883 as “Cottage City” by a real estate firm. At that time, its humble lake cottages on small lots attracted middle-class residents of the city to the “countryside” near the lakes.

Very few original cottages still stand today, two most notably, are the Loren L. Chadwick Cottages. They were built in 1902 and are designated as a local landmark by the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

William Nunn Painting had the pleasure of painting the exterior of these historic structures, now linked to create one residence. The current owners have taken great care to use traditional methods and materials to improve the roofing, exterior and rear family room addition.

Cedar shingles and copper were chosen along with clapboard siding. These choices help the home stay in time with the old wooden cottages.

It is always exciting to look on an older house, especially one that has survived the pressures of building new and ever larger homes.” – William Nunn

3. Proven Property Value Appreciation


A repainted porch in Cottage City, as with other exterior painting projects, is a sound investment because it enhances curb appeal

In an area with a proven history of soaring property values, exterior painting isn’t just maintenance; it’s a strategic investment. A professionally painted home by William Nunn Painting significantly enhances curb appeal. We can help you decide when a high gloss paint is the best application or a better suited alternative is your best option.

Painting your Minneapolis home’s exterior is part of ensuring your property not only keeps pace but potentially outperforms the market.

4. Unique Identity in a Transforming Neighborhood

While many original cottages were torn down over decades in favor of larger homes, and the neighborhood’s identity blurred with Linden Hills, the remaining modest cottages mixed with larger, newer, and older homes create a fascinating blend.

In a neighborhood where ‘tear-downs’ are common, a meticulously maintained and historically sympathetic exterior truly makes your cottage stand out. We help restore the original architecture and charm, offering a unique, preserved alternative that appeals to those who value authentic historical integrity.

A focus on restoring the original architecture and charm of these properties can appeal to homeowners that value historical integrity over new builds.

5. Long-Term Appeal to Homeowners Who Value Historic Appeal

Despite its humble beginnings, a home in Cottage City has become a magnet for residents in the Twin Cities seeking lakefront living close to downtown.

By investing in quality upkeep, renovations, and painting, homeowners can ensure their properties meet the high standards expected in such a sought-after area.

Why is Home Upkeep in Cottage City a Sound Investment?

Exterior historic Linden Hill, MN home painting project - old windows restored
  1. Allows homeowners to leverage the area’s prime location.
  2. Allows homeowners to enjoy rich historical character.
  3. A well-maintained home in Cottage City has proven property value appreciation.
  4. If someday you choose to sell, fresh paint lets you enjoy unique home seller’s market positioning. This is especially true within the highly desirable Linden Hills, Minneapolis neighborhood.
  5. Preserving the charm of these homes through expert renovation and painting can lead to significant personal enjoyment, and an increase in value overtime.

Why Choose William Nunn Painting for Your Historic Cottage?

  • Expertise in Historic Home Preservation: With over 50 years of experience in Minneapolis and St. Paul, we possess specialized knowledge in handling the unique challenges and requirements of historic homes. We understand period-appropriate colors, materials, and techniques that protect and enhance your cottage’s original charm.
  • Craftsmanship & Durability: We don’t just paint; we restore. Our meticulous preparation and application processes ensure a durable, long-lasting finish that can withstand Minnesota’s harsh weather, protecting your home’s envelope for years to come.
  • Respect for Your Home’s Legacy: We treat every home, old and new, with the respect it deserves. This involves thoughtful work to preserve architectural details and maintain the unique character of Cottage City. Our goal is to enhance its story, not just cover it up.
  • Seamless Project Management: We understand that home projects can be disruptive. Our team prioritizes clear communication, efficient scheduling, and a tidy worksite, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience from consultation to completion.

William Nunn Painting works with a variety of paint colors, often using Fine Paints of Europe, and provides custom color consultations to clients. We use period-appropriate paint colors, techniques, and materials that honor your home’s past while securing its future.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Real Estate Investment and Enhance its Charm

As Minneapolis’s trusted historic painting experts for over five decades, William Nunn Painting is dedicated to enhancing the timeless charm of your property. This is especially in a historically rich and highly sought-after area like Cottage City in Minneapolis.

Your home isn’t just a dwelling; it’s a part of a vibrant and desirable community. Let us help you bring out the best.

Schedule a painting consultation for your Cottage City home.

Contact William Nunn or call 612 825-3875