A Guide to Types of Historic Homes and Preserving Their Original Character

Historic houses offer a sense of history, craftsmanship, and character that’s hard to find in newer construction. Learning about the types of historic homes helps buyers and homeowners recognize the architectural details and design elements that define each style – and make more informed buying or renovation decisions.

In this Redfin article, we’ll break down the most common types of historic homes and what sets each one apart, along with thoughtful ways to preserve their original character. From restoring a historic property in Charleston, SC, to maintaining a classic home in Philadelphia, PA, these insights can help guide homeowners in different regions.

In this article:
Why historic homes still matter today
What makes a house “historic”
Common types of historic homes and their defining features
Preserving character while living in a historic home
The philosophy of stewardship in historic homeownership
FAQs: Types of historic homes

Why historic homes still matter today

Historic properties continue to hold value not just for their beauty, but for what they represent – craftsmanship, permanence, and a tangible connection to the past. In a housing landscape often defined by speed and efficiency, these homes stand apart for their detail, materials, and the care with which they were built. They offer something increasingly rare: A sense of place and identity that can’t be easily recreated.

“We value old buildings not because they are historic, but because they cannot be replaced,” states Joe Copley at Old Houses. “It’s no good simply reproducing beloved styles or materials from our past, for that is to look backward. Buildings that are really beautiful – and stay that way – look forward, far into the future. We’ve almost forgotten how to build with that kind of vision. Until we remember, our remaining pre-WWII buildings are all we’ve got.”

This perspective highlights why preservation matters today more than ever. Protecting them ensures that future generations can continue to experience the character and craftsmanship that define these one-of-a-kind spaces.

What makes a house “historic”

A home is typically considered “historic” when it reflects a specific period, architectural style, or cultural significance that has been preserved over time. While some homes receive official designation, many others are valued for their character and original features even without formal recognition. 

It’s also important to note that a home doesn’t need to be officially listed on a preservation registry to be considered historic. Many properties retain their value simply through their design, craftsmanship, and connection to the past – making thoughtful preservation just as important, regardless of designation.

Here are some of the most common factors that define a historic home:

• Age and era. Many historic properties were built before World War II, though the exact age threshold can vary depending on local guidelines or designation criteria.
• Architectural significance. Homes that represent distinct styles – such as Victorian, Colonial, or Craftsman – often qualify due to their design and craftsmanship.
• Original materials and features. Elements like hardwood floors, detailed moldings, original windows, and built-ins contribute to a home’s character.
• Cultural or historical importance. Some homes are tied to notable events, time periods, or local history, adding to their significance.
• Location within a historic district. Homes located in designated historic neighborhoods may be subject to preservation guidelines to maintain the area’s overall character.

Common types of historic homes and their defining features

Historic homes come in a wide range of architectural styles, each shaped by the time period, materials, and cultural influences of its era. 

Victorian homes

Victorian homes are among the most recognizable types of historic homes, known for their ornate detailing and visually striking designs. Built during the Victorian era (roughly 1837–1901), these homes were designed to showcase craftsmanship, individuality, and decorative flair.

Key features of Victorian homes include:

• Asymmetrical facades and complex layouts.
• Steeply pitched roofs, often with multiple gables.
• Bay windows and tall, narrow windows.
• Decorative woodwork, including “gingerbread” trim.
• Bold exterior colors and intricate detailing.
• Wraparound or prominent front porches.

Craftsman homes

Craftsman homes are a hallmark of early 20th-century design, valued for their simplicity, functionality, and emphasis on handcrafted details. Emerging from the Arts and Crafts movement (roughly 1900–1940), these homes were designed as a response to overly ornate styles, focusing instead on natural materials and quality workmanship.

Key features of Craftsman homes include:

• Low-pitched gabled roofs with wide overhanging eaves.
• Exposed roof rafters and decorative brackets.
• Covered front porches with tapered columns.
• Built-in furniture such as bookshelves, benches, and cabinetry.
• Open floor plans with defined yet connected living spaces.
• Use of natural materials like wood, stone, and brick.

Colonial homes

Colonial homes are one of the most classic and enduring types of historic homes, known for their symmetry, simplicity, and formal design. Inspired by early American architecture from the 1600s through the 1800s, these homes emphasize balance and proportion, often reflecting European influences brought by settlers.

Key features of Colonial homes include:

• Symmetrical facades with evenly spaced windows.
• A centered front door, often accented with columns or decorative trim.
• Rectangular, box-like shape with a simple roofline.
• Two or more stories with clearly defined rooms.
• Brick or wood siding, depending on the region.
• Fireplaces commonly located in central or end-wall positions.

