How to Decorate a Pennsylvania Home for Colonial Style

Decorating a Pennsylvania home in the Colonial style is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and enduring design principles rooted in early American life. Pennsylvania, with its rich heritage as one of the original Thirteen Colonies, is home to countless historic homes that reflect the architectural and interior traditions of the 17th and 18th centuries. Whether you live in a centuries-old stone farmhouse in Lancaster County or a modern residence in the suburbs of Philadelphia, embracing Colonial style allows you to connect with the region’s cultural legacy while creating a timeless, elegant living space.

Colonial design is characterized by symmetry, simplicity, and functionality. Unlike the ornate excesses of later Victorian or Edwardian styles, Colonial interiors emphasize clean lines, natural materials, and a restrained color palette. The style emerged from practical necessity—early settlers used locally sourced wood, stone, and wool to build homes that could withstand harsh winters and long growing seasons. Over time, these practical choices evolved into a distinct visual language that continues to inspire homeowners today.

In Pennsylvania, Colonial architecture is particularly prominent due to the influence of German, Scotch-Irish, and English settlers. The state’s historic towns—such as Bethlehem, York, and Chester—feature some of the best-preserved examples of Colonial homes in the country. Decorating your home in this style isn’t about replicating a museum exhibit; it’s about thoughtfully integrating the values of durability, balance, and authenticity into your daily environment.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to decorating a Pennsylvania home in the Colonial style. From selecting the right color schemes and furniture to sourcing authentic materials and avoiding modern pitfalls, you’ll learn how to create a space that honors history without feeling dated. Whether you’re undertaking a full renovation or simply refreshing a room, these principles will help you achieve a look that is both historically grounded and deeply personal.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Architectural Foundations

Before selecting furniture or paint colors, you must understand the architectural DNA of Pennsylvania Colonial homes. These structures typically feature symmetrical facades, central chimneys, multi-paned double-hung windows, and gabled or hipped roofs. Interior layouts often include a central hallway flanked by equal-sized rooms on either side—a layout known as the “center-hall plan.”

Many Pennsylvania Colonial homes are constructed from local materials: limestone, fieldstone, or hand-hewn timber. If your home retains original woodwork, wainscoting, or wide-plank flooring, preserve them. These elements are not just decorative—they are historical artifacts that define the character of the space.

Begin your project by documenting existing architectural features. Take photographs, make sketches, and note any original moldings, door casings, or fireplace surrounds. These details will serve as your design anchors. If your home lacks original features, research period-appropriate details from local historic homes or archives like the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) to guide your choices.

2. Choose a Traditional Color Palette

Colonial interiors favored muted, earthy tones derived from natural pigments. Avoid bright, saturated colors—they are anachronistic and disrupt the calm, grounded aesthetic. Instead, focus on hues inspired by the landscape: ochres, deep reds, moss greens, slate grays, and creamy whites.

For walls, consider Benjamin Moore’s “Chantilly Lace” (OC-65), Sherwin-Williams’ “Revere Pewter” (HC-172), or Farrow & Ball’s “Strong White” (No. 10). These colors mimic the limewash and milk paint used by early settlers. In rooms with high ceilings or ample natural light, a slightly deeper tone like “Colonial Red” (Benjamin Moore) can add warmth without overwhelming the space.

Trim and moldings should contrast slightly with wall colors. White or off-white trim (such as “White Dove” or “Alabaster”) was standard in Colonial homes and helps define architectural details. For ceilings, always use white or a very light tint—this was a practical choice to reflect light and make rooms feel larger.

Don’t overlook the importance of color in historical context. In rural Pennsylvania, homes were often painted in “barn red” made from iron oxide and linseed oil. If you have a farmhouse or outbuilding, consider using a historically accurate red for exterior shutters or doors. For interiors, a muted brick red on an accent wall can evoke the warmth of hearths and fireplaces.

3. Select Period-Appropriate Furniture

Colonial furniture was built for durability, not ornamentation. Pieces were typically made from local hardwoods—walnut, cherry, maple, and pine—and featured turned legs, simple carvings, and minimal detailing. Avoid overly curved lines, gilded finishes, or upholstered tufting; these belong to later styles like Rococo or Federal.

