Living in a historic home is like owning a piece of art, and in Franklin, that art comes with front porches, heart pine floors, and stories that stretch back generations. However, when it comes to decorating a historic property, well, that takes a careful touch. From preserving original details to integrating functional updates, thoughtful design can help homeowners bring new life to old spaces without compromising what makes them special.
Why Decorating a Historic Home Is Different
Owning a historic property means you have something unique: authentic craftsmanship, beautifully aged materials, and architecture that tells a story. However, these homes weren’t built for open floor plans, home offices, or 21st-century appliances. Decorating them takes more than just taste; it takes strategy.
Many historic homes in downtown Franklin date back to the 1800s and early 1900s. Whether it's a Greek Revival with towering columns or a cozy Craftsman cottage, your approach to décor should highlight the character while making it livable for today. That’s where understanding historic home decor comes in—blending heritage with personality in a way that feels both grounded and fresh.
Many historic homes in downtown Franklin date back to the 1800s and early 1900s. Whether it's a Greek Revival with towering columns or a cozy Craftsman cottage, your approach to décor should highlight the character while making it livable for today. That’s where understanding historic home decor comes in—blending heritage with personality in a way that feels both grounded and fresh.
1. Start With the Bones—And Respect Them
Before diving into paint swatches or furniture layouts, take time to appreciate your home’s original features. In Franklin, it's common to find original hardwood floors, hand-carved mantels, transom windows, and plaster walls. These aren't just design elements—they’re part of the home's DNA.
Preservation tips:
Preservation tips:
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Keep original woodwork and trim whenever possible. Repainting is fine, but replacing it with modern molding usually erases value.
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Restore old doors and windows instead of swapping them for vinyl or prefab options. Franklin has local craftspeople who specialize in historic repairs.
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Look for old blueprints or documents from the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, which can give you clues about your home’s architectural roots.
Preserving these details creates the perfect foundation for a layered, thoughtful interior.
2. Choose a Color Palette That Compliments the Era
Color can make or break the feel of a historic space. While you don’t have to commit to wallpaper borders and burgundy velvet just because your home was built in 1890, it’s smart to choose tones that echo the period without overwhelming it.
What works well in Franklin homes:
What works well in Franklin homes:
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Soft whites, creams, and greige tones keep the space bright while highlighting wood features.
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Muted blues, sage greens, and deep charcoal shades work beautifully in dining rooms, libraries, and parlors.
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For trim, consider an antique-inspired contrast color like navy or soft black—especially if you’re highlighting original details.
Remember: with historic home decor, the goal is timeless—not trendy.
3. Mix Eras Without Losing Flow
It’s a common misconception that a historic home needs to feel like a museum. The best interiors mix old and new in ways that feel lived-in, layered, and personal.
Here’s how to do it well:
Here’s how to do it well:
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Combine antique or heirloom pieces with clean-lined, modern furniture. For example, pair a 19th-century sideboard with a contemporary dining table.
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Use rugs, art, and lighting to bridge eras. A vintage Persian rug grounds a room, while bold, modern art keeps it current.
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Keep a consistent thread—like a shared color palette or repeated materials (brass, walnut, linen)—so everything flows from room to room.
This kind of thoughtful mixing works especially well in Franklin, where many homes have been lovingly restored but updated over time.
4. Bring Functionality Into the 21st Century
Historic homes weren’t built with smart TVs, walk-in pantries, or dedicated office spaces in mind—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. The trick is integrating modern conveniences in ways that don’t clash with the home’s original character.
Ideas that blend seamlessly:
Ideas that blend seamlessly:
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Built-in storage: Custom cabinetry designed to mimic original millwork gives you modern function without visual disruption.
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Tech hidden in plain sight: Use recessed speakers, smart thermostats in antique casings, or outlets hidden in trim to preserve the look of your rooms.
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Kitchen and bath upgrades: Updates are common in Franklin’s older homes. However, using materials like marble, soapstone, unlacquered brass, and shaker-style cabinetry keeps the upgrades feeling timeless.
5. Tell the Story of the Home—Visibly
One of the best parts of historic home decor is celebrating the history itself. Whether your home was part of Franklin’s early Main Street development or has simply stood through decades of change, those details matter—and you can thoughtfully weave them into your design.
Creative ways to show off your home's story:
Creative ways to show off your home's story:
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Frame and hang old photos of the home or neighborhood, paired with notes about their origin.
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Repurpose original materials—like turning salvaged wood from an outbuilding into a custom bench or floating shelf.
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Display artifacts (old locks, architectural drawings, historic newspaper clippings) in shadow boxes or mixed media wall art.
In a place like Franklin, where historic charm is part of daily life, embracing your home’s story adds meaningful character and a strong sense of pride.
What to Avoid With Historic Home Decor
Even with good intentions, it’s easy to go off course. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
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Gut renovations that erase all character. Modernizing is fine—but keep at least a few original elements to maintain the soul of the home.
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Over-theming. Don’t feel the need to decorate every room like it’s the 1800s. Let the home speak, but make it livable for today.
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Cheap imitations. Avoid using faux finishes or plastic reproductions where the real thing would be better. Quality matters in homes with history.
Final Thoughts
Decorating a historic home isn’t about rules—it’s about respect. Respect for craftsmanship, for the stories within the walls, and for your own vision. In Franklin, where the past and present blend beautifully across neighborhoods and architectural styles, there’s no shortage of inspiration.
Whether you're updating a turn-of-the-century cottage near 5th Avenue or decorating a 1920s Craftsman on Fair Street, thoughtful design choices will help your home stand out while honoring its roots.
Whether you're updating a turn-of-the-century cottage near 5th Avenue or decorating a 1920s Craftsman on Fair Street, thoughtful design choices will help your home stand out while honoring its roots.
Discover Historic Homes With Janelle Waggener
If you’re dreaming of decorating your own historic home—or looking to buy one—Janelle Waggener is here to help. With deep knowledge of the Franklin real estate market and a passion for character-rich homes, Janelle offers expert guidance every step of the way. Reach out today to start your search or learn how to make the most of your property’s timeless potential.