If you have the plan to decorate an older home, you may already know that it can be quite challenging. Unlike modern or newly constructed homes, older houses often have unique features, such as original molding, wooden floors, and historic details that you want to keep and showcase. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t add a modern touch or personalize the space according to your taste.
In this article, we will look at 8 different ideas to infuse your interiors with character and charm while still respecting the authenticity and traditional charm of your older home. Whether you are considering a complete renovation or just looking to refresh your living rooms, kitchen, or gardens, these tips and ideas will help you create a space that reflects the personality and history of your home.
One of the key elements in older homes is the use of color. Many older homes have vibrant colors on the walls, so don’t be afraid to choose bold or rich shades for your rooms. Lighting is also crucial, as it can help highlight the historic features and create an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Consider using layered lighting and antique fixtures that blend seamlessly with the period of your home.
When it comes to furniture, choose pieces that have character and can complement the historic charm of your home. Look for vintage or antique items that have a story to tell. You can also mix and match different styles to create a more eclectic look.
For the window treatments, opt for authentic drapery or blinds that were commonly used in the past. This will enhance the overall aesthetic of the room and maintain the historic feel. In terms of flooring, wooden floors are a timeless choice, but if your existing floors need some TLC, consider refinishing or restoring them to their former glory. If you prefer a more modern touch, there are many options available that mimic the look of older flooring materials.
Finally, keep in mind the importance of details. Old houses often have intricate molding, trim, and casing around windows and doors. Take the time to restore or reproduce these details to maintain the authenticity of your home. Pay attention to the smaller details such as doorknobs, hinges, and even light switch plates, as these can add a touch of charm and personality to your space.
By following these tips and ideas, you can create a space that combines the best of both worlds – the charm and character of an older home with the comfort and design elements of modern living. Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting out, this advice will help you make the most of your older home’s unique features and create a space that you will love for years to come. Keep an eye on your inbox for more inspiring articles and the latest trends in home design.
Old house decorating ideas
When it comes to decorating an old house, it’s all about the details. From the furniture you choose to the color scheme you use, every choice you make will contribute to the overall charm and character of your space. Whether you’re considering a full renovation or just want to add some vintage flair to your rooms, here are 8 ideas to help infuse your interiors with the charm of the past:
1. Embrace the architectural features
- Take a close look at the architectural details that already exist in your old house. From ornate crown moldings and beautiful window casings to hardwood floors and built-in bookcases, these features are what make your house unique. Emphasize them to maintain the authentic charm while decorating.
2. Choose traditional furnishings
- When it comes to furniture, opt for pieces that reflect the period your house was built in. Look for antique or vintage furniture that will match the style of your home. Beautiful wooden pieces with rich patina can add a sense of history and elegance to your living space.
3. Play with color schemes
- Consider using color schemes that were popular during the era your house was constructed. Whether it’s soft pastels for a Victorian home or bold and vibrant hues for a mid-century modern house, choose colors that will enhance the authenticity of your space.
4. Keep the flow
- Older houses often have more divided spaces, with separate rooms for different purposes. Consider opening up the floor plan to create a more modern and spacious feel, while still maintaining the charm of the past.
5. Use vintage drapery treatments
- Drapery treatments can add a touch of elegance to any room. Look for vintage-inspired fabrics and styles that will complement the character of your old house. Window treatments such as Roman shades or layered curtains can create an intimate and cozy feel.
6. Incorporate authentic period fixtures
- When it comes to lighting fixtures and hardware, opt for authentic period pieces. These details can make a significant difference and add a touch of authenticity to your space. Look for vintage chandeliers, sconces, and doorknobs that match the era of your house.
7. Explore the outdoors
- If your old house has gardens or outdoor spaces, make sure to incorporate them into your decorating plans. Create outdoor seating areas, add garden sculptures, and choose plants and flowers that fit the period your house was built in.
8. Pay attention to flooring
- The type of flooring you choose can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your old house. Traditional materials like hardwood floors or natural stone can help maintain the authenticity of the space. Consider restoring or refinishing existing floors to bring them back to their former glory.
By considering these decorating ideas, you can transform your old house into a space filled with charm and character. Whether you want an authentic period look or a more modern interpretation of the past, there are many ways to infuse your interiors with the beauty of an older home.
1 Choose bold paint colors
When it comes to decorating an old house, one way to infuse it with character and charm is by choosing bold paint colors. This can help transform the space and give it a more intimate and unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to embrace the historic personality of the house or want to create a more modern look, bold paint colors can make a big impact.
Older homes have a lot of architectural details, such as crown moulding, casing around windows, and wood floors. These details can be highlighted with the right choice of paint color. By selecting a bold shade, you can draw attention to these features and make them stand out.