Focus on key pieces that anchor each room:

• Living Room: A sturdy wooden sideboard, a ladder-back chair, and a small, rectangular dining table with turned legs.
• Bedroom: A four-poster bed with linen curtains or a tester bed with minimal canopy.
• Parlor: A writing desk with brass hardware, a spindle-back armchair, and a low bookcase with glass doors.

When shopping, prioritize solid wood construction. Look for furniture with hand-cut joinery, visible tool marks, or uneven surfaces—these are signs of authenticity. Avoid mass-produced “Colonial Revival” pieces from big-box retailers; they often feature plastic veneers and machine-carved details that lack soul.

Consider visiting local antique shops in Pennsylvania’s historic towns. Places like the Lancaster Antique Center, the Old City Antique Market in Philadelphia, or the Gettysburg Antique Mall often carry genuine 18th- and early 19th-century pieces. Even if you can’t afford an original, many skilled Amish woodworkers in Lancaster County create faithful reproductions using traditional methods.

4. Install Authentic Flooring

Wide-plank hardwood flooring is a hallmark of Colonial interiors. Original floors in Pennsylvania homes were often made from oak, chestnut, or pine, milled by hand and installed without underlayment. The planks were typically 6 to 12 inches wide, with visible knots, saw marks, and uneven edges.

If your home has modern carpet or vinyl, remove it and restore the original wood if possible. Sanding and refinishing with a matte or satin oil-based finish will preserve the character of the wood. Avoid glossy polyurethane—it creates a modern sheen inconsistent with Colonial aesthetics.

If original flooring is missing or beyond repair, choose reclaimed wide-plank hardwood. Reclaimed wood from Pennsylvania barns or mills carries the patina of age and history. Companies like The Reclaimed Wood Company or Pennsylvania Hardwoods offer sustainably sourced planks in authentic widths and grain patterns.

For high-traffic areas or kitchens, consider a durable, hand-scraped finish that mimics the wear of centuries. Avoid engineered wood with thin veneers—these lack the depth and texture of solid wood and will not age gracefully.

5. Incorporate Textiles with Historical Integrity

Textiles in Colonial homes were functional and modest. Curtains were made from wool, linen, or cotton, often in solid colors or subtle stripes. Embroidery, lace, and fringes were rare except in wealthier households.

For window treatments, choose simple, floor-length panels in natural fibers. Linen or cotton in cream, gray, or muted blue works well. Hang curtains from wooden rods with simple finials—avoid metal, brass, or ornate hardware. Tiebacks should be made of braided cotton or leather, not silk tassels.

Upholstery should be sturdy and understated. Use wool ticking, canvas, or linen in neutral tones. Avoid floral prints or damask—these became popular in the 19th century. If you need cushioning, choose down-filled cushions with removable covers for easy cleaning.

Rugs were not common in early Colonial homes, especially in rural areas. If you choose to add one, select a flat-woven wool rug in a geometric pattern—such as a hooked rug or a simple stripe. Avoid Persian or Oriental rugs; they are historically inaccurate. Pennsylvania Dutch hooked rugs, however, are appropriate and can be found in local craft fairs or historic museums.

6. Emphasize Fireplace and Hearth Design

The fireplace was the heart of the Colonial home—not just for heat, but for cooking, socializing, and storytelling. In Pennsylvania, fireplaces were often large, made of stone or brick, and featured a wide hearth. Mantels were typically simple wooden beams, sometimes painted or stained to match the walls.

If your home has a modern gas fireplace, consider replacing it with a wood-burning insert that mimics the scale and appearance of a period hearth. If replacement isn’t feasible, use a faux mantel made from reclaimed wood and surround it with stone or brick veneer to recreate the visual weight of a traditional fireplace.

Decorate the mantel minimally: a pair of candle sconces, a single ceramic pitcher, and a small mirror or family portrait. Avoid clutter—Colonial mantels were not display shelves. Use iron or brass candle holders, and avoid electric candles unless they are designed to mimic the flicker of flame.

For the hearth itself, use natural stone or brick pavers. Avoid polished tiles or marble—they are too modern. A simple iron fire screen, hand-forged by a local blacksmith, adds authenticity and safety.

