26 Charming Design Features Found in Older Homes That Tell a Story

Picture molding and paneling and stained glass — oh my! These design details of the past aren't dated; they tell the unique story of your home. Sure, there are plenty of ways to add character to a new build, but there are some historic details found in older homes that you just can't manufacture — and that's what makes these spaces so special. Read on to see the design features often found in older homes that are worth embracing — not replacing!

First up is this grand, entryway staircase in a historic Texas home. Designer Marie Flanigan preserved much of the British-inspired architecture in this space, including the elaborate, turned-wood railing that catches your eye as soon as you walk in the door.

Often found in historic bungalows and Craftsman-style homes, pocket doors take up less space than inward- or outward-swinging doors. Pocket doors are created by framing the inside of walls with enough hollow space to accommodate a track that allows the door to slide inside of the wall when opened.

Ornate, coffered ceilings can change the look and feel of an interior space. This element brings a little excitement and character to the fifth wall. The coffered ceiling seen here features an all-white design, but you can also leave the wood beams natural and paint inside the squares. The design options are endless!

Built-in bookshelves are a great way to add charm to your living room while housing books and other knickknacks. This feature not only adds appeal, but also function — because who couldn't use a little more storage.

Homes across the country featured glass doorknobs after the US entered World War I. The metals that were typically used to create doorknobs at that time were sent to support the war effort — hence, the creation of glass doorknobs. Not only are these unique and beautiful details, glass doorknobs are made to last.

Pro tip: To clean and preserve your glass knob, do not immerse it in hot water because the glass may crack. Instead, try wetting a rag with a warm water and vinegar mixture, and rub the doorknob clean.

Many older homes have spectacular windows that were built to specifically fit the home. Restoring the original windows will keep true to the intended character and look of your home.

Mixing modern and antique features can be a great way to nod to the original style of your older home. This antique bathroom mirror is paired with more modern elements, while the mirror stands out as the star of the show.

Archways are visually appealing ways to separate rooms that soften corners and bring a classic charm to your home. Most newer homes have square door frames, but embracing existing archways will set your home apart from the rest.

Dutch doors originated in the Netherlands and are more commonly found in older coastal homes and farmhouses. Opening the top half allows a breeze to circulate throughout the home, while keeping children and pets in. This Dutch door, seen on Fixer Upper, was original to the home. Hosts Chip and Joanna Gaines painted it with a faux finish to look like stained wood grain.

Transom windows were originally implemented over doorways or windows to allow additional natural light and airflow throughout a home. Besides these practical purposes, transom windows can also be used as decorative details.

Adorning the edge where the wall meets the ceiling with eye-catching trim is a common feature in older homes. If your house has crown molding, particularly in formal spaces like the living room or dining room, it's always a good idea to try to repair any damaged portions rather than removing this classic detail.

With a little elbow grease, you can clean your home's original light fixtures and keep them shining for years to come. The polished nickel chandelier looks right at home in this rustic-meets-refined space. A wall-mounted brass lantern adds more antique charm and nautical flair.

Many older homes come with gorgeous stained glass windows. These pieces instantly give the home a sense of history and charm and produce dazzling colors throughout the day.

Wood paneling is a wall treatment that has seen many iterations over the decades. The warm paneling paired with picture molding in this den is a very traditional take, but paneled walls also had a resurgence in the '70s that homeowners have been painting over ever since. Paneled walls are having another renaissance of late, so if your home features one (or more) of these wood-clad walls, consider putting down the paintbrush.

Exposed brick is an architectural feature found in older homes and apartments alike. This Brooklyn brownstone is bursting with textural, rustic appeal thanks the exposed masonry. Floor-to-ceiling windows in their original casements are also a unique, historic detail.

Before furnaces, homes were heated by wood-burning fireplaces. Not only is a fireplace a functional home element, it also gives off an aroma many homeowners love.

Pro tip: Before using your wood-buring fireplace, be sure to have a professional check your chimney to ensure it is safe for a fire.

In the renovation of this New York City penthouse, the designers were careful to protect and highlight the original details, like the plasterwork on the ceiling. Painting the walls white and keeping the design scheme spare helps to draw the eye up to the stunning embellished ceiling.

This dining room feels steeped in history with its original, deep-colored woodwork and leaded glass doors on the built-ins. Whether you have leaded glass on exterior or interior doors and windows, this historic detail adds inimitable charm.

If your home has a beautiful old tile design that needs a little love, you can try cleaning it to preserve this feature. Pairing a mosaic tile with more modern cabinetry and colors, like in the picture above, is a great way to nod to your home's original design, while embracing modern amenities.

A butler's pantry traditionally housed expensive silverware, so it could be safely locked away. Today these spaces are still used to store additional serving ware, and many include a beverage fridge and small sink area.

Announcing your arrival in the pre-doorbell era was done via a door knocker. These old-school front door embellishments can come in many different shapes, sizes and designs.

A clawfoot tub is still a highly desirable bathroom amenity that adds character and charm to any style of home. Most are constructed of cast iron and, with a good cleaning, can last for years to come.

Originally implemented to protect the bottom half of walls from dirt, scuffs and the mess of everyday life, wainscoting has also become a stylish home element. There are many different patterns of wainscoting that work for different designs styles and spaces. This entryway is clad with white wainscoting and topped with lilac walls, creating subtle contrast that still allows the wainscoting to shine.

Nothing says '70s style like avocado green fixtures. If your bathroom features this design trend, try embracing the green and create a serene space with what your home has to offer. This bathroom has avocado green features paired with white walls and cabinetry, creating a tranquil color palette.

Before the miniature, fish-eye peepholes we all know today, doors had cutouts you could open and look through. The peephole in this antique door is surrounded by a wrought iron grill and is a conversation-starting feature.