Birmingham’s historic flats are being renovated – from the 1920s to Dingbat style

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From luxury apartment complexes to rent-increasing condos, there are always new places popping up in Birmingham.

But what if you want to live somewhere with some history?

We spoke to H2 Real Estate Director Carter Hughes and Regional Manager Danielle Bush about their recent downtown renovations and focus on combining historic charm with modern comforts.

The objective of H2 Real Estate

If you live in downtown Birmingham, you’ve probably seen H2 Real Estate signs everywhere.

Although they may rent apartments, their main purpose is to renovate and preserve local historic properties.

“Our locations primarily consist of assets that were built in the early to mid-20th century.

Our goal is to maintain the character of these beautiful structures that add so much to the aesthetics of our community, while adapting them for modern amenities and lifestyles.”

Carter Hughes, Director, H2 Imóveis

His most recent projects include Montrose and The Riviera.

The Montrose

If you frequent places like Rojo and O’Henry’s Coffee in Highland Park, you’re probably familiar with Montrose. Tip: It is located right behind these two local hotspots on 29th Street South.

Built in 1926 as the Iroquois and Waucoma Apartments, it included three buildings connected by courtyards.

H2 acquired the building in 2022 and is currently rehabilitating the multimillion-dollar structure.

I was able to take a tour of the construction going on in Montrose.

Although there is still a lot of work to be done, it was easy to see the building’s charm and potential.

One especially unique thing is that it has a parking structure beneath it. This was a key decision in explaining why H2 wanted to bring the Montrose back to life.

“Underground parking in Highland Park is very rare, especially for a building this age.

It’s such a unique feature that you don’t really see it in most areas of older properties.”

Danielle Bush, Regional Manager, H2 Real Estate

Before + after

The wallpaper shows the history of the Montrose flats in Birmingham. (Jacob Blankenship/Bham Now)

Over its nearly 100 years, Montrose has seen layers upon layers of wallpaper.

One of the units I visited displayed the decades with a floral print overlapping stripes that overlapped another pattern.

Danielle told me that one of the units showed a beautiful western scene.

“I love it when I’m renovating a historic apartment and I come across all the layers of wallpaper. It’s like a little glimpse into the past.

Each layer tells its own story and you can see how design trends have changed over the years.”

Danielle Bush, Regional Manager, H2 Real Estate

More fun renovation finds at Montrose include wall cabinets and folding ironing boards. (Jacob Blankenship/Bham Now)

H2 told me that before renovations began at the Montrose, some of the apartments hadn’t been updated in decades.

In addition to structural updates and modernized decor, most of the building’s historic elements will be safely preserved.

While wallpaper may have to go, historic gems like steel windows and natural wood floors are here to stay.

The Riviera

Riviera is a recent H2 project that quickly gained renters upon completion.

I was able to visit the property and I must say I fell in love with it. I happen to be a fan of Dingbat-style apartments.

Dingbat is a 1950s-60s style apartment, typically a two-story building with street-front parking overhangs, exuding a youthful, modern, Californian vibe.

If Birmingham were near the ocean, it would be an ideal setting to see surfers transporting their boards to and from the shore.

“It’s like living in a work of functional art and architectural history.

The whole vibe of the building is so retro and distinctly Western California. It definitely brings a cool, nostalgic allure.”

Danielle Bush, Regional Manager, H2 Real Estate

Before + after

In 2022, H2 purchased the building and began renovations. Outdated electrical and plumbing systems were major concerns, as the property had not received significant updates in over 50 years.

“Lots of people in Birmingham have told me stories about how this was the ‘place’ to live in the 60s and 70s.

Our goal with the renovation was to bring that back to the Riviera.”

Carter Hughes, Director, H2 Imóveis

Today, the apartment shines brightly along the hillside of 33rd Street South.

It has been completely updated with everything from new wiring and plumbing to paint and appliances. The swimming pool has also been renovated.

Balconies were added to the front of the building to maximize its potential and provide tenants with stunning views of Birmingham.

Bonus: Riviera is close to English Village, Highland Park and Five Points South – all beloved places to eat, play and live.

H2 is behind many other apartments in Birmingham. If you love historic homes with a modern twist, you’ll want to see what’s available now.

For more information about H2 Real Estate and their Birmingham properties, visit their website and follow them on Facebook + Instagram.

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