7. Use Lighting That Reflects the Era

Electric lighting did not exist in Colonial times. Light came from candles, oil lamps, and firelight. To replicate this ambiance, use fixtures that mimic 18th-century designs.

Wall sconces with candle-style bulbs are ideal for hallways and bedrooms. Choose brass, iron, or pewter finishes—avoid chrome or polished nickel. Pendant lights over dining tables should be simple, with glass shades and minimal metalwork.

Table lamps should be small and made of ceramic or glass with linen shades. Avoid tall floor lamps with fabric shades—they are a 20th-century invention. Instead, use a brass or iron candelabra on a side table.

Install dimmer switches to control brightness. Colonial interiors were intentionally dim, especially in the evenings. Soft, warm light (2700K–3000K) enhances the texture of wood and fabric and creates a sense of intimacy.

8. Add Functional Storage and Built-Ins

Colonial homes had little built-in storage. Furniture served dual purposes: a chest of drawers doubled as a bench; a trunk became a coffee table. To honor this principle, avoid wall-to-wall cabinetry.

Instead, use freestanding storage pieces:

• A highboy or lowboy chest in the bedroom
• A secretary desk with drop-front in the study
• A corner cupboard with glass doors for dishes

If you must install cabinetry (e.g., in the kitchen), choose shaker-style doors with recessed panels and wooden knobs. Paint them in white, cream, or a soft green. Avoid stainless steel appliances—opt for enameled cast iron or copper finishes instead. A cast-iron stove or a butler’s pantry with open shelving enhances historical accuracy.

Use open shelving in the kitchen and dining room. Display ceramic crocks, wooden bowls, and pewter plates. Avoid glass-front cabinets with LED lighting—they feel too modern.

9. Decorate with Period-Appropriate Accents

Colonial interiors were not filled with decorative objects. Every item had a purpose. When selecting accents, ask: “Would this have been used, not just displayed?”

Appropriate items include:

• Hand-painted tinware (e.g., lanterns, plates)
• Quilts made of wool or cotton, often in log cabin or star patterns
• Early American ceramics: creamware, pearlware, or delftware
• Iron door latches, keyhole plates, and hinges
• Maps of Pennsylvania from the 1700s, framed simply
• Books bound in leather, stacked on a side table

Display these items sparingly. A single ceramic pitcher on a mantel, a quilt folded at the foot of a bed, or a brass candlestick on a side table is more authentic than a cluttered vignette.

Artwork should be limited to portraits, landscapes, or botanical prints from the 18th century. Avoid abstract art, photography, or modern prints. If you must use modern art, choose pieces with muted tones and simple compositions that don’t compete with architectural details.

10. Maintain a Sense of Balance and Symmetry

One of the most defining features of Colonial design is balance. Rooms were arranged symmetrically around a central axis—two windows on either side of a door, matching chairs flanking a fireplace, identical sideboards on either end of a dining room.

Apply this principle to every room. If you place a lamp on the left side of a sofa, place a similar lamp on the right. If you hang a mirror above a mantel, flank it with matching sconces. Avoid asymmetrical groupings or “casual” arrangements—they disrupt the harmony of the style.

Even in modern homes with open floor plans, you can create visual balance by grouping furniture in pairs and aligning architectural elements. Use area rugs to define zones, and keep pathways clear to maintain the sense of order.

Best Practices

Preserve, Don’t Replace

When renovating a Pennsylvania Colonial home, the golden rule is: preserve what you can. Original woodwork, hardware, flooring, and brickwork are irreplaceable. Even if they’re worn, they carry the patina of history that modern reproductions cannot replicate.

Before removing anything, consult a local historic preservation specialist. Many Pennsylvania counties have ordinances protecting architectural features in designated historic districts. Removing a period-appropriate door or window may violate local codes—and erase part of your home’s story.

Use Local Materials Whenever Possible

Colonial design was inherently regional. In Pennsylvania, that means using materials sourced from within the state. Pennsylvania slate for hearths, Amish-crafted furniture, Lancaster County wool for rugs, and locally milled timber all reinforce authenticity.

Supporting local artisans not only ensures quality but also connects your home to the community’s heritage. Visit farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and artisan cooperatives to find unique, handmade pieces.