When choosing a paint color, consider the period in which the house was built. You can find resources online or consult a designer or historic preservationist for advice. They can help you determine what colors were popular during that time and how they can work with the current condition of the house.
If you’re considering a more modern look, you can still use bold colors to add personality to the space. For example, a vibrant color on an accent wall can create a focal point in the room. You can also experiment with different colors on the ceiling or trim to add interest and dimension.
Another way to use bold paint colors is through flooring treatments. You can choose a vibrant color for a rug or carpet, or even paint the floor itself. This can add an unexpected element to the design and give the room a unique touch.
When it comes to lighting and window treatments, bold paint colors can also play a role. The right shade can enhance the natural light coming through the windows and create an inviting and cozy atmosphere. It can also add a touch of drama and elegance to the room.
In conclusion, choosing bold paint colors is a great way to infuse character and charm into an old house. Whether you want to embrace the historic details or create a more modern look, bold colors can make a big impact. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect shade that reflects your personal style!
2 Lay lighter wood floors
When it comes to giving your old house a fresh new look, one of the most impactful changes you can make is to lay lighter wood floors. This design choice not only adds brightness to your space but also gives it a sense of modernity and openness.
Lighter wood flooring has become very popular in recent years, as it can help create a sense of flow and continuity throughout your home. Whether you have an open-plan living space or a cozy kitchen, lighter wood floors can make your rooms feel larger and more connected.
Many old houses call for lighter wood flooring to stay true to the period and conditions in which they were constructed. In the past, darker wood floors were often used in older homes, but over the years, these have been painted or covered up. If you want to keep the authenticity of your old house, laying lighter wood floors is a great choice.
When choosing the shade of your lighter wood floors, consider the other elements of your space, such as windows, furniture, and wall treatments. Keep in mind that lighter wood floors can show more wear and tear, so make sure to choose a high-quality flooring that can withstand the passing years.
Lighting is also an important factor to consider when laying lighter wood floors. Older homes often have smaller and intimate rooms, so adding modern lighting fixtures can help to brighten up the space and showcase the charm and character of the lighter wood floors.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to decorate your old house with lighter wood floors, the possibilities are endless. You can choose to go for a more minimalist and contemporary look or opt for a traditional style that embraces the historic details of your home.
In conclusion, laying lighter wood floors in your old house is a fantastic way to infuse your interiors with character and charm. The flow and brightness they bring to your home can make a world of difference. So whether you’re submitting plans for a historic renovation or just considering a new look, don’t overlook the impact that lighter wood floors can have.
3 Reinstate moulding
Adding moulding to your old house is a surefire way to bring character and charm back to your interiors. Mouldings can be traditional or modern, depending on the style of your home. Whether your house is historic or just old, reinstating moulding can enhance its architectural beauty.
If you are looking to recreate the past, consider using traditional moulding profiles that were popular during the time period when your house was constructed. This will help maintain the authenticity of the space and create a seamless flow from one room to another.
In addition to using moulding on walls and ceilings, you can also incorporate it around windows and doors. This will not only add visual interest, but also provide a framing effect that enhances the overall design of your space.
When choosing moulding, consider the color and design of your walls, floors, and furniture. You may want to match the moulding to the paint color or furniture finish, or you can choose a contrasting color to make it stand out. The possibilities are endless when it comes to moulding, so be creative and find what works best for your home.
In terms of installation, there are many different moulding treatments to choose from. You can opt for simple, clean lines or more ornate designs, depending on your personal style and the architecture of your home. Moulding can be installed using nails, adhesive, or a combination of both. If you are unsure of how to install moulding, it is best to consult a professional.
One thing to keep in mind when reinstating moulding is the lighting conditions in your home. If your old house has low ceilings or small windows, adding moulding may make the room feel more cramped. In this case, consider using lighter colors and avoiding heavy moulding profiles.
In conclusion, reinstating moulding is a great way to infuse your old house with character and charm. Whether you are looking to recreate a traditional past or add a modern twist, moulding can enhance the overall design of your space. So, if you are considering decorating your old house, don’t overlook the power of moulding!
4 Create smaller room sizes and not open room plans
When it comes to decorating an old house, it’s important to consider the original character and charm of the space. One way to enhance this is by creating smaller room sizes rather than open room plans.
Smaller rooms can add a sense of intimacy and coziness to your living space. They also allow you to showcase and highlight specific furniture pieces and architectural details from the past.
If you’re unsure of how to create smaller room sizes, here are some ideas:
- Use furniture placement to divide larger rooms into smaller, more defined areas. For example, consider placing a tall bookcase or a low cabinet to create a visual barrier between a living area and a dining area.
