Timeless by Design — As Featured in Redfin
- Sunni L. Goodson
- May 5
- 3 min read

Historic homes hold a special place in my work, and I was honored to share some tips with Redfin in their recent feature on thoughtful renovation. Whether I’m designing for a centuries-old house or a new build, the goal is always the same: to create something timeless and deeply personal.
From honoring original details to navigating modern updates with care, this piece highlights practical ways to approach renovation with both respect and vision. I’m proud to be featured alongside other thoughtful voices in the field. If you're considering a renovation — or simply love historic architecture — it’s worth a read.
Below, I’m sharing a few of the things I love most about working with historic homes — and how they continue to inform my approach to creating enduring design, no matter the era.
The chance to honor a story already in motion. Historic homes come with a narrative — weathered floors, timeworn trim, the patina of generations past. I love working with those layers, not erasing them. It’s less about reinventing and more about listening closely to what the house is trying to say. In contemporary homes, incorporating high-quality pieces and elements that are deeply personal to the owners creates a similarly rich narrative.
Timelessness that transcends trends. Designing within a historic framework pushes me to think beyond what’s current and ask instead: what will still feel beautiful in 20 years? That pursuit of enduring elegance is what I find most rewarding — and it applies no matter the design language you’re drawn to. Whether it’s the flow between rooms, the relationship between interior and exterior, or the pieces you choose to live with, it all comes down to thoughtful decisions. Integrity in form, strong lines, and attention to detail are what make a home feel timeless — not tied to a trend, but rooted in something deeper.
The dialogue between past and present is one of the most rewarding aspects of design. There’s something magical about weaving modern life into old bones — adding comfort and function while preserving the soul of the space. That same balance applies to new builds, too. It’s the thoughtful details that distinguish a Home from something that feels off-the-shelf. Blending contemporary statement pieces or saturated color with antiques or traditional elements brings a layered richness that makes any space feel storied, intentional, and alive.
Craftsmanship worth preserving. Historic homes often reflect a level of care and artistry that’s increasingly rare — the kind of detail you can feel as much as see. I feel a deep responsibility to protect those elements, treating them not as limitations but as creative inspiration. The same principle applies to new design: thoughtful, well-made pieces have a quiet power. They don’t just last — they shape the personality of a home, making it feel grounded, comforting, and truly lived in.
The opportunity to create something deeply personal. Every historic home is a conversation starter. My role is to help clients make it their own — translating who they are into a space that feels soulful, intentional, and made to last for generations. And new homes are no exception. Even without the imprint of time, they offer a blank canvas for meaning. Through thoughtful choices — in materials, layout, and furnishings — we can create a sense of rootedness from the very beginning, shaping a home that feels not just beautiful, but yours.
Historic or modern, every home has a story waiting to unfold. Ready to begin yours? [Let’s talk.]
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