While older homes come with a considerable amount of charm and character, they can also feel dated. Finding a balance between maintaining the charm and also keeping it modern is a delicate process. Get it wrong, and you could lose all of your home’s character, yet get it right and you might just have a masterpiece on your hands.
The best part is, that modernizing your home doesn’t have to require a huge budget or a full overhaul. Sometimes it’s as simple as a few strategic updates. Here are some of the best tips for making an older house more modern.
Used with permission from J Patryce Design
Refresh the Paint
One of the most straightforward and effective ways to modernize an older house is simply updating the paint. Whether you paint the exterior or replace the old wallpaper with a fresh coat of paint, a new color and texture can make a world of difference.
Try to go for contemporary colors like soft grays or beiges. These create a clean backdrop that allows you to use modern furniture pieces, creating the perfect balance between new and old.
Used with permission from J Patryce Design
Update Lighting
Do you have an old chandelier that looks like it could be something out of a 1970 sitcom? It’s time to get rid of it! Dated light fixtures can make your home feel eons older than it actually is.
Used with permission from J Patryce Design
Replacing lighting in key areas like the living room kitchen and bathrooms can create a much more modern look and feel. Not to mention, you may significantly see an improvement in your energy bill, since more modern fixtures may require less electricity.
Used with permission from J Patryce Design
You may want to additionally consider adding dimmer switches, which can allow you to control the temperature and ambiance of each room, creating a more versatile living environment. While you’re at it, don’t forget the power of natural light. The more light you can allow in from the outside, the less you’ll have to rely on artificial lighting.
Used with permission from J Patryce Design
Update Your Kitchen and Bathroom
Most real estate agents will tell you that a dead giveaway of the age of a home is found in the kitchen and bathroom. These are usually the most dated areas of a home, yet unfortunately one of the most important areas to modernize. If you haven’t done it yet, you’ll want to replace old hardware with new ones, and outdated-looking fixtures with sleeker ones. Consider swapping out your countertops, and don’t forget about the floors!
Opting for more modern materials won’t just look better, but can actually be more practical for upkeep and cleaning. Not to mention, many modern and alternative materials are actually more durable than their predecessors. So, it can be a great investment to make a few upgrades. Thanks to Paint Pals for consulting.