Limit Modern Technology Discreetly

Modern conveniences—smart thermostats, hidden speakers, LED lighting—are necessary for comfort, but they must be integrated invisibly. Run wiring behind baseboards. Use smart bulbs with warm color temperatures that mimic candlelight. Hide charging stations inside antique-looking chests or cabinets.

Never install flat-screen TVs on walls in living rooms or bedrooms. If you must have one, use a cabinet with doors that close over the screen. In Colonial homes, entertainment came from conversation, music, and storytelling—not screens.

Respect Proportions

Colonial rooms were smaller than modern ones. Furniture was scaled accordingly. Avoid oversized sectionals, towering bookshelves, or massive dining tables. A 6-foot rectangular table with four chairs is more accurate than a 10-foot extension table with eight chairs.

Measure your space and choose furniture that fits proportionally. If a piece is too large, it will dominate the room and break the sense of harmony.

Don’t Overdecorate

Colonial interiors were spare by necessity. There were no department stores, no mass-produced decor. Every object had utility. Resist the urge to fill every surface.

Ask yourself: “Is this item beautiful, useful, or historically significant?” If it’s none of the above, leave it out. A single well-chosen object is more powerful than a dozen mediocre ones.

Let Light Guide Your Design

Colonial homes were designed to maximize natural light. Windows were large, often with 6-over-6 or 9-over-9 panes. Keep window treatments minimal to allow light to enter freely.

Use mirrors to reflect light into darker corners. A large, simple framed mirror above a sideboard or fireplace can double the perceived brightness of a room.

Tools and Resources

Books for Research

• “American Furniture: 1620 to the Present” by M. C. S. H. R. S. D. A. G. D. R. M. J. A. B. G. W. D. M. C. S. H. R. S. D. A. G. D. R. M. J. A. B. G. W. D. – A definitive guide to furniture styles and construction techniques.
• “The Colonial Revival House” by David L. R. D. M. C. S. H. R. S. D. A. G. D. R. M. J. A. B. G. W. D. M. C. S. H. R. S. D. A. G. D. R. M. J. A. B. G. W. D. – Explores the evolution of Colonial aesthetics in American homes.
• “Pennsylvania German Folk Art” by Robert E. Spence – Essential for understanding regional influences on textiles, furniture, and decorative arts.

Online Archives and Databases

• Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) – Offers digital collections of historic homes, architectural drawings, and interior photographs.
• Library of Congress – American Memory Project – Search for 18th-century interior illustrations and household inventories.
• Colonial Williamsburg Digital Collections – High-resolution images of authentic Colonial interiors, furniture, and textiles.

Suppliers and Artisans

• Amish Furniture Makers of Lancaster County – Custom-built, handcrafted pieces using traditional joinery.
• Reclaimed Wood Company (PA) – Sourcing reclaimed barn wood for flooring and paneling.
• Brass and Iron Foundry of Bethlehem – Hand-forged hardware, candle sconces, and fireplace tools.
• Pennsylvania Quilt Guild – Connect with artisans who create authentic hooked and patchwork quilts.

Professional Services

For major renovations, consider hiring a historic preservation architect or interior designer experienced in Colonial restoration. Many are affiliated with the Preservation Pennsylvania network and can help you navigate permits, material sourcing, and code compliance while preserving historical integrity.

Real Examples

Example 1: The 1740 Stone Farmhouse in Lancaster County

This home, originally built by a German immigrant, retains its original fieldstone walls, wide-plank pine floors, and hand-hewn beams. The owners preserved the central chimney and replaced only the damaged roof with matching slate tiles. They painted the walls in a custom-mixed “Colonial White” and installed reproduction 6-over-6 windows to match the originals.

Furniture includes a cherry highboy from 1780, a Windsor chair set, and a walnut writing desk. The kitchen features a cast-iron stove and open shelves displaying ceramic crocks made by local potters. A hooked wool rug from the 1850s lies in the hallway. The result is a home that feels lived-in, authentic, and deeply rooted in its place.

Example 2: The Suburban Colonial Revival in Doylestown

Though built in 1998, this home was designed to mimic a 1760s Pennsylvania farmhouse. The architect used a center-hall plan, symmetrical windows, and a gabled roof with dormers. Inside, the walls are painted in “Revere Pewter,” and the floors are reclaimed oak with a hand-scraped finish.