- Consider installing pocket doors or adding interior walls to create separate rooms.
- Keep the original architectural details intact. If your old house has beautiful wood molding or window casings, showcase them by choosing a paint color that complements the wood and enhances its beauty.
- Add layers of drapery to create depth and texture. This not only adds visual interest but also helps to control light and temperature in the space.
- Play with lighting to create different moods in each room. Use a mix of fixtures, such as chandeliers, sconces, and lamps, to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
By creating smaller room sizes, you can bring back the charm and authenticity of the past while still enjoying the comforts of modern living. So, whether you’re renovating an old house or building a new one, don’t be afraid to embrace smaller room sizes and say goodbye to open room plans.
5 Consider the style of cabinet and door hardware
When it comes to decorating an old house, paying attention to the details is essential. One area that often gets overlooked, but can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space, is the style of cabinet and door hardware. Whether you’re remodeling or just updating your current old house, considering the style of hardware can add character and charm to your home.
The first thing to consider is the overall style of your house. If you have a historic home, you may want to stick with traditional hardware that complements the design and period of the house. On the other hand, if you have a more modern or contemporary house, you can choose hardware that has a sleek and minimalist design.
Another factor to consider is the type of wood or finishes you have in your house. For example, if you have dark wood floors or furniture, you may want to choose a darker or more rustic style of hardware. If you have lighter wood or painted floors, you can choose a lighter or more polished style.
When it comes to door hardware, you’ll want to consider the style of the doors themselves. If you have older, more detailed doors, you may want to choose hardware that has more intricate details. If you have more simple or modern doors, you can opt for hardware with cleaner lines.
In addition to the style of the hardware, you’ll also want to consider the color. The color of the hardware should complement the rest of the room and not clash with other elements. If you have a lot of warm earth tones in your room, you may want to choose hardware with a bronze or brass finish. If you have cooler colors, like blues or grays, you can choose hardware with a chrome or nickel finish.
Finally, think about the functionality of the hardware. Consider how easy it will be to use and whether it matches the overall design of your kitchen or bathroom. You may also want to consider the maintenance requirements of the hardware, as some styles may require more upkeep than others.
In conclusion, when decorating an old house, don’t forget to consider the style of cabinet and door hardware. It can add personality and charm to your space. Whether you choose traditional or modern hardware, make sure it complements the overall design and adds to the character of your home.
6 The use of window treatments
When it comes to decorating an old house, window treatments can play a crucial role in infusing character and charm into your interiors. The right window treatments can enhance the architectural features of your home and provide privacy while adding a touch of style and warmth.
Ideas for window treatments
There are a few different ideas you can consider when it comes to window treatments in your old house. The first thing to keep in mind is the overall color scheme and design of your interiors. If you have a traditional style with lots of wood and period details, you may want to stick with traditional window treatments like drapery or shutters.
On the other hand, if you have a more modern and eclectic style, you can play around with different options like blinds, shades, or curtains in bold colors and patterns.
“The key is to find window treatments that match the overall look and feel of your home,” says Sarah Casing, an interior designer. “Whether you want to go for a more traditional or contemporary look, make sure the window treatments add personality and charm to your space.”
Tips for using window treatments
- Consider the historic nature of your home: If you’re lucky enough to live in a historic home, consider window treatments that are appropriate for the time period in which your house was constructed. Authentic window treatments can add a touch of charm and authenticity.
- Think about the design flow: When planning your window treatments, think about how they will flow with the rest of the room. The right window treatments can create an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
- Layering is key: Use multiple layers of window treatments to create depth and interest. For example, you can combine sheer curtains with roman shades or use valances over blinds.
- Consider the practicality: Depending on the specific needs of the room, you may need window treatments that provide privacy, shade, or protection from the sun. Consider these factors when choosing your window treatments.
- Keep it simple: Sometimes, less is more, especially in older homes with beautiful architectural details. Consider using simple window treatments like blinds or shades that allow the focus to be on the details of the window casing.
- Follow the latest trends: If you’re looking for a more modern look, there are plenty of contemporary window treatments to choose from. From sleek blinds to minimalist curtains, you can find options that will complement your older home while still looking fresh and updated.
By considering these tips and ideas, you can choose the perfect window treatments for your old house that will add charm, character, and style to your living spaces.
7 Add an antique or a vintage piece of furniture
When it comes to adding character and charm to your old house, one of the best ideas is to incorporate antique or vintage furniture into your interiors. These pieces not only bring a sense of history and nostalgia, but they also add a unique touch to your space.
There are many ways you can use antique or vintage furniture in your home. One option is to paint the furniture to match your existing color scheme. A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into an old piece and give it a modern twist. You can opt for bold and vibrant colors to create a statement piece, or choose softer shades for a more subtle look.
