Our NK Construction & Design team works with homeowners throughout Fishtown and nearby neighborhoods including Northern Liberties, Port Richmond (19134), and Olde Kensington (19122). Many of the houses in this area were built over 80–120 years ago, and while they have character, they often need significant updates to meet modern living standards.
Why Fishtown Homes Need Remodeling
Most homes in Fishtown were designed for a very different lifestyle. Kitchens were small and separated, electrical systems were limited, and storage was minimal. Today, homeowners want open spaces, natural light, and functional layouts.
Common problems we see in Fishtown properties:
Closed Floor Plans
Divided rooms that feel cramped and limit light.
Load-bearing Walls
Structural barriers blocking natural light flow.
kitchenOutdated Spaces
Kitchens and bathrooms with inefficient layouts.
Electrical Capacity
Insufficient systems for modern appliance needs.
Structural Aging
Uneven floors and aging structural framing.
Basement Moisture
Ongoing issues with moisture and dampness.
Our Team Helps Plan:
For projects involving structural changes, we coordinate required permits and inspections to ensure your home’s integrity is protected.
From Design Planning to Construction
Every project starts with a consultation. We meet with the homeowner, walk through the property, and discuss how the space is used daily. Instead of only replacing finishes, we focus on improving how the home functions.
Working With a Design Team
Many Fishtown homeowners want guidance selecting materials and finishes. Our team assists with planning and collaborates with design professionals when needed. We help coordinate cabinet selections, tile choices, lighting placement, and overall style so the finished home feels cohesive.
Comprehensive Renovation Services
We manage the project from demolition to final details so you work with one contractor throughout the entire process.
Open-Concept Kitchen
Many row homes have narrow kitchens separated from dining areas by structural walls. We carefully remove or modify these walls and install structural beams when necessary. This allows homeowners to create a modern open-concept kitchen and living area.
Typical upgrades include:
Homeowners often notice that after opening the layout, their home feels significantly larger even without adding square footage.
Bathroom Renovations
Older bathrooms in Fishtown properties often have plumbing wear, limited ventilation, and outdated layouts.
We frequently remodel bathrooms to include:
Because many row homes share walls, proper waterproofing and installation are especially important to prevent future issues.
Structural and Basement Improvements
Many Fishtown homes also require structural attention. Over time, joists can sag, floors become uneven, and previous repairs may no longer meet current standards.
Before finishing a basement or remodeling the first floor, we inspect and correct:
After repairs, basements can be converted into usable living areas such as offices, guest rooms, or entertainment spaces.
Complete Home Renovations
Some homeowners choose a full renovation after purchasing a property. These projects typically include:
We manage the project from demolition to final details so homeowners work with one contractor throughout the process.
Project Showcase: Modern Fishtown Transformation
A curated selection of our most recent Fishtown remodel, demonstrating the blend of historic charm and modern functionality.
Serving Fishtown & Nearby
We understand the specific construction methods used in older Philadelphia row homes and plan renovations carefully to protect the structure while modernizing the space.
Planning a Remodeling Project?
If you recently purchased a home in Fishtown or are planning improvements, our NK Construction & Design team can evaluate the property and help create a renovation plan from design through completion.
Evaluations include property assessment and design-through-completion planning.
