How to Add Old Charm to a New Home

New homes have many benefits but have less character than old homes.

New homes have many benefits but have less character than old homes. However, there are many projects homeowners can undertake when deciding how to add old charm to a new home. Let's explore a few of them:

Install custom doors

The doors are what visitors see first, even before they enter the house. This presents an excellent opportunity to make a good impression. Hire a contractor to replace the existing plain doors with paneled doors. Vintage doors are an excellent choice because they are detailed and give a home a traditional look and feel.

Blend the furniture

Furniture can make or break the character of a home. Achieve a lived-in look by blending the furniture well. A common mistake is walking into a store and buying all the furniture needed at once. Instead, try collecting unusual pieces over time. The key to an old-looking charm is the slight mismatch.

Go for natural materials

Natural materials are timeless and an excellent choice for those who want to add old charm to a new home. Many new homes have laminate or vinyl floors. While there's nothing wrong with these options, natural materials are a charming option for a homeowner who wants an old-time appeal. Wood floors are an excellent choice.

Consider installing wallpaper

Wallpapers were quite common at the beginning of the 19th century. However, they became outdated because the installation took time and effort. Hanging wallpaper is now easy, thanks to peel-and-stick technology. So cover those blank walls with beautiful patterns and see how much difference it will make.

Address the cabinet pulls

There was no acrylic or brushed aluminum cabinet hardware in the old days. Consider replacing those builder-grade cabinet pulls with glass knobs. Glass knobs were popular in the 19th century because world wars significantly reduced the metal supply.

Change the lighting fixtures

Builder-grade lighting is generic and doesn't add character to a new home. Instead, switch the lighting fixtures to something more detailed, like an antique lantern or a chandelier, for a more traditional look.

Revamp the light switch panels

Contractor-grade light switch panels are too bland and don't add any character. Moreover, they're easily overlooked because they are nearly unnoticeable. Replacing these light switch panels with brass and nickel finishes can be a great reminiscence of bygone eras. While this revamp might seem small, it significantly adds old charm to a new home.

Consider custom wainscoting

Wainscoting is a great way to enhance any blank walls. Consider hiring a professional to install complex wainscoting designs in the family areas and on the main floor for best results.

Get professional assistance

Working with a wood restoration expert is an excellent place to start for those wondering how to add old charm to a new home. Many of the above modifications involve skills beyond the standard DIYer, so the right professional will make the process less worrisome.

The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.