{"id":109942,"date":"2026-05-07T16:17:02","date_gmt":"2026-05-07T23:17:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=109942"},"modified":"2026-05-08T12:13:31","modified_gmt":"2026-05-08T19:13:31","slug":"types-of-historic-homes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/types-of-historic-homes\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Types of Historic Homes and Preserving Their Original Character"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Historic houses<\/span><\/a> offer a sense of history, craftsmanship, and character that\u2019s 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 \u2013 and make more informed buying or renovation decisions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this Redfin article, we\u2019ll 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 <\/span>Charleston, SC<\/span><\/a>, to maintaining a classic <\/span>home in Philadelphia, PA<\/span><\/a>, these insights can help guide homeowners in different regions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article:
<\/strong>Why historic homes still matter today
<\/a>What makes a house \u201chistoric\u201d
<\/a>Common types of historic homes and their defining features
<\/a>Preserving character while living in a historic home
<\/a>The philosophy of stewardship in historic homeownership
<\/a>FAQs: Types of historic homes<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why historic homes still matter today<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Historic properties continue to hold value not just for their beauty, but for what they represent<\/span> \u2013<\/span> 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\u2019t be easily recreated.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWe value old buildings not because they are historic, but because they cannot be replaced,\u201d states Joe Copley at <\/span>oldhouses.com<\/span><\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s no good simply reproducing beloved styles or materials from our past, for that is to look backward. Buildings that are really beautiful<\/span> \u2013<\/span> and stay that way<\/span> \u2013<\/span> look forward, far into the future. We\u2019ve almost forgotten how to build with that kind of vision. Until we remember, our remaining pre-WWII buildings are all we\u2019ve got.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What makes a house \u201chistoric\u201d<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A home is typically considered \u201chistoric\u201d when it reflects a specific period, <\/span>architectural style<\/span><\/a>, 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. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also important to note that a home doesn\u2019t need to be officially listed on a <\/span>preservation registry<\/span><\/a> to be considered historic. Many properties retain their value simply through their design, craftsmanship, and connection to the past<\/span> \u2013<\/span> making thoughtful preservation just as important, regardless of designation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some of the most common factors that define a historic home:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n