Remodeling Costs for Acadian Cottages in South Louisiana

Cajun Conservation
Oct 24
2 min read

Acadian cottages are some of the most beloved homes in South Louisiana. With their steep roofs, wide porches, and raised foundations, they’re a proud reminder of Cajun-French heritage. But remodeling an Acadian cottage is not like remodeling a modern home — these historic houses often require specialized care and custom craftsmanship.

At Cajun Conservation, we’ve restored countless Acadian cottages across Acadiana. Here’s what to expect when budgeting for a remodel.

Why Acadian Cottages Cost More to Remodel

1. Historic Woodwork & Trim

Original shiplap walls, beams, and trim require careful restoration.
Replacing with modern materials lowers value and authenticity.

Pro Tip: Refinishing original wood is usually less expensive than replacing it — and preserves history.

2. Raised Foundations

Many Acadian cottages sit on piers or beams that need repair or reinforcement.
Crawlspaces often require drainage improvements to prevent rot.

3. Roofing & Porches

Steep rooflines and wide galleries (porches) require custom carpentry.
Porches are high-value features but add cost when structural repairs are needed.

Average Costs for Acadian Cottage Remodels

Cosmetic Refresh: $60,000 – $90,000Painting, refinishing wood floors, porch repairs, minor kitchen/bath updates
Mid-Range Remodel: $100,000 – $180,000New kitchens and bathrooms, partial systems replacement, restored woodwork, beadboard ceilings
Full Historic Restoration: $200,000 – $350,000+Complete systems replacement (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), foundation repairs, custom carpentry, porch and roof restoration

Pro Tip: Always include a 15–20% contingency budget. Older cottages often hide plumbing, wiring, or termite damage.

Popular Remodel Features in Acadian Cottages

Farmhouse-Style Kitchens – Farmhouse sinks, reclaimed wood cabinetry, large islands.
Restored Porches – Beadboard ceilings, wood railings, ceiling fans.
Shiplap Walls & Ceilings – Preserved or refinished for rustic charm.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades – HVAC systems, insulation, and ventilation to fight humidity.

FAQs About Acadian Cottage Remodels

Q: Can an Acadian cottage be modernized without losing charm?A: Yes — with careful design, you can add modern kitchens, bathrooms, and HVAC while keeping historic details intact.

Q: Are permits required to remodel cottages in Acadiana?A: Yes. Plumbing, electrical, and structural changes require permits. Historic districts may also require extra approvals.

Q: Are Acadian cottages good investments?A: Absolutely. Well-restored cottages retain high resale value and remain in demand across Acadiana.

Why Choose Cajun Conservation

At Cajun Conservation, we’re not just remodelers — we’re experts in Cajun-French architecture. Our team restores Acadian cottages with care, ensuring every project respects both tradition and modern needs.

Historic restoration expertise Custom carpentry for authentic finishes Knowledge of Louisiana’s climate challenges

Ready to Remodel Your Acadian Cottage?

Your home is a piece of Louisiana’s history. At Cajun Conservation, we’ll help you remodel your Acadian cottage with craftsmanship that lasts.

Schedule your free consultation today and let’s bring your cottage back to life with authenticity and comfort.