Being a traditionalist, a historian and a preservationist, my life and work has been shaped by historic architecture and all that it contributes to how we experience our surroundings. Clients embraced the suggestions of adding architectural detail to a project, and would be amazed at the nuanced character such features brought to a completed project.

Having served on the Chestnut Hill Community Association’s Development Review Committee for over 28 years, though, it was always challenging to get architects and developers to incorporate even the smallest bit of historic architectural detail to their developments. It seemed that creating historic architecture was often labeled as “Disneyfying” a project.

Anyone who is a traditionalist at heart understands how historic features add depth, appropriate scale and that all important element, character, to a building. Not only does architectural style reflect the political and industrial landscape of a specific era, it also conveys the social and emotional mores of that period. When you identify with the characteristics of that period, you seek to be surrounded by them.

Several weeks ago, an article entitled “When Looking Older Than Your Age Is a Compliment” crossed my desk. It was written by Leonora Epstein, a design journalist and editorial consultant for The New York Times. Finally, historic architectural detail, even re-creations, are being supported as an acceptable, even imperative, form of design.

Of course, it would be preferable to actually find a historic home, resplendent with original trims, true divided fenestration, random-width plank flooring, plaster walls, solid oak beams and fully updated mechanical and electrical systems. But since finding such a structure could take years, there is now the option to build it yourself.

Replicating architectural history is not for the faint of heart. Knowledge of architectural time periods and their associated characteristics is just the beginning. An understanding of the appropriate materials, how they were used then, and how they translate to use today is critical. The time to research sources that can provide those materials and the information on any adjustments or modifications required is also very important.

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to design an authentic colonial kitchen and attached keeping room (sitting area). We were lucky to have a very resourceful contractor who learned of the pending demolition of a large tavern in Bucks County. Without a minute to spare, we visited the site and were able to salvage not only the original random-width pine floor boards, but several large ceiling beams and three raised-panel oak doors. The removal and transportation to our project site was not cheap, but having authentic patinated architectural components were the basis of an authentic historic re-creation, and also served as a key “green design” application.

My clients were captivated by the interior of the Barns-Brinton House in Chadds Ford, Chester County. Their favorite feature was the oversized fireplace and the particular design of the keeping-room mantel. We all decided that had to be the design focal point of the clients’ keeping-room area. Once again, our contractor painstakingly replicated the complex lines and exact elements of the mantel, which grounded the space and created the focal point of the room.

Other elements added to the authenticity of the space. Along with oak-paneled walls and wainscoting, a dense coat of textured plaster was used between the ceiling beams. Lanterns were designed and assembled using parts found in the basement of the former Harvey Stern and Co. antiques in Germantown, and an antique butcher-block table served as the kitchen island. Brass rim locks were obtained from Baldwin Brass, and copper hardware, a faucet and sink added to the historic replication.

We are fortunate that there are still companies that offer specific molding profiles, ceiling medallions, columns, rosettes and stair fittings from different architectural periods. There are still architectural salvage yards at the ready, and furniture companies will still custom build a perfectly sized settee or drop-leaf spindle table.

Keep in mind that a successful historic re-creation depends on consistency, believability and a deep understanding of classical architecture. Strive for authenticity, and be confident in knowing that it is now more than OK to be inspired by history.

Patricia Cove is Principal of Architectural Interiors and Design in Chestnut Hill and consults on renovation and restoration projects in and around Philadelphia.