Embracing Vintage Elegance in a 1940s Home

Written by Katherine Lawless | Design by O’Hara Interiors | Photography by Spacecrafting Photography 

Restoring a vintage home to its former glory while incorporating modern comforts is a delicate balance. The inspiration behind this remodel design was rooted in the home’s original 1940s style and the client’s love for traditional and vintage aesthetics. Throughout the house, every detail from floor to ceiling was thoughtfully considered to enhance rather than overshadow the home’s original charm.

Preserving the Timeless Charm of a 1940s Vintage Home

The house had undergone several renovations over the years under previous owners. The primary goal was to return the home to its 1940s glory, maintaining the traditional and vintage elements that make it unique. The architectural doorways are a standout feature, especially in framing formal spaces like the dining room.  

The millwork surrounding the door is original, reflecting the home’s architectural heritage. The original structure has been preserved, now encased in a stonelike material, complementing the house’s overall aesthetic. This meticulous attention to detail ensures the design feels cohesive and authentic, with each element contributing to the home’s timeless appeal.

Design by O’Hara Interiors | Photography by Spacecrafting Photography 

Bringing in Warmth through Rustic Touches 

The exposed stone walls and wooden beams significantly contribute to the home’s character. Stone adds texture and practicality, especially for the wood-burning fireplaces that are original to the house. The decision to keep these fireplaces as wood-burning rather than converting them to gas was deliberate, preserving the home’s heritage and adding to its cozy atmosphere. Wooden beams bring a rustic character, and faux plaster ceilings contribute to the home’s older charm. All these elements work together to create a timeless, comfortable space. 

The original travertine stone floors, while beautiful, felt cold and harsh. To create a warmer atmosphere, we floated engineered hardwood flooring over the existing tile. These wide plank floors are not only practical but also add to the home’s character while considering proportionality in large spaces like the formal living room. 

Mixing Patterns and Styles

Custom area rugs in the main living and dining rooms further enhance the design. We selected these rugs for their quality and versatility, which coordinates with the home’s color palette. Mixing patterns and styles such as plaid and floral in similar tones creates an organic look that is both cohesive and dynamic. The living room’s card table also features a cowhide rug underneath, adding a touch of whimsy and texture to the space.

Design by O’Hara Interiors | Photography by Spacecrafting Photography

Upcycling Vintage Pieces 

Incorporating vintage pieces was essential to maintaining the home’s character. We refinished a round table with vintage lion head details, discovered by the owner at Goodwill, to perfectly fit the space and add a unique touch. Antique silver urns used as planters and bronzed candlesticks complement the exposed beams and stone walls, adding to the home’s eclectic charm. Favorite vintage items like ceramic Dalmatian bookends add a playful and personal touch, creating a lived-in, layered style. 

One of the standout vintage elements is the antique backsplash in the bar area, adding a sense of history and continuity, which complements the vintage hood range in the kitchen.

Incorporating Biophilic Design 

We weaved biophilic interior design elements such as floral patterns and natural materials throughout the home. Vases filled with fresh flowers, floral chair upholstery, and tree-patterned wallpaper in the dining room bring the outside in, creating a connection with nature. The nature-inspired chandelier in the dining room, with its golden branches and cascading crystal raindrops, is a homage to nature. This stunning piece adds a formal “wow” factor and ties in with the home’s overall theme of bringing nature indoors.

Design by O’Hara Interiors | Photography by Spacecrafting Photography

Transform Your Space with a Timeless Vintage Style

Overall, this vintage interior design trends toward a more eclectic, layered, and warm environment that reflects the shift we’ve seen in modern interior design trends and how people view their homes. The stresses of recent years have influenced the desire for a more carefree, less streamlined aesthetic. The home’s blend of vintage charm and modern comforts epitomizes this trend. People are increasingly looking to create spaces that feel welcoming and personal, filled with items that tell a story and bring comfort.

Ready to create the vintage-inspired home you’ve been dreaming of? Start with the foundation of every great room – your floors. Our flooring selection offers a range of durable and stylish options, from timeless hardwood to versatile vinyl, laminate, cozy carpet, and elegant tile. With high-quality options designed to suit your lifestyle, choosing the perfect floor has never been easier.

Not sure where to begin? Our Room Visualizer tool lets you see how each option looks in your space – all from the comfort of your home. When you’re ready, order free samples or contact us. We’re here to help you bring your vision to life, one step at a time.