September Journal: An Ode to Historical Homes

Welcome to our September Journal! This month, we want to talk about historical homes and how to preserve them. As you already know, we have such a love and admiration for historical homes. Their doors open and transport you to another time. A time when homes didn't all look the same and their quirks, imperfections, and unique details were celebrated. A time when homes were full of character, charm, and a life well lived.

We are currently working on our second historical remodel and thought we would provide some tips for renovating a historic interior to preserve its integrity and honor its origin.

Keep Original Millwork

This is our number one piece of advice. Often the millwork details speak the most to the era of the home. Pay attention to the molding, stairs, fireplace, beams, cabinetry, and door styles. Always work to keep what is existing if possible, and if necessary to replace due to wear and age, aim to match or pay homage to what was original to the home. We know how expensive custom millwork can be, but if you can't afford to replicate or incorporate details original to the home into your new design, maybe a historical home isn't the right fit at this time.

Focus On Materials

Focus on timeless, honest, and traditional materials. The concept of "honest materials" is the idea that a material should be used for both its aesthetic and functional purpose and that its characteristics should influence the form it is used for. Stick to what would have been traditional to the home. For example, a quartz countertop would never be original to a Colonial home. However, natural materials such as marble, soapstone, or granite may have been. When looking at a well-renovated historical home, it should be hard to point out what is new versus what is old. A job well done, blends the original with the new seamlessly, as if it has always been this way.

Study Your Home

Study your home's style and learn what colors, patterns, lighting, and furnishings were popular during that era. If possible to reuse any of the original lighting, do it! Most eras have prominent patterns that reflect the style of that day in age. The Victorian era incorporated feminine florals, stripes, and whimsical patterns. This would differ from the Craftsman era which introduced more geometric, heavy patterns and repetitive motifs. When introducing new decor into your historical home, paying homage to its era will help create consistency and maintain intention.