The Subtle Feature That Gives Old Homes So Much Charm

When it comes to visual interest and enchanting atmosphere, there is nothing quite as lovely as a vintage home. They possess traditional elements that have withstood the test of time and come back into style, as many homeowners are craving architectural reminders of yesteryear. One underrated design facet of old homes is the railing that ornaments the staircase. Railings have so much to offer aesthetically in addition to being a safety necessity. The entire railing, or balustrade, could be made out of a single wood or metal for a cohesive look, or, for a design that stands out, the balusters and banister could be constructed from different materials to create contrast. 

A stylistic highlight of railings in old homes is that the integrity of the material is ever-present. This is especially true of railings that are made of textural materials like authentic hardwood. The aged look and feel of the durable wood is aesthetically pleasing on its own, while railings with detailed carvings showcase artistic craftsmanship and give the home a touch of exclusivity. These could include vivid historic designs that harken back to Victorian architecture, or a subtle floral-inspired end cap that adds softness while serving as a visual finishing touch. Railings can also be made of metals like classic wrought iron, which is easily customizable for creating decorative balusters. Compared to modern-day solutions like harsh steel or glass railings, with their hidden downsides, the inclusion of vintage designs to accent the staircase will make a home feel unique and lively. 

While there are many vintage home features that people love, a beautiful aged railing that surrounds the staircase creates a cozy feeling that is unmatched. One of the greatest advantages of older railings is that they likely include ornate elements like scrollwork, nature-inspired motifs, and turned balusters with elegant curves. Restoring these established designs is far more cost-effective than paying for a new custom railing to be created. In comparison, retrofitting a new banister may mean that the layout needs to be adjusted, which could lead to costly and time-consuming renovations to the floor plan of the staircase. Also, older homes tend to have stronger, sounder construction. This means the railing in a vintage home that has been well-maintained can remain in the house for years to come.

There are also ways to update an older railing to look more modern while still staying true to the original design. Consider painting your stair railing, which has never been easier with TikTok's genius sock hack. This will give the staircase a fresh pop of color without compromising the structure. Re-staining a wood railing is a great way to make it look new while still highlighting the material's personality. Refurbishing wood railings will create warmth, while shining iron banisters will reinforce an industrial look.