1929 Tudor Historic Renovation Revives an Era with Custom Vent Covers
Nestled in the quiet hills of Chevy Chase Canyon, this 1929 English Tudor Revival was once a tranquil escape for a prominent Los Angeles family. Over the decades, the home saw layers of additions that obscured its original charm. When the current owners took over in 2019, their mission was clear: restore the home’s authentic architectural voice—down to the smallest details.
With over 6,000 square feet of space and a designation as a historic structure, the renovation came with complex challenges—and opportunities for transformative storytelling through design.
The renovation was featured on Brett Waterman’s Magnolia Network TV show, Restored. It was exactly the sort of historic renovation challenge Waterman and team love to take on.
Craftsmanship That Connects Eras
One of the most powerful tools in this restoration was not a beam or a brick, but a photograph of a single, original metal register cover. That photo became the blueprint for a remarkable custom vent cover collaboration with Reggio Register. Using the image, our team faithfully recreated the 1929 pattern with precision—down to the curvature and negative space.
This process is where past and present converge. While the original grilles were crafted by hand nearly a century ago, Reggio Register merged traditional artistry with modern techniques—creating new, functional pieces that feel completely at home in their historic setting.
“The original vent covers had some beautiful work, and Reggio matched it perfectly,” said the designer on the project.
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The Power of Details in Historic Restoration
This project encompassed the entry hall, living and breakfast rooms, kitchen, laundry, and powder room. Each space required vent solutions that would look like they had always been there.
The ability to scale up the original design for new return vents—without compromising authenticity—showcased just how impactful small elements can be when treated with care.
“Reggio was able to use the original design to accommodate larger return air vents that were never there in 1929,” the designer told us.
The use of finishes like brushed silver, pewter, brass, and matte black was also intentional—each chosen to complement room-specific fixtures and elevate the feeling of design continuity throughout the home.
Learn more about balancing modern technology and vintage details.
Ongoing Restoration, Consistent Craftsmanship
The project is still unfolding, with work continuing upstairs and in the 1949 Game Room addition. But one thing is certain: Reggio Register will continue to play a critical role in maintaining design cohesion across eras.
“We are carrying the Reggio Registers throughout the home, and replacing some basic aluminum vents that were installed with the addition,” the designer said.
From the initial photo of a single grille to a whole-home transformation, this project exemplifies how the smallest details—when crafted with care—can echo the soul of a historic home.
Recreate the Charm in Your Own Home
Whether you're restoring a 1920s gem or building a new home with vintage flair, Reggio Register helps bring history into the present—beautifully.
FAQs
Q: Can I recreate original vent covers from a photo?
Yes! Reggio Register offers custom design services that can replicate vintage grilles from reference images or sketches.
Q: What registers are best for Tudor-style homes?
Classically inspired designs in brass, black, or pewter finishes often complement Tudor Revival architecture. Reggio offers patterns that reflect 1920s–1930s styling.
Q: Are custom HVAC grilles worth it in a historic home?
Absolutely—off-the-shelf vents often disrupt the aesthetic. Custom grilles preserve visual continuity and meet modern airflow needs.
Q: What are the benefits of using custom registers in a historic renovation?
Custom registers allow you to maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern HVAC needs. They ensure visual continuity, often using original patterns, colors, or finishes to blend seamlessly into period-accurate interiors.
Q: How does Reggio Register replicate historic vent cover designs?
We can recreate register covers from photos, sketches, or surviving originals. Our design team uses a mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern laser-cutting technology to faithfully reproduce historic details.
Q: Are Reggio Register products suitable for homes with historic designations?
Yes. Our registers are often selected for use in homes with historic or landmark status because they preserve period authenticity while meeting today’s functional standards.
Q: What types of homes or styles are best suited to Reggio Register designs?
Our registers are ideal for historic homes like Tudor Revival, Craftsman, Colonial, and Victorian styles, but we also offer contemporary patterns for modern spaces.
Q: How do I start a custom register project with Reggio?
Simply visit our Custom Orders page to submit your specifications or inspiration image. Our team will walk you through sizing, finishes, lead times, and more.
