When it comes to historic renovations, the details matter. Dan Hornby, the founder of Elm Real Estate and Design, specializes in historic renovations, urban infill development, and new construction. They recently completed a significant project at 253 Broadway—a stunning three-story mansion built in 1856. Restoring historic properties like this one requires more than just vision and skill; it demands the right materials and the right partners. That’s why, for the exterior restoration of 253 Broadway, Dan chose Adler’s Design Center & Hardware.

The project at 253 Broadway was no small undertaking. This historic mansion had seen better days, and its exterior was in desperate need of a complete overhaul. Over time, the elements had taken a toll on the paint, and the house required a full priming and painting to restore it to its former glory. As with any renovation project, the quality of the materials you use is crucial. In the case of a historic home, you need to make sure the products you choose are not only durable but also suited to the unique needs of an older property. That’s where Adler’s comes in.

The Value of Expert Guidance in Historic Renovation
When he first started the renovation, Dan knew exactly what he was up against. Historic houses like this one often require extra care and attention—especially when it comes to their exteriors. After 10 to 15 years, the paint on these older properties starts to peel and deteriorate. The exterior needs to be completely stripped and restored—not just with any paint, but with products that will stand up to the elements and preserve the house’s charm for generations to come.

That's where the team at Adler’s Design Center & Hardware made all the difference. Dan had worked with them for years, and one of the things that has always stood out is their deep knowledge of the products they carry. When you’re working on a historic project like 253 Broadway, it’s not just about buying paint off the shelf. You need advice and expertise. Harry, who runs the paint department at Adler’s, has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to historic properties. He understands the intricacies of what’s required to restore and preserve a house.

Dan knew from the beginning that when it came to choosing paint for 253 Broadway, he wouldn’t trust just anyone. “There’s a huge difference between buying paint at a big-box store and working with a specialty retailer like Adler’s. At a big-box store, you’re just another customer picking up a can of paint”. But at Adler’s, you’re working with experts who are passionate about your project and invested in helping you succeed.

The Benefits of Working with a Local, Specialized Team
It’s easy to assume that buying from a big-box store is the most convenient or cost-effective option. However, working with a specialized store like Adler’s Design Center & Hardware offers significant advantages—especially when it comes to quality and service.

Adler’s doesn’t just sell paint and supplies—they become a partner in your project. They take the time to listen to your needs, understand your vision, and help guide you toward the best products for the job. This level of service is invaluable, particularly when you’re restoring a historic building, where every detail counts.

Sure, you may pay a little more for materials at a local business like Adler’s, but you’re also getting a level of service and expertise that you just can’t get at a big-box store. Dan values the support he gets from Adler’s because they understand that he’s not just painting a house; but preserving history.

Why Quality Paint Makes a Difference
One of Dan’s top priorities was ensuring that the exterior restoration was done with the best possible materials. The right paint isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about longevity and protection. A historic property like 253 Broadway needs a durable, high-quality paint that can withstand the harsh elements and preserve the house for future generations.

Harry and Cristine helped Dan select the perfect paint for the job, one that would provide both the durability I needed and the authentic look that this historic home deserves. And in this case, the color he chose didn’t exist in the C2 Paint catalog, so they decided to create a custom C2 color instead. It’s not just about slapping a coat of paint on the house—it’s about using products that are designed to last and maintain the integrity of the building over time. Adler’s understands that, and they were there every step of the way to make sure Dan and his team had the right supplies to achieve the best result.

The Difference Between Big-Box Stores and Local Experts
In today’s world, it can be tempting to turn to large, impersonal retailers for your home improvement needs. But when it comes to a project as important as restoring a historic property, the difference in quality and service can be night and day. At Adler’s, you’re not just a customer—but rather a partner. We genuinely care about the success of our customers’ projects, and our expertise goes beyond the basics of product knowledge. We offer guidance, recommendations, and solutions tailored to the unique needs of each project.

You’re not just buying a product; you’re getting the support of people who are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. It’s a partnership that’s hard to find in the world of big-box stores.

Bringing 253 Broadway Back to Life
Thanks to the quality paint and expert guidance from Adler’s Design Center & Hardware, Dan was able to restore the exterior of 253 Broadway to its former glory. The house is now ready to stand tall for generations to come, preserving its rich history while offering modern-day appeal.

When it comes to historic renovations, every detail matters. That’s why Dan chose Adler’s for this project—we understand the importance of quality materials and craftsmanship. At Elm Real Estate and Design, we’re proud to work with partners like Adler’s, and we look forward to many more successful projects together. “If you’re planning a renovation and need expert advice, quality materials, and a team that truly cares about your vision, I encourage you to visit Adler’s Design Center & Hardware. They’re the best in the business—and they’ll make sure you get it right every time”, said Dan.

Back to Pro Tips