There’s something special about an older home. The creaky floors, the thick trim, the handmade details – you don’t get that kind of soul in new builds. But if we’re being honest, character doesn’t always equal comfort. Maybe the lighting is dim, the hardware’s stuck in another decade, or the paint hasn’t been touched since you moved in.
The good news? You don’t have to do a full renovation to make your old house feel new again.
Sometimes, it’s the small upgrades that breathe the most life into a space. So if you’re craving a refresh without wiping out the charm you fell in love with, here are six relatively simple ways to give your home a refresh.
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1. Update Your Light Fixtures
Old houses often come with two lighting options: dim or harsh. (You can laugh – that’s a joke. But it’s also kind of true.) With that being said, swapping out outdated light fixtures is one of the quickest, most noticeable changes you can make – and it doesn’t have to be expensive.
Start with your main living spaces. Replace any heavy, brassy chandeliers or flickering flush mounts with modern or vintage-inspired lighting that complements your home’s style. Think globe pendants in the kitchen, a statement light over the dining table, or layered sconces in the hallway. Add dimmer switches to give yourself better control over the mood, especially in rooms that multitask.
2. Repaint Trim and Walls
You’d be amazed what a coat of paint can do for an older home – especially when it comes to the trim. Over time, trim and baseboards get dingy, yellowed, or chipped. Repainting them in a crisp white or a soft neutral can make the entire room feel cleaner and more modern, even if you leave the wall color the same.
Of course, repainting the walls is always an option too. If you go this route, it’s usually best to stick with a light, cohesive color palette if you want your home to feel larger and more open.
The key is choosing colors that feel fresh without clashing with your home’s architecture. Let the bones of the house guide your palette (and don’t be afraid to mix in a bold accent wall or a pop of personality).
3. Replace Outdated Hardware
One of the simplest ways to modernize an older home is by changing the hardware. This includes doorknobs, cabinet pulls, light switch covers, and hinges.
Swapping these out for more modern alternatives can make your home feel updated without a single swing of a sledgehammer. Go for matte black, brushed brass, or even antique bronze to bridge the gap between old and new. And while you’re at it, replace any creaky interior door hinges or drawer slides that don’t open smoothly.
4. Add Stone Veneer for Character
If you’re looking for a bold update that adds both texture and value, stone veneer is a great option. It’s one of those rare upgrades that works just as well inside the home as it does outside.
On the exterior, stone veneer gives your house an immediate facelift. Whether you’re refreshing your front entry, skirting the foundation, or creating an accent wall, it boosts curb appeal and long-term value.
In fact, Remodeling Magazine consistently ranks exterior stone veneer among the best home upgrades for return on investment. In 2024, the average cost recouped was 153.2 percent. In other words, it more than pays for itself in most situations.
But don’t stop at the front porch. Interior stone veneer is a designer favorite for creating focal points that never go out of style. Think fireplace surrounds, entryway accent walls, or a statement backsplash in the kitchen. It can also work in less obvious spaces – like a cozy reading nook, wine cellar, or even the laundry room – bringing texture and dimension without overwhelming the space.
The best part is that you get the look and feel of natural stone, but with easier installation and lower cost. (Just make sure you work with a skilled installer, as placement and finish make all the difference when you’re going for impact.)
5. Mix Modern Decor with Vintage Pieces
The secret to a beautifully refreshed old home is finding ways to highlight the past. When you mix modern elements with the architectural charm that’s already there, you create a space that feels curated.
Here are some ideas:
- Pair a sleek sectional with original wood floors.
- Hang abstract art over vintage wainscoting.
- Set a minimalist lamp on an antique sideboard.
The contrast between old and new adds character and personality – two things you don’t want to lose in the process of updating.
This approach also helps you avoid the “theme park” effect, where every piece feels locked in a specific era. Instead, you create a layered look that’s timeless and flexible.
6. Freshen Up the Floors and Landscapin
Nothing dates a home faster than worn-out floors. If you have original hardwood, consider refinishing instead of replacing. You’d be surprised how far a good sanding and fresh stain can go toward restoring their beauty.
If you’re dealing with tile or vinyl, think about replacing high-traffic areas with something more durable and contemporary. (Engineered hardwood or natural stone are great options.)
Adding it All Up
Updating an older home isn’t about erasing the past as much as it’s about finding a way to preserve some of the old charm and still make it feel modern and functional. These six suggestions should help you do just that in your current home.
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