Balancing Heritage + Modernity: How to renovate a luxe classic home with timeless appeal….

I get this request a lot from clients who want to respectfully renovate their homes but don’t know where to draw the line within the renovation as it relates to their home’s architecture. It’s definitely a line to be drawn from an architectural design standpoint. That intricate yet delicate trained line of balancing heritage or classicism with modernity. I’ve seen it done oh so beautifully, however, there are still some renovations that are unbelievably unbalanced and typically rely heavier on the modernity rather than fully embracing the architecture’s heritage, which is so unsettling in my opinion. I feel the urge to share a few tidbits on how to honor your home’s history while bringing it into today’s world with modern materials (exterior + interior) and subtle luxury.


I get this request a lot from clients who want to respectfully renovate their homes but don’t know where to draw the line within the renovation as it relates to their home’s architecture. It’s definitely a line to be drawn from an architectural design standpoint. That intricate yet delicate trained line of balancing heritage or classicism with modernity. I’ve seen it done oh so beautifully, however, there are still some renovations that are unbelievably unbalanced and typically rely heavier on the modernity rather than fully embracing the architecture’s heritage, which is so unsettling in my opinion. I feel the urge to share a few tidbits on how to honor your home’s history while bringing it into today’s world with modern materials (exterior + interior) and subtle luxury. Let’s begin! Yeesss! This architecture is neoclassical revival with modern emphasis (peep the gorgeous windows, doors, arch, + balconies). This property is properly stunning utilizing lighting to highlight the asymmetry of the architecture….LOVE!



When planned out accurately, your renovation will marry the architecture’s heritage with modern technology advantageously. Not only will your home reflect you and your family well from an architectural design perspective, it will also create more value from a real estate perspective, which is a win-win! Let’s review a few more extraordinary case-studies to gain more insight on how a great balance of heritage + modernity should appear like!















Sublime examples…yesss! Ensuring that design principles + elements are present as well as embracing the home’s architecture goes a long way in finding great success in luxury home renovations. Those illustrations showcased notable exteriors, let’s journey into some fabulous interiors that also impressively balance heritage with modernism. Yes? Indeed!



Who doesn’t love wide plank herringbone wood floors and arched cased openings and dramatic two-story ceilings with equally dramatic and stunning windows + doors? I mean what is there not to love??? The curated lighting meets the intricate details of the railing as well as the treads and the risers with the dope ceiling details down to the potted plants and simplicity of the neutral color palette. This is one of many sensational interiors we will explore together….lovely, right?




Giving all the warm + fuzzies! Yesss! That’s exactly what great design exudes…








Love the holiday cheer in this space…classic yet plush with a modern touch!





There’s nothing like profound, thoughtful design choices to create a timeless feel…..wouldn’t you agree?








What I wholeheartedly appreciate about timeless design is how versatile + enduring it truly can be when done appropriately. A few minor refreshes every 8-10 years or even longer most times upholds the value of the investment a renovation undergoes. Embracing the home’s architecture with the personalities of the home dwellers as well as modern technology creates a balanced yet profound masterpiece. Old soul; modern spirit. That’s timeless design! I’m definitely here for that! You know, I will always remind you that selecting the right experienced and heavily trained design professionals is half the battle, so select well. I’ve totally enjoyed this lil’ journey and look forward to future chats.



Until next time….

Live.Love.Design.

xo Renae

(All pictures are courtesy of my Pinterest)

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