5 Tips for Preserving Your Home’s Character During a Renovation

Renovating a home while maintaining its original character requires a delicate balance. If you’re planning a renovation, chances are your home needs repairs or modern updates. However, especially with older homes, you don’t want to lose the unique features that make your space special.

To help you strike the right balance between updating and preserving, we spoke with interior designers who specialize in blending traditional and modern elements. Here are their top tips for refreshing your space without compromising the original charm of your home’s architecture.

Focus on Restoration, Not Replacement

“Instead of completely gutting everything, look for ways to restore what you can,” says interior designer Audrey Scheck. To maintain the character of your home while adding modern updates, she recommends restoring existing elements and choosing contemporary finishes for any new items you need. “Restore, don’t replace, and mix in modern touches with the older, charming decor,” Scheck advises.

Select a Complementary Color Palette

Choosing the right color palette is another key way to harmonize old and new elements. “Opt for soft, muted tones that allow the vintage features of your home to shine, while also allowing plenty of natural light to come through,” suggests Scheck. For example, an all-gray color scheme might not work well with the warm, traditional wood elements in your home. Be mindful of the undertones of your original features when selecting new finishes to ensure everything blends seamlessly.

Embrace New Features Thoughtfully

Sometimes, home renovations include adding an entirely new section to a historic property, which presents the challenge of blending old and new design elements. “When we design additions for historic homes, we often position them slightly away from the original structure and use modern materials to distinguish the new from the old,” says Paul Clayton, principal at Clayton Korte. This approach allows for expansion while still honoring the home’s original character.

For Clayton Korte’s Ridgecrest Residence, the renovation focused on both preserving the midcentury home’s charm and introducing contemporary elements. “When working on interiors with significant historic details, we take a similar approach,” Clayton explains. “We respect the character-defining elements while blending in modern design.”

Keep Original Features Where Possible

Both Clayton and Scheck recommend preserving five key elements of your home whenever possible: fireplaces, millwork, staircases, hardwood floors, and interior brick. “These features are the heart of your home’s history, and preserving them will only enhance the elegance of your space,” says Scheck. Of course, certain elements may need to be updated, like refinishing old floors or replacing a staircase for structural reasons, but you can choose similar styles to maintain consistency with the home’s original character.

Preserve the Soul of Your Home

No matter the size or style of your home, maintaining the right balance between change and preservation is essential. Update the elements that no longer meet modern standards or suit your lifestyle, but as Scheck advises, “Don’t strip the soul out of the home.” By following these expert tips, you can create a space that is both contemporary and full of unique character. “Keep the character—that’s where the magic is,” Scheck concludes.