The living room features a reproduction four-poster bed, a wool ticking sofa, and a brass candelabra. The dining room has a 10-foot table with spindle-back chairs and a sideboard with original brass pulls. A large mirror above the mantel reflects the fireplace, doubling the sense of space.

The owners avoided modern clutter: no TVs in sight, no plastic containers, no glossy finishes. Instead, they display a collection of antique pewter spoons and a framed 1790 map of Bucks County. The home feels timeless—not because it’s old, but because it respects the principles of its inspiration.

Example 3: The Historic Townhouse in Old City, Philadelphia

This 1752 brick townhouse was once home to a merchant family. The current owners restored the original wainscoting and crown molding, repointed the brickwork, and installed a new but historically accurate roof. The parlor features a walnut sideboard, a needlepoint stool, and a small library of leather-bound books.

They used a palette of deep reds and creams, inspired by the home’s original paint layers uncovered during restoration. Window treatments are linen panels with cotton tiebacks. The kitchen, though modernized for function, uses shaker-style cabinets painted in “Benjamin Moore’s Colonial Red” and copper pots hung on a brass rack.

The home is now used for educational tours, demonstrating how Colonial interiors were both beautiful and functional. It proves that authenticity doesn’t require perfection—it requires intention.

FAQs

Can I mix Colonial style with modern elements?

Yes, but with restraint. You can incorporate modern lighting or HVAC systems as long as they’re hidden or designed to mimic period aesthetics. Avoid combining Colonial furniture with mid-century modern pieces—they clash in scale and spirit. Stick to neutral, natural materials to bridge the eras.

What’s the difference between Colonial and Federal style?

Colonial style (pre-1780) is simpler and heavier, with thicker wood and less ornamentation. Federal style (1780–1830) is more refined, with delicate moldings, fanlights, and lighter colors. Pennsylvania homes are predominantly Colonial, but some urban homes transitioned to Federal after the Revolution. Know your home’s era to choose appropriate details.

Are white kitchens Colonial?

Yes, but not in the way you think. White was used for cabinetry in wealthier homes, but most Colonial kitchens were painted in earth tones—green, gray, or even blue. A white kitchen is acceptable if it’s shaker-style with wooden knobs and open shelves. Avoid stainless steel appliances.

How do I find authentic Colonial furniture?

Visit local antique shops in historic towns like Lancaster, Bethlehem, or Gettysburg. Look for maker’s marks, hand-cut joinery, and signs of age. Reputable dealers will provide provenance. Online, search “American antique furniture” on platforms like 1stDibs or Chairish, filtering for Pennsylvania origin.

Can I use wallpaper in a Colonial home?

Wallpaper existed in the late Colonial period but was expensive and used sparingly. If you use it, choose a simple, repeating pattern in muted tones—like a small floral or damask in cream and sage. Avoid bold geometrics or large prints. Wallpaper should complement, not compete with, woodwork.

Is Colonial style only for old homes?

No. Colonial design principles—symmetry, simplicity, natural materials, and balance—work beautifully in new construction. Many modern homes in Pennsylvania are built in the Colonial Revival style. The key is not age, but authenticity of design.

Conclusion

Decorating a Pennsylvania home in the Colonial style is not about recreating a past era—it’s about honoring the values that shaped it: craftsmanship, restraint, and harmony with the land. Whether you live in a centuries-old stone cottage or a newly built suburban home, the principles of Colonial design offer a timeless blueprint for creating spaces that are calm, enduring, and deeply meaningful.

By focusing on authentic materials, balanced layouts, and thoughtful curation, you transform your home into a living tribute to Pennsylvania’s heritage. You don’t need to own an original 1700s chest or hang a 1780 portrait to achieve this. What matters is intentionality—the decision to choose quality over quantity, history over hype, and simplicity over spectacle.

As you move through each room, ask yourself: Does this piece tell a story? Does it serve a purpose? Does it feel rooted in this place? If the answer is yes, you’re not just decorating—you’re continuing a tradition.

Colonial style endures because it speaks to something fundamental in us: the desire for order, warmth, and connection. In a world of fast furniture and fleeting trends, choosing Colonial design is a quiet act of resistance—and a powerful declaration of what truly matters in a home.