9 Timeless Design Traditions to Revive
When it comes to home design, turning to historic design elements that have stood the test of time can provide a sense of elegance and longevity that modern trends may lack. Rather than dismissing these traditions in favor of the latest fads, it’s worth considering which historic design elements we should bring back and how they can benefit our homes in practical ways.
To explore this topic, we consulted with two experts in historic home design. Interior designer Bethany Adams specializes in working with historic homes, particularly in Louisville, Kentucky, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. She finds the challenge of blending historical design with modern living both rewarding and stimulating.
William Cullum, who studied historic preservation and art history, brings his expertise to Jayne Design Studio in New York City, where he specializes in revitalizing historic homes nationwide. His passion for antique design elements, such as stained glass transoms and Federal mantles, fuels his creativity in finding new homes for these treasures.
These timeless design traditions not only add character to old homes but also offer enduring style that transcends passing trends. Let’s explore some historical design elements that can also help you save money on your home projects.
1. Embrace High Ceilings
Consider opting for ceilings that are 10 feet or taller when building a new home, reminiscent of the grand proportions found in historic residences. Taller ceilings not only create a sense of grandeur but also help regulate indoor temperatures more efficiently. With hot air rising to the top of the room during summer, cooler air stays at a comfortable level, reducing cooling costs.
2. Install Large Windows
Maximize natural light in your home by incorporating large windows, a design feature that has both aesthetic and practical advantages. Not only does abundant natural light reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, but it also enhances your connection to the outdoors, promoting a greater sense of well-being.
3. Experiment with Painted Floors
Revive the historical practice of painting floors, a tradition that dates back centuries and adds a touch of character to any space. Painting floors can be a cost-effective solution for refinishing old floors that have endured multiple sandings, as well as a creative way to enhance new flooring. This timeless technique can infuse your home with a unique and captivating aesthetic.
4. Choose Timeless Materials like Marble
Opt for enduring materials like marble, which have been prized for their beauty and durability throughout history. Incorporating these timeless materials into your home design can elevate its elegance and ensure long-lasting quality that transcends fleeting trends.
By embracing these historic design traditions, you can not only infuse your home with timeless charm but also enhance its functionality and efficiency.
Marble elements on stairs and wall panels continue to impress with their luxurious and beautiful appearance even after more than 125 years since installation. It is recommended to invest in timeless materials like honed marble to avoid the need for replacements, thus saving on renovation costs in the future.
It is advised to choose marble slabs for kitchen and bathroom countertops, backsplashes, as well as shower walls for a touch of ultimate luxury. Tile marble floors can be installed in bathrooms and kitchens, or even in smaller spaces like entryways. According to Adams, the appeal of using any stone lies in its living finish that improves with age. Opting for timeless marble like Carrara or Danby ensures that you won’t need to renovate your bathroom for at least 20 years.
Adding a porch to a new or existing home can provide additional living space at lower construction costs compared to a fully finished space. Porches have historically been added to homes to improve residents’ health and wellness, especially during epidemics, and continue to offer a comfortable way to enjoy nice weather while expanding living space.
Brick exteriors can give a historic look to a home’s exterior while exuding a sense of luxury and permanence. Unlike wood siding that requires repainting every few years, brick exteriors are a lasting investment that maintains its regal appearance over time.
Ribbon driveways, characterized by two strips of gravel or brick leading into a yard, offer a charming alternative to wide asphalt driveways. They require less material and cost than traditional driveways, adding a touch of charm reminiscent of wagon wheels or carriage tracks.
Heavy draperies, originally used to keep out the cold during winter, now serve both a practical and decorative purpose in modern homes. They can help reduce heating bills in colder climates while adding a luxurious and soft touch to rooms, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Antique lighting fixtures add a special touch to a home, evoking the charm of historic homes. While some antique fixtures may be expensive, others can be found in thrift stores and refurbished to add character to a space. Choosing an antique lighting fixture ensures lasting quality and adds a unique touch to the home’s decor.
Cullum expresses a sentiment about embracing wear and patina as a familiar and reassuring aspect of a trend. He highlights that these items existed before us and will continue to exist beyond us, making us stewards of these cherished possessions. Check out these Spectacular Gifts for the Most Stylish Women in Your Life and discover 16 Gorgeous Indoor Plants for Homes of All Sizes.