Another idea is to keep the furniture in its original condition. This allows the piece to show its age and retain the charm and character it has developed over the years. For example, if you have a beautiful antique wooden dining table, you can showcase its natural wood grain and patina by simply polishing it.
When considering antique or vintage furniture, it is important to keep the period of your house in mind. Choose pieces that complement the style and era of your home, whether it is Victorian, Art Deco, or Mid-Century Modern. This will ensure that the furniture seamlessly integrates with the overall design and adds to the historic charm of your space.
One of the best places to find antique or vintage furniture is at flea markets, antique stores, or online marketplaces. These places often have a wide variety of furniture pieces that range from fine antiques to unique vintage finds. Take your time to browse through different options and look for pieces that catch your eye.
Add an antique or vintage piece of furniture to your rooms can instantly transform the look and feel of your space. Whether it’s an elegant Victorian armchair, a charming farmhouse table, or a retro mid-century dresser, each piece tells its own story and adds a layer of authenticity to your home.
8 Choose antique or vintage lighting over new
If you’re looking to infuse your old house with charm and character, one piece of advice is to choose antique or vintage lighting over new. Lighting fixtures from previous eras can instantly add a sense of history and personality to your space, and they often have a unique design and craftsmanship that you won’t find in newer options.
When selecting antique or vintage lighting for your old house, it’s important to consider the style and era of your home. Look for fixtures that were constructed during the same time period as your house to ensure an authentic look and feel. Whether you have a historic Victorian home or a mid-century modern gem, there are antique lighting options that will complement the overall design.
One option to consider is a vintage chandelier, which can create a stunning focal point in your entryway or dining room. These grand fixtures often feature intricate details, like crystal embellishments or ornate metalwork, that add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. A vintage pendant light or a set of wall sconces can also bring a sense of charm and intimacy to your living areas.
Another advantage of choosing antique or vintage lighting is the opportunity to incorporate different types of materials and finishes into your space. For example, you might find a fixture with a well-aged brass or bronze finish that perfectly complements the warm tones in your furniture or flooring. Or, you might come across a vintage light with a colorful shade that adds a pop of color to an otherwise neutral room.
Keep in mind that antique and vintage lighting may require some restoration or rewiring to ensure safe and proper functioning. If you’re not sure how to tackle this, consult with a professional electrician or a specialty lighting store to get expert advice and guidance.
In conclusion, when it comes to infusing your old house with character and charm, antique or vintage lighting can be a wonderful choice. The unique design, historical significance, and authentic feel of these fixtures can bring a sense of warmth and personality to your living spaces. So, consider adding a touch of vintage lighting to your home and enjoy the beauty it brings!
How do you make an old house look nice
When it comes to decorating an old house, there are many ways to make it look nice and infuse it with character and charm. Whether your goal is to create a more modern look or to maintain the authentic details of the past, here are some ideas and advice to consider.
1. Keep the historic charm
If you’re lucky enough to have an older home with original architectural details, make sure to preserve and showcase them. This could include wood floors, crown molding, intricate casing, and beautiful period fixtures. These details add personality and give your home that nostalgic and intimate feel.
2. Embrace traditional design
When it comes to furniture and decor, opting for traditional and classic pieces often enhances the charm of an old house. Look for antique furniture or vintage-inspired pieces that complement the style of your home.
3. Choose the right paint colors
The color palette you choose can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your old house. Consider using shades that were popular during the time the house was constructed, or go for neutral tones that allow the architectural details to take center stage.
4. Focus on lighting
Lighting is another essential element when it comes to making an old house look nice. Consider adding fixtures that mimic the style of the past, such as elegant chandeliers or vintage-inspired table lamps. Consider installing dimmer switches to create a soft, warm ambiance.
5. Play with drapery and window treatments
Window treatments can greatly enhance the charm of an old house. Consider using luxurious fabrics, such as velvet or silk, in classic patterns and colors. Layer curtains with sheers or blinds to add depth and texture to the windows and create a feeling of coziness.
6. Create an open flow between rooms
If the layout allows, consider knocking down walls or creating archways to create a more open flow between rooms. This can make an old house feel more inviting and spacious, while still maintaining its historic charm.
7. Mix old and modern elements
Combining old and modern elements can create a unique and interesting look. Consider mixing vintage furniture with more contemporary pieces to create a perfect balance of old and new.
8. Pay attention to the kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and updating it can significantly improve the overall look and feel of an old house. Consider keeping the original cabinets and updating them with fresh paint or new hardware. You can also add modern appliances and fixtures while still maintaining the charm of the past.
By submitting to these decorating ideas, you can transform your old house into a beautiful and welcoming space that combines the best of the past and the present.