Find Original Floor Plans My House

Finding Original Floor Plans for Your House: A Comprehensive Guide

Unearthing the original floor plans for your house can be a captivating journey into the history and architectural heritage of your property. Whether you're planning renovations, seeking inspiration for interior design, or simply curious about the evolution of your home, these plans hold a treasure trove of information. ### Step 1: Research Your Property Begin your quest by delving into the history of your property. Gather any existing documents, such as deeds, building permits, or property surveys, that may contain clues about the original floor plans. These documents often include references to the original architect or builder, the date of construction, and other valuable details. ### Step 2: Visit the Local Archives or Historical Society Local archives and historical societies are veritable treasure troves of information about local history and architecture. They may house a collection of old maps, blueprints, and photographs that could shed light on the original floor plans of your house. Be prepared to spend some time sifting through records and asking questions to knowledgeable staff. ### Step 3: Contact the Original Architect or Builder If you can identify the original architect or builder who worked on your house, reaching out to them can be a direct route to obtaining the original floor plans. They may still have copies of the plans in their archives or may be able to provide you with leads on where to find them. ### Step 4: Explore Online Resources The internet has become a valuable resource for uncovering historical information about properties. Websites like the Library of Congress, Ancestry.com, and local government websites often have digitized records, including old maps, blueprints, and property records. These resources can be especially helpful if you're researching a property in a different location. ### Step 5: Talk to Your Neighbors Engaging with your neighbors can sometimes yield surprising results. They may have lived in the area for a long time and possess knowledge about the history of your property. In some cases, neighbors may even have copies of old floor plans or photographs that can help piece together the puzzle. ### Step 6: Consult a Local Architect or Contractor Local architects and contractors who specialize in historic preservation may have access to resources or databases that can help you locate original floor plans. They may also be able to provide valuable insights into the architectural style and construction techniques used in your home. ### Step 7: Consider Hiring a Professional If your search for original floor plans proves to be challenging, consider hiring a professional genealogist or architectural historian. These experts have the skills and resources to conduct in-depth research and may be able to uncover information that you might have missed. ### Conclusion Finding the original floor plans for your house can be a rewarding and enlightening experience. By following these steps and tapping into various resources, you'll embark on a historical journey that unveils the story behind your home's design and construction. Whether you choose to use the plans for renovation, inspiration, or simply to satisfy your curiosity, they offer a unique window into the past that enriches your understanding of your property.