How to Decorate a Historic Home

Decorating a historic home is a unique opportunity to blend the beauty of the past with the comfort and style of modern living. These homes, whether they’re charming adobes in Santa Fe, elegant Victorians, or stately Colonials, carry a sense of history that deserves thoughtful care and creativity. By preserving original details, embracing period charm, and incorporating contemporary touches, you can create a space that feels timeless, authentic, and uniquely your own.

The first step in decorating a historic home is to honor its original design. Each era—Victorian, Colonial, Spanish Revival, or Pueblo-style homes in Santa Fe—carries unique architectural details worth preserving. Avoid stripping away intricate moldings, exposed beams, or original fireplaces. Instead, let these elements take center stage by choosing decor that complements, rather than competes with, their charm. Preservation not only maintains authenticity but also increases your home’s value over time.

Historic homes are treasures of the past, but they don’t have to feel like museums. Balance timeless architectural elements with modern conveniences. For example, pair a vintage chandelier with sleek, contemporary furniture or incorporate bold artwork in rooms with traditional wainscoting. This creates a layered look that feels fresh yet respectful of the home’s heritage. In Santa Fe, you might combine classic adobe textures with modern metal accents for a uniquely Southwestern blend.

Many historic homes feature high-quality materials like hardwood, natural stone, or clay. Instead of covering these elements, showcase them. Exposed wood beams, original brickwork, or plaster walls tell a story and provide warmth and character that modern finishes often lack. In Santa Fe, think about enhancing natural elements with soft desert tones—terracotta, sand, and turquoise—to create harmony between the home and its surrounding landscape.

When updating an older home, color choices matter. Neutral shades like cream, taupe, or gray create a versatile backdrop that highlights the home’s historic features. For a more vibrant approach, research period-appropriate colors from the era your home was built in. For example, Victorian homes might incorporate rich jewel tones, while Spanish Colonial or Pueblo-style Santa Fe homes often feature earthy hues with pops of cobalt or mustard.

Furniture in a historic home should reflect both comfort and character. Antique or vintage pieces add depth, but they don’t have to dominate every space. Look for high-quality reproductions that capture the aesthetic of the era while offering modern functionality. In Santa Fe, handcrafted wooden furniture, wrought iron pieces, and textiles with Native American patterns can elevate the space while celebrating regional artistry.

Artwork can tie together a historic home’s decor and tell a story of time and place. For example, in a Santa Fe home, display art by local artisans, such as pottery, weavings, or paintings that reflect the desert’s beauty and culture. For homes in other regions, consider artwork from the era when your home was built or vintage family portraits for a personalized touch. This curated approach adds depth and authenticity to every room.

Historic homes can present challenges when it comes to modern living. Upgrades like central air, updated wiring, or a modern kitchen are often necessary, but they should be implemented carefully. Hide modern technology where possible—think built-in cabinets for electronics or custom panels for appliances—so the updates don’t detract from the home’s character. In Santa Fe, consider using natural materials in modern renovations to maintain architectural harmony.

The charm of a historic home often lies in its details: ornate crown moldings, carved mantels, transom windows, or decorative tilework. Make these elements the focal points of your design by keeping surrounding decor simple. For instance, in a Santa Fe adobe home, highlight classic kiva fireplaces with subtle furniture arrangements and warm lighting that draws the eye without overwhelming the space.

Historic homes often feature smaller windows or unique layouts, which can make rooms feel darker. To brighten the space, use light, airy window treatments like linen or cotton and strategically place mirrors to reflect light. In Santa Fe, consider incorporating skylights or glass doors to connect interiors with the stunning desert landscape, creating a seamless flow of natural light throughout the home.

While personalization is important, maintaining historical integrity ensures your home’s unique charm endures. Research the history of your property to understand its original design and any significant changes over the years. When replacing or repairing elements, choose materials and techniques that match the original style. This attention to detail preserves not just the aesthetic but also the cultural significance of your home—especially valuable in historically rich regions like Santa Fe.

Decorating a historic home is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about preserving a piece of history while adapting it for modern living. Whether you’re in the heart of Santa Fe or another culturally rich area, honoring original details, blending eras thoughtfully, and making careful updates can turn your historic property into a timeless sanctuary. When done right, your home becomes a living legacy, telling a story that blends past, present, and future in one beautiful space.

Looking to buy, sell, or restore a historic property? Partner with Paige Cochran, a real estate expert who understands the unique value and beauty of historic homes. Whether you’re seeking a charming adobe in Santa Fe or a Victorian masterpiece elsewhere, Paige can guide you every step of the way. Reach out today and start your journey toward owning a home with timeless character and lasting appeal.