Friday, June 26, 2015

San Francisco Interior Design: Keeping the Charm

San Francisco Interior Design: Keeping the Charm


Owning an old Victorian “Painted Lady” of San Francisco sounds dreamy. That is, until you move in and discover you have no idea how to keep that old-world charm while keeping up with the times. Choosing an interior design that accentuates a home with “character” while still making it livable in the 21st century is challenging, and with this challenge, space planning is key! 


First of all, it’s important to really understand San Francisco Victorian homes. As you may know, the interesting color schemes are meant to show off the intricate detailing in the architecture and in the 60’s they became part of “the colorist movement” (many houses were painted gray during the time of WWII). These homes are literally historic works of art!

Knowing the history behind these homes, it’s absolutely important to choose your interiors carefully. The interior should showcase the same level of artistic expression and care as the outside does. However, that doesn’t mean you need to decorate with your grandmother’s discarded knick-knacks. Make sure to keep your style fresh, vibrant and most importantly, true to you. 


Due to the intricate design of these homes, when it comes to interiors, simple is sometimes better. Look how beautifully the modern tile and décor works with the classic mirrors.



Are you a modern minimalist? A white color scheme can work well with the elaborate detailing in a Victorian home! 



Wallpaper like the one featured in our Pleasant Hill design above, can work wonderfully in an older home, while modern furnishings and décor give it an updated look. 


Don’t be afraid to be eclectic. Display your collections, portraits and cool finds. Go thrift store shopping!


Mix antique furnishings with modern appliances for a perfect blend of old-meets-new.

Do you have an older home with a unique design? We’d love to see pictures and hear your stories.

Kelly Tivey
Kelly Tivey Interior Design






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