How to Give Period Homes a Modern Refresh: Tips from SJ Interior Designs

Owning a period home is a privilege—whether it’s a charming Victorian townhouse, a stately Georgian manor, or a classic mid-century modern gem. These homes often come with character, architectural details, and a sense of history that can be hard to find in newer builds. However, while their vintage appeal is undeniable, period homes sometimes need a little TLC to meet modern living standards.

At SJ Interior Designs, we specialise in blending the old with the new. A period home doesn’t have to feel stuck in time. With the right approach, you can refresh its design while still preserving its charm and unique character. Here’s how you can give your period home a stylish, functional modern makeover.

1. Embrace the Beauty of Original Features

One of the biggest appeals of period homes is the historic detailing—ornate mouldings, high ceilings, traditional fireplaces, and original hardwood floors. Rather than covering these features up, it’s important to embrace and highlight them in your modern refresh.

• Restoration Over Replacement: If your home has original elements like a beautiful fireplace, intricate cornices, or stained glass windows, restoring them instead of replacing them can be a way to bring the home into the modern era while keeping its soul intact. A skilled restoration can help preserve these timeless details and allow them to shine in contemporary settings.

• Highlighting Architectural Details: Modern design doesn’t have to mean minimalism. In fact, pairing classic period features with sleek, contemporary designs can create an exciting contrast. For example, a modern sofa in a bold fabric or a minimalist light fixture can beautifully complement a grandiose period chandelier or carved wood paneling.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: In period homes, even simple modern touches—like adding a statement piece of art or using glass tables and metal fixtures—can help create a fresh contrast while maintaining the historical charm.

2. Bring in Light with Modern Windows and Doors

Older homes often have smaller windows, which can make rooms feel dark and enclosed. Introducing modern glazing can bring a contemporary touch to a period property while enhancing natural light.

• Larger Windows and Glass Doors: If you’re in a position to remodel, consider replacing outdated windows with larger ones or adding floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a garden or terrace. This can instantly brighten a room and bring the outdoors in.

• Period-Style Windows with a Modern Twist: If you want to maintain the traditional look, opt for modern windows that mimic the original design but offer better insulation and soundproofing. There are energy-efficient, double-glazed sash windows that can be a perfect fit for Georgian or Victorian homes.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: To modernise an entryway or living room, consider replacing an old wooden door with a sleek glass one. This allows natural light to flood into the space, opening up the room without losing the warmth and character of the home.

3. Open Up Floor Plans Without Losing Character

One common issue with period homes is their sometimes compartmentalised layouts. While this is part of the charm, the layout can feel restrictive in today’s open-plan living culture. The key is to modernise the floor plan while preserving the historic appeal.

• Removing Non-Structural Walls: If your home’s layout allows, consider removing non-load-bearing walls to create a more open living space. This can help improve flow, especially in areas like kitchens and living rooms, while preserving the integrity of the home’s overall structure.

• Zoning with Modern Design: In period homes with large rooms and open spaces, you can zone areas with modern furniture or flooring. A large open-plan living room can still feel cozy and intimate by grouping furniture around a central focal point, like a fireplace or a media wall.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: In homes with traditional wainscoting or paneling, try introducing a contrast by painting the wainscoting a neutral tone while opting for more vibrant or contemporary color schemes on the upper walls. This modernises the space without sacrificing its period character.

4. Modernize Your Kitchen and Bathrooms with a Fresh Twist

Kitchens and bathrooms in period homes often feel outdated and not as functional as modern spaces. However, you don’t have to sacrifice period charm to get a more efficient, updated design.

• Open Shelving and Smart Storage: If you're working with a period kitchen, opt for open shelving to display vintage crockery or elegant glassware. Integrating smart storage solutions like pull-out pantries or hidden drawers can give your kitchen a modern feel without sacrificing charm.

• Blending Modern Fixtures with Vintage Touches: In the bathroom, modern fixtures like rain showers, freestanding bathtubs, and sleek vanities can blend seamlessly with vintage tiles, period-style mirrors, or original floorboards. Mixing contemporary materials, like marble countertops or industrial-style metal fixtures, with classic tiles or vintage sinks can create an effortlessly stylish, updated look.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: If you’re looking to update your kitchen or bathroom without full-scale renovations, consider modernising the accessories—new lighting, sleek faucets, or contemporary appliances—and pairing them with traditional materials, like subway tiles or wooden cabinetry.

5. Introduce Modern Furniture and Decor

One of the easiest and most effective ways to give a period home a modern refresh is through furniture and decor. Modern pieces can bring energy and vitality to a traditional space, creating a beautiful contrast.

• Mix Old and New: Don’t be afraid to mix antique and contemporary furniture. A vintage dining table paired with modern chairs or a classic armchair with a minimalist coffee table can create an eclectic and stylish vibe that feels fresh and contemporary.

• Statement Lighting: Lighting is one of the most powerful ways to modernise a space. Choose modern fixtures that complement the architecture of the room. A sleek chandelier or contemporary pendant lights can add a bold statement to a period dining room or kitchen without overshadowing the room’s historic features.

• Artwork and Textiles: Introduce modern artwork or textiles to bring colour and personality into your space. Contemporary paintings, bold rugs, and colourful throw pillows can infuse modern energy into traditional interiors.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: Use neutral or muted colours for large surfaces (walls, floors, and ceilings), but add pops of colour through artwork, cushions, or statement furniture. This helps maintain a timeless aesthetic while injecting personality and modern style.

6. Maintain a Consistent Color Palette

When refreshing a period home, one of the most important steps is choosing the right colour palette. The right colour scheme can breathe new life into a space and help bridge the gap between old and new.

• Neutral Tones: Neutral tones, such as soft whites, greys, and beige, can make a room feel more spacious and modern while still working with period features. These colours serve as a perfect backdrop for accent pieces that bring in bold, contemporary colours.

• Accent Colours: Period homes often benefit from a splash of colour in unexpected places. Consider using deep greens, muted blues, or soft mustard yellows in accent walls or decor. These colours can work well with both traditional and modern elements, adding a stylish flair to the overall design.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: To keep a period home feeling light and airy, opt for a monochromatic colour scheme, using varying shades of the same colour across different surfaces. This creates a cohesive look while maintaining a sense of sophistication.

Conclusion: Balancing the Old and the New

Giving a period home a modern refresh is all about finding a balance between honouring its history and integrating the comforts and aesthetics of contemporary living. At SJ Interior Designs, we believe that the best designs blend the past and the present, creating spaces that feel both timeless and current.

By focusing on preserving original features, modernising layouts and fixtures, and carefully selecting furniture and decor, you can create a home that feels both fresh and full of character. Whether you’re updating a Victorian townhouse, a Georgian apartment, or a mid-century bungalow, a modern refresh can breathe new life into your period property.

Ready to transform your period home with a modern refresh? Contact SJ Interior Designs today for a consultation. Let’s work together to create a space that celebrates both history and contemporary style.