There’s something special about historic homes—the stories they hold, the craftsmanship that stands the test of time, and the feeling of stepping into a space that holds a piece of history. But when it comes to renovating, the challenge is always the same: how do we bring a home into the present without losing its soul?
At Anika Schachtler Design, we believe that a historic home should feel both timeless and livable, honoring its past while embracing modern comfort.
We’ve worked on so many century homes, and the ones that feel the most timeless after a renovation are the ones where we respect their history while making them work for modern life. It’s not just about updating; it’s about breathing new life into a space in a way that feels effortless and true to the home’s original character.
Today, we’re sharing a few of the key elements that make all the difference in a historic home transformation. And if you’re dreaming of restoring your own historic home, check out our portfolio to see more of our past projects, or explore our blog for more design inspiration.
01| Preserving Original Woodwork & Flooring
One of the first things we look at in an old home is the woodwork—floors, trim, doors, staircases. These details are often what give a home its warmth and authenticity.
Whenever possible, we love to keep and restore these features rather than replace them. Sanding down original floors, restaining them in a tone that enhances their history, or carefully repairing worn woodwork can instantly bring back the charm that might have been hidden under layers of paint or years of wear.
For homes where some of these elements are missing, we source reclaimed materials or work with artisans who can recreate details that seamlessly blend with the old.
02| Reimagining Layout While Keeping Character
Many historic homes weren’t designed for the way we live today—small rooms, chopped-up layouts, and limited natural light. While opening up a floor plan can make sense, we always approach it with a careful hand.
Instead of completely gutting a space, we look for ways to create flow while keeping the home’s character intact. That might mean widening a doorway instead of removing a wall, adding glass-paneled interior doors to maintain separation while allowing light through, or repurposing a formal dining room into a cozy sitting area without losing the charm of its original details.
03| Blending Old with New Materials
A successful historic renovation isn’t about making everything look old—it’s about balancing old and new in a way that feels natural.
Pairing original wood floors with timeless, high-quality stone countertops. Choosing modern soft furnishings with a classic shape that complements vintage pieces. These small decisions add up to a home that feels cohesive and considered.
04| Custom Details That Feel Timeless
What really makes a historic home shine are the little details that nod to its past while making it feel fresh.
We love incorporating elements like custom millwork, built-ins that match the original era, or even reusing salvaged doors. These touches help tell the home’s story while ensuring that updates feel intentional rather than forced.
Planning Your Own Historic Home Renovation?
If you’re dreaming of restoring your historic home but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the process. Download our free Interior Design Guide here—it’s filled with helpful insights to make your renovation feel less overwhelming and more exciting.
Looking for more ideas on designing with history in mind? Check out some of our other blog posts here, where we share design inspiration, renovation tips, and insights from our latest projects.
And if you're looking for a designer who truly understands historic homes, reach out here—we’d love to hear about your project and see if we’re the right fit.