Last week, we asked our social media audience to write in with any questions that they have about achieving “old world charm” in their new house or preserving it in their old one. Below are some of the amazing questions we received and our responses. We hope that it helps you on your home renovation journey!

Q: Can you share any tips for old solid wood paneled doors that squeak and are a pain to close/lock?

JBT: It sounds like you might have a love-hate relationship with your old creaky doors, understandably so!  An old solid wood door is beautiful, strong, has excellent noise reducing qualities and maintains historical authenticity. But it also comes with maintenance like everything else in life. I would advise you to have a trained professional check the hinges, hardware, door jambs and casings, they are probably in need of some TLC and may even need to be replaced (a lot more cost effective than replacing all your doors).  Luckily enough, there are plenty of hardware brands that carry historically accurate knobs and levers that will make your doors look beautiful while also making them functional again.

Hardware that we are adding to a client’s old Georgian Colonial’s exterior door (coming this Spring). Photo Courtesy of Baldwin Hardware

Q: If you could boil it down to just one thing for old-world in a new home, what would it be?

JBT: Millwork, millwork, millwork.  If you are building a new home and you want it to have that been-there-longer-than-you feeling then you have to pay special attention to the windows, doors, flooring, and molding.  It is so important to hire the right professional team that has the same idea of “charm” that you do, and understands the updated period look that you are trying to achieve.  If you move into a new construction that you purchased without being able to make those crucial millwork selections, have no fear the right paint colors, wallpaper, lighting, accessories and furniture could do the talking and turn a blank slate into a space flowing with character. 

Layers of millwork that we designed to make a new entry look old.

We are bringing old world charm to a newer home with an antique rug, warm tones and layered textures. Scheme coming to life this Spring.

Q: I fell in love with my house because of its charm so I feel bad painting the wood trim.  Any words of wisdom?

JBT: I am happy to report that you are not the first person, nor will you be the last, to experience this guilt.  For us it’s all about balance so if you choose not to paint the wood, you could enhance its beauty with complementary wallpaper, art, paint colors and furnishings, or you could re-stain it in a lighter finish. If you do choose to paint it, try a saturated hue to maintain its special quality and moodiness or for a space with a whole lot of heavy brown, paint it a light neutral and bring in charming yet fresh finishing touches.

In this jewel box of a powder room, we painted the original trim a sapphire blue to coordinate with the wallpaper and moody vibe.

Q: I inherited some antique furniture that I would like to incorporate into my more modern house, how?

JBT: Is there anything better than adding sentimental pieces to your home?  I think not. Don’t hesitate or feel bad about changing an inherited piece, I’m sure your loved one(s) would appreciate you giving it a second life and enjoying it. The best way to incorporate your beloved furniture would be to have it professionally cleaned, restored, repainted and/or reupholstered to better suit your space. 

Q: To paint our wood trim or not to paint it?  That is my question.

JBT: Great question, see above.

Q: What should I expect during the interior renovation of my old house?

JBT: In short, expect the unexpected.  When you start breaking down walls and gutting entire rooms expect budget tweaks, exterminator visits, and for larger renovations you will most definitely want to consider renting or moving in with family.  Surprises in all shapes and forms will arrive but the journey will be worth it for the personalized, functional, and beautiful home that you and your family will get to enjoy for years to come.