One of the primary challenges of renovating a historic home is determining what to preserve and what to reimagine. While modern homeowners often want updated functionality, they may also want to retain the architectural details, character, and materials that give an older home its distinctive appeal. The goal is not necessarily to recreate the past, but to strike a thoughtful balance between honoring the home’s original design and adapting it to the way we live today.
Fabiana Hernandez, a lead designer at ITALKRAFT, shares how she approaches updating a traditional home while still preserving its unique historic charm.
When beginning a renovation project, it can be overwhelming to look at the entire design and figure out how to start. I think the best approach is to choose one element in the home’s original design that you want to preserve and use it as a foundation for the rest of the space. This creates a clear starting point and provides a guiding reference for larger design decisions.
Materials play an important role in establishing and maintaining a specific design style. In this 1930s Mediterranean-style home, for example, we used a modern interpretation of Shaker-style doors that were popular during the period. The updated design preserves the character of the original style while giving it a contemporary feel.
Updating appliances is often one of the key reasons homeowners choose to renovate. However, modern functionality does not have to come at the expense of the home’s original aesthetic. When selecting new appliances, consider how their finishes, proportions and overall appearance will complement the surrounding design. The goal is to incorporate modern conveniences in a way that feels intentional and cohesive with the character of the home.
Fixtures are another important detail to consider when renovating a traditional home. Selecting fixtures that reflect the style and period of the original architecture can be a simple yet effective way to preserve its character. From hardware to lighting, these smaller details can help create a cohesive design throughout the home.
Many older homes were designed around distinct rooms and defined spaces, with each area serving a specific purpose. While modern living may call for more open and flexible spaces, maintaining certain walls and architectural divisions can help preserve the home’s original character. Thoughtfully adapting the existing layout, rather than completely reconfiguring it, allows the renovation to feel connected to the home’s history.
Design is constantly evolving, but many of today’s most compelling ideas are rooted in the past. There are valuable lessons to be learned from historic architecture and design, particularly when it comes to proportion, materials, and craftsmanship. At ITALKRAFT, we believe the best designs build on these fundamental principles while embracing new ideas, technologies and evolving styles.