If you’re the proud owner of a period home, it makes sense to keep the decor and style in keeping with the property. If you’re not sure where to start with your your decor, don’t panic! There’s nothing intimidating about having a period home or just a modern living space that looks like a period home. It’s unique and it’s gorgeous. Of course, there’s a bit of effort that goes into timeless elegance like a period home, but you can 100% achieve it. Here are some tips to help you nail the period look.
Choose Your Era and Aesthetic
While you don’t have to have a 100% accurate period home, it does help if it’s cohesive. Before you start diving into any design project, take some time to research the specific period you want to capture. Do you want something grand like the Victorian era? Are you more of a fan of the simplicity of the Arts and Crafts movement? Each period has its unique style and features.
It also helps to consider the aesthetic you’d like to achieve. For example, if you want something like cottagecore or a rustic style, then changing up the interior or considering landscaping stone for the exterior would work beautifully.
Don’t Skimp on Architectural Details
You absolutely need to keep in mind that architectural details are the heart and soul of a period home. This means you’ll need to look for ways to incorporate period-specific features like crown molding, wainscoting, and ceiling medallions into your space. These details add depth and character, instantly transporting you back in time.
Don’t worry if your home lacks original features – there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to recreate the look with mouldings, trim, and paint, or you can find architectural features to add into your home by sourcing them from reclamation yards.
Hunt for Vintage Treasures
Now, here comes the fun part: thrifting and antiquing! It’s not just the architectural features that make that period look come to life; it’s the furniture and the accessories, too. Looking for vintage pieces is a fantastic way to infuse your home with period charm.
So, why not go ahead and explore thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales for unique pieces that capture the spirit of your chosen era? Charity shops can sometimes offer something unique as well. From vintage furniture and lighting fixtures to antique artwork and textiles, these treasures add a layer of authenticity and warmth to your space.
Find Modern Versions of Classic Features
We’ll be honest, nothing beats thrifting for homeware that has a real history behind it. But, there are some things that you probably don’t want to buy second-hand. For instance, genuinely old bedframes aren’t always sturdy or hygienic. Equally, genuine vintage sash windows and other such features aren’t always functional.
Luckily, there are plenty of modern versions of these classic home additions, and leaning into their potential can be a great way to achieve a period look across your home. Perhaps the best of these has to be replica beams, which, as well as being relatively affordable, can add character like nothing else. Equally, investing in double-glazed sash windows ensures a true Regency era exterior, but with the warmth and ease of use that you want in a modern home. There’s really no limit to what you can do with these modern versions, so do a little research and get to work recreating whichever era appeals to you the most!