Mid-century homes

Mid-century homes, often referred to as Mid-Century Modern, emerged between the 1940s and 1960s and are known for their clean lines, functional design, and strong connection to the outdoors. Influenced by modernist principles, these homes prioritize simplicity, open space, and integration with the surrounding landscape.

Key features of Mid-century homes include:

• Flat or low-pitched roofs with wide overhangs.
• Large windows, including floor-to-ceiling glass and sliding doors.
• Open floor plans with minimal interior walls.
• Integration with nature, often with patios, courtyards, or indoor-outdoor living spaces.
• Use of natural and industrial materials like wood, glass, and steel.
• Clean lines with minimal ornamentation.

Other historic house styles

While Victorian, Craftsman, Colonial, and Mid-century homes are some of the most recognizable types of historic homes, many other architectural styles have shaped neighborhoods throughout the U.S.

Other common historic house styles include:

• Tudor. Known for steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and tall, narrow windows
• Cape Cod. Simple, symmetrical homes with steep roofs and central chimneys designed to withstand harsh weather
• Spanish Colonial. Characterized by stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, arches, and courtyards
• Art Deco. Defined by geometric patterns, bold lines, and decorative detailing popular in the 1920s and 1930s
• Greek Revival. Inspired by classical architecture with columns, pediments, and symmetrical facades
• Italianate. Featuring tall windows, decorative brackets, and low-pitched roofs with ornate detailing

Preserving character while living in a historic home

Living in a historic home often means finding the right balance between modern comfort and original character. While updates are usually necessary to support today’s lifestyles, thoughtful decisions can ensure those changes don’t erase the features that make the home unique. 

“One motivation for buying a historic home is the storytelling inherent to an old house. It’s incredible to think of oneself as treading the same floorboards as someone else did a hundred or more years ago,” adds Cristiana Peña, director of social media for CIRCA Old Houses. “So as you might look around and determine updates necessary to make the home comfortable for your own family in the present, that can be in the back of your mind as a guiding principle: what features define the character of this home and should not be modified, and what changes might we add as our own small fingerprint on this house?” 

To help maintain that balance, homeowners often focus on a few key principles:

• Identify defining features first. Take note of original elements like moldings, flooring, windows, and layout before making changes.
• Prioritize restoration over replacement: Whenever possible, repair and preserve original materials rather than swapping them out.
• Make updates thoughtfully. Modernize kitchens, bathrooms, and systems without disrupting the home’s architectural integrity.
• Choose period-appropriate design. Select finishes and materials that complement the home’s original style.
• Keep changes reversible when possible. This allows future homeowners to restore original features if desired.

Before making long-term decisions about renovations or preservation, many homeowners also start by understanding their overall budget using tools like a home affordability calculator to get a clearer sense of what fits within their financial comfort zone.

The philosophy of stewardship in historic homeownership

Owning a historic home often means thinking beyond yourself and focusing on preserving it for the future. These homes have already lived through generations of change, and each homeowner becomes part of a much longer story. That mindset shifts the focus from making a space entirely one’s own to caring for its long-term integrity and preserving what has allowed it to endure.

“No matter how long you plan to live in a historic home, your time there is brief compared to the life of the home itself,” shares David Kramer, founder, writer, and photographer for The Craftsman Bungalow. “So however you choose to personalize it, you should do so with an eye towards being mindful of the generations of families the home has sheltered in the past. There’s something very fulfilling about a home’s ability to endure, and I believe the more it remains true to its original character, the more meaningful and appreciated it will be long after you’re gone.” 

FAQs: Types of historic homes

How do I know if my home is considered historic?

A home may be considered historic if it is officially designated by a local historic registry or located within a historic district. However, even without official designation, a home can still have “historic character” based on its age, architecture, and original features. Local preservation offices can help confirm a home’s status.

Can you renovate a historic home?

Yes, but renovations often need to follow specific guidelines, especially if the home is in a historic district or officially protected. The goal is usually to preserve the home’s original character while making thoughtful updates for modern living. 

Are historic homes more expensive to maintain?

They can be, depending on the age, condition, and materials of the home. Older systems and specialty materials may require more frequent repairs or skilled craftsmanship. However, many homeowners find the tradeoff worthwhile for the character and long-term value these homes provide.

Are there restrictions when owning a historic home?

Yes, some properties – especially those in designated historic districts – may have restrictions on exterior changes. These rules are typically in place to preserve the architectural integrity of the neighborhood. It’s important to check local guidelines before making significant updates.

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