5 Timeless Home Details Designers Insist on Keeping

When starting a home renovation project, make sure to think about keeping these essential features that define your space’s personality.

Regardless of whether this trend stems from the real estate market or the influence of popular home renovation television programs, an increasing number of individuals are taking up such projects. purchasing fixer uppers and taking the DIY renovation The path has never been more challenging. In dealing with historical residences, choosing which elements to retain and which to discard poses a significant difficulty. Balancing contemporary functionality within these spaces without losing their original allure requires careful consideration. We sought guidance from seasoned professionals who could elucidate their approach towards updating such properties or expanding upon them. They shared insights into maintaining both practicality and period authenticity during renovations and extensions.

"When tackling historic homes, our aim is to preserve as many original materials and details as feasible because these components frequently define the architectural character," explains Paul Clayton, who leads the firm. Clayton Korte . Whether it's a stunning fireplace showcasing premium materials and an elegant design, along with detailed woodworking that adds character to the area, or complex carpentry work that brings charm to the room, old-world charm There's no replacement for these authentic home features."

If you're starting a do-it-yourself project home renovation , here are the initial home design elements experts recommend you always maintain.

Related: 19 Cost-Effective Home Improvement Tips for Each Room

1. Fireplace and Mantel

If you want to maintain the initial characteristics throughout a renovation, we recommend avoiding alterations. fireplaces and mantels ," says interior designer Audrey Scheck A fireplace typically occupies a central position in a room and acts as a centerpiece. In older houses, these fireplaces are frequently crafted from premium materials, exhibiting remarkable workmanship with elaborate designs and beautiful contours that would be extremely costly to recreate nowadays. Retaining such authentic elements helps maintain the house’s distinct charm and narrative, contributing to an overall sophisticated ambiance throughout the area. If the original fireplace If it is no longer operational or unsafe to use, you can retain the surrounding area and mantle, and have an expert replace the inner parts.

Related: 21 fireplace makeovers that exude charm and style from before to after transformations

2. Millwork

Another distinctive feature of an original home that Scheck suggests retaining during renovation is millwork. Millwork pertains to wooden elements like moldings, doors, and stair railings. wall paneling , crown moulding, and ornamental window treatments door trim All of these elements are commonly found in vintage houses. According to Scheck, this architectural feature preserves the home’s original allure and personality, noting that “modern builds generally cannot recreate this.” Historically, millwork was predominantly made using premium woods like mahogany, walnut, or cherry, then finished with a deep, dark stain. Should this style seem somewhat overwhelming for your refreshed decor vision, repainting it is possible; however, careful thought must be put into this decision.

Related: Stunning Wall Paneling Designs for All Rooms

3. Staircase

An original staircase , regardless of whether they are situated in an elegant entrance hall or connect the kitchen to the upper-level bedrooms, which you might come across in an older home, should be preserved. These elements frequently feature intricate designs and masterfully executed craftsmanship. railings and banister These elements add to the home’s historical character. As Scheck mentions, “Those enduring features narrate your house’s history and it's crucial to preserve them wherever possible.”

Related: 10 Kinds of Stairs to Be Aware of When Redesigning Your Space

4. Hardwood Floors

If your residence features authentic hardwood floors Those that are in good condition or can be restored with a moderate—or extensive—amount of effort, Scheck suggests retaining. She advises, "Embrace distinctive features such as squeaky hardwood floors and ornate moldings." Renovating a fixer-upper usually involves a considerable number of unexpected challenges en route, both positive and negative; however, uncovering original elements makes it worthwhile. hardwood floors under a covering of dirty old carpet is always an exciting discovery. In cases where the home has original hardwood floors but they are too damaged to save, Clayton shares a way to maintain the historic visual essence while replacing the floors. "If we do need to replace original materials and details, we will replace them in kind to maintain the texture and feel of the residence," he says.

Related: 10 Clever Tips to Highlight the Charm of Wooden Flooring

5. Interior Brick

Keeping or uncovering original exposed brick walls brings warmth and historical allure into a space, complemented by rough materials that add tactile details. Regarding painting over original exposed bricks, Scheck emphasizes finding equilibrium. She states, “Although it’s not strictly forbidden, proceed cautiously throughout the design phase.” Should the bricks seem overwhelming and clash with your desired aesthetic, applying new paint offers a quick and budget-friendly revamp. However, she cautions, “Those rugged, unfinished surfaces narrate tales money cannot replicate.” Before grabbing the brush, ensure you aren’t obscuring elements of the house’s past that may be irreversible.

Related: Is It Wise to Paint the Exterior Bricks of Your Home?

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