15 Old House Trends We Want to Bring Back
They don't build homes like they used to — but they should.
Clawfoot Tubs
Built-In Details
Laundry Chute
Ceiling Medallions
Transom Windows
Although transom windows were originally used for extra ventilation in buildings with no central air conditioning, we love this over-the-door feature for homes today because they easily flood central spaces with natural light. Bonus? These tiny windows accentuate the height of your ceilings and create an airy feeling in otherwise blocked-off rooms.
Separate Kitchens
Open floor plans are the new normal. And while we still love the open look, we're secretly hoping the closed-off kitchen and dining spaces typical of older homes will make a comeback. Why? Traditional sit-down dining allows families to foster physical tech-free, family-focused boundaries within the home. When was the last time you broke bread sans phone or without a TV blaring in the background?
Interior French Doors
Spiral Staircases
See More Photos: 20 Stare-Worthy Staircases We're Obsessing Over
Fireplaces in Every Room
Wraparound Porch
Ornate Molding
Dutch Doors
Pocket Doors
Before the sliding barn door, we had sliding pocket doors. Sophisticated and clever, this space-saving feature is on our list because it allows a floor plan to easily open for entertaining or section off a room for privacy.
Sleeping Porch
Once upon a time, it was commonplace for homes to have an open-air sleeping porch. Do we really need to explain why this is the best idea ever or does this photo of a plush bed piled high with pillows do the trick?
Designated Nooks
Ah, the nook — yet another trend lost to open floor plans. We want to see more homes with designated breakfast nooks, relaxing reading nooks and unexpected areas carved out from the bones of the house. These are the aspects that make a house feel like a home.
Nooks and Niches: Here's How to Optimize Those Quirky Spaces
