Authentic Designs makes reproductions of colonial and early American lighting fixtures. We began by researching the originals which we found in historic New England inns, museums and private collections, and now recreate them in perfect detail.
The Envi is a super efficient wall-mounted electric panel heater that looks sleek in any setting and is an ideal heating alternative for any DIY renovation or historic home restoration.
Architecturally accurate metal roofing and siding; available in a wide range of colors including prints and vintage inspired patinas; LEED certification is available on some products.
This living history museum is the heart of Portsmouth, New Hampshire's historic city center.
The forms of reproduction hardware may look familiar, but the techniques used to make these pieces have changed dramatically.
Bare but for a thin skin of paint, modern walls are a stylistic aberration. For most of our history, the lower wall has been decently dressed in decorative paneling and various wainscoting styles.
What makes one brand of door hardware better than another—especially if they’re all but identical in style?
Looking to cut your energy costs and perhaps score a tax credit? Plenty of period-friendly windows and doors meet the new standards.
Light the way—and your home’s architectural details—with well-placed landscape lighting.
Whether your taste runs to colonial wire-arm chandeliers or hammered copper with mica shades, period-inspired lighting is easy to love. But are reproductions really functional in this age of halogen lamps and organic LEDs?
Hiding the appliances was standard practice for period-inspired kitchens, but that’s no longer the case. Market innovations allow you to choose among multiple approaches in your design.
Plank walls, paneling, dadoes, batten paneling and beadboard—we delve into five old-house wainscot & wall paneling styles.
The hardest-working surface in the house deserves good cover.
Clear glass may not do the trick in a bathroom. But you shouldn’t sacrifice light, ventilation, or beauty in the quest for seclusion—not when so many period-friendly options await.
The definition of “Americana” has shifted since a first wave of interest ca. 1820, but nostalgic collecting has always been diverse and tied to our enjoyment of artifact.
Old-growth wood trim and flooring may last practically forever, but finishes are ephemeral. They need refreshing when they begin to look worn and dirty.
Want a safe, efficient fireplace? Make sure the chimney is in tiptop condition.
Wood columns, balustrades, and even fretwork can last decades provided they’re cut from long-lived, dimensionally stable wood with a low moisture content.
Porch season is in full swing—a perfect reason to refresh your garden structures and outdoor railings.
Whether welcoming guests at the entry or hiding the contents of a closet, traditional doors are a key element of period millwork.
Find someone near you who can restore your vintage stove or refrigerator with this state-by-state directory.
High-tech lighting illuminates places that period lamps don’t reach.
Original wood floors are a prized feature—when they have survived. For those looking to approximate one, our experts explain what an authentic floor should look like.
Four fireplace inserts that will give you comfort and efficiency without sacrificing the beauty of flame.
Explore early Dutch architecture and great estates curated by Delaware’s first family, the Du Ponts.
Not every historic house had shutters, but many need them to look their best.
