Century homes are filled with architectural details that reflect the craftsmanship and character of their time. While homeowners often focus on major elements like fireplaces, flooring, and moldings, many historically significant details go unnoticed or are removed during renovations.
Restoring these often-overlooked features can enhance a home’s authenticity, preserve its history, and even increase its value. This guide explores some of the most underappreciated features in century homes that deserve careful restoration.
Rediscovering Hidden Treasures in Century Homes
Original Interior Doors and Hardware
Many century homes were built with solid wood doors featuring intricate panels, transoms, or glass inserts. Over the years, these may have been replaced with modern alternatives, or their original hardware may have been swapped out for contemporary fixtures.
Restoring these doors by refinishing the wood, repairing hinges, or reinstalling antique hardware can bring back their charm. If original brass or glass doorknobs, hinges, and keyhole covers have been removed, salvaging period-appropriate replacements can enhance authenticity. Even painted-over doors can often be stripped and refinished to reveal their original craftsmanship.
Decorative Plasterwork and Ceiling Medallions
Ornate plasterwork was a common feature in Victorian and early 20th-century homes, particularly in parlors, dining rooms, and entryways. Ceiling medallions, crown moldings, and decorative cornices added elegance and defined different areas of the home.
Unfortunately, these details were often damaged or removed during modern renovations. If remnants of plasterwork remain, they can be carefully restored or replicated using traditional plaster techniques. Ceiling medallions, in particular, can be salvaged or sourced from architectural salvage shops to reintroduce period charm.
Built-In Cabinets, Shelving, and Window Seats
Many century homes featured built-in elements designed to maximize storage and enhance the home’s functionality. Built-in china cabinets, bookshelves, and window seats were often integrated seamlessly into walls or under staircases, providing practical storage while maintaining aesthetic cohesion.
During past remodels, these features may have been removed to create open floor plans or accommodate modern furniture. If remnants of built-ins exist, restoring them can add both charm and functionality. For missing built-ins, period-appropriate reproductions can be crafted to match the home’s style.
Stained Glass and Leaded Windows
Century homes often included stained glass or leaded glass windows in entryways, stairwells, or transoms. These decorative elements not only added beauty but also played a functional role in diffusing light.
Over time, stained glass windows may have been replaced with plain glass or covered up due to changing tastes. If original stained glass remains, restoring or repairing cracked panels and reinforcing lead came can help preserve their beauty. Salvaged stained glass pieces from similar time periods can also be incorporated into the home to maintain historical accuracy.
Vintage Light Fixtures and Switchplates
Original light fixtures, including gas-to-electric chandeliers, sconces, and pendant lights, were designed to complement the home’s architectural style. In many cases, these fixtures were replaced with modern lighting, stripping the space of its historic ambiance.
Restoring or rewiring original fixtures allows homeowners to maintain historical character while ensuring modern safety. Additionally, early 20th-century homes often had ornate brass or porcelain switchplates, which can be refinished or replaced with period-appropriate reproductions to add a small but impactful historical detail.
Original Flooring and Staircases
Many century homes were built with high-quality hardwood flooring, but over time, these floors may have been covered with carpet, linoleum, or tile. Homeowners often overlook the potential for restoring original wood flooring hidden beneath layers of newer materials.
Sanding and refinishing hardwood floors can bring them back to life, revealing the character and durability that modern flooring often lacks. Additionally, staircases with hand-carved newel posts and balusters may have been painted over or modified—stripping paint and refinishing the wood can restore their elegance.
Transom Windows and Pocket Doors
Transom windows, which sit above doors to allow airflow and light, were a common feature in older homes. Many of these have been sealed shut or removed in renovations. Similarly, pocket doors, which slide into the walls to save space, were often replaced with standard swinging doors.
Restoring transom windows to their functional state can improve ventilation while adding to the home’s period charm. If pocket doors still exist but are stuck in place, they can often be repaired and reinstalled rather than replaced.
Ornamental Ironwork and Porch Details
Century homes often featured intricate ironwork on stair railings, balconies, and gates, as well as decorative woodwork on porches, such as gingerbread trim, spindle railings, and beadboard ceilings. Over time, exposure to the elements may have led to deterioration, while some features may have been removed entirely.
Restoring porch details with historically accurate materials or salvaged elements can revive the home’s exterior charm. Ornamental ironwork can often be cleaned, repainted, or repaired to preserve its original design.
Fireplace Tiles and Surrounds
Fireplaces in older homes were often framed with decorative tile, carved wood mantels, or stone surrounds. Many of these elements were removed or covered over in renovations, replaced with modern facades or drywall.
Uncovering and restoring original fireplace tiles or mantels can dramatically enhance the home’s historical ambiance. If original tiles are missing, salvage yards often carry period-correct replacements, allowing homeowners to restore the fireplace to its former glory.
Final Thoughts
Century homes are filled with overlooked architectural details that, when restored, can bring back their historical character and charm. From built-ins and vintage lighting to plasterwork and stained glass, these hidden gems deserve careful attention and preservation. Whether homeowners choose to restore original features or source period-appropriate replacements, these efforts help maintain the home’s authenticity and enhance its unique beauty for generations to come.