6 Things In Erie Homes That Are Making A Comeback + 4 That Have Always Had Timeless Style
Homes today strike a balance between evolving design trends and timeless classics, creating a space where nostalgia meets modern style. As Erie homeowners embrace both innovation and tradition, certain elements are making a resurgence, while others continue to define the enduring character of local residences.
From revamped fixtures to long-loved design staples, these homes reflect a dynamic yet rooted approach to interior design.
1. Shiplap Walls
Remember those horizontal wooden boards that adorned grandma’s cottage? They’re staging a triumphant return in Erie homes across the peninsula.
Shiplap walls add texture and dimension to any space while evoking a cozy, lakeside charm. Many homeowners are installing these wooden panels in entryways, accent walls, and bathrooms for that perfect blend of rustic and refined.
2. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Clean lines and organic curves have homeowners swooning once again. The functional elegance of mid-century design feels right at home against Erie’s historic architecture.
Mid-century modern pieces feature tapered legs, geometric patterns, and materials like teak and walnut. Local vintage shops report these items flying off shelves as residents embrace this style’s perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
3. Bold, Dark Colors
Gone are the days when every wall had to be beige or gray! Erie homeowners are embracing their dramatic side with deep, rich hues transforming living spaces.
Navy blues, forest greens, and charcoal blacks create statement walls that pop against white trim. These darker palettes perfectly complement Erie’s moody lake views and overcast winter days, bringing warmth and character to interiors throughout the year.
4. Open Shelving In Kitchens
Cabinets are taking a backseat as Erie kitchens embrace the airy feel of exposed storage solutions. The trend celebrates both function and style in equal measure.
Open shelving displays cherished dishware and creates visual breathing room in smaller spaces. Erie homeowners are mixing materials like reclaimed wood and industrial metal brackets to achieve that perfect balance of warmth and contemporary edge in their cooking spaces.
5. Statement Light Fixtures
Overhead lighting is having its spotlight moment! Forget subtle illumination – Erie residents are installing conversation-starting fixtures that demand attention.
Statement lighting serves as functional art in local homes, from oversized pendants to sculptural chandeliers. These bold pieces often incorporate materials with significance to Erie’s industrial past, like brass, copper, and glass, creating a perfect marriage of heritage and contemporary design.
6. Vintage And Retro Appliances
Pastel-colored refrigerators and chrome-trimmed stoves are making waves in Erie kitchens. The nostalgic appeal of yesteryear’s appliances brings personality to cooking spaces.
Retro-inspired appliances combine old-school aesthetics with modern functionality. Local homeowners appreciate how these statement pieces nod to Erie’s rich history while still offering energy efficiency and technological conveniences that their authentic counterparts lacked.
7. Hardwood Floors
Unlike passing fads, these natural beauties have graced Erie homes for generations. Walking into a century-old Frontier neighborhood house often means treading on the same oak planks that have witnessed decades of local history.
Hardwood floors offer unmatched durability against Erie’s harsh winters and humid summers. Their ability to be refinished rather than replaced makes them both environmentally and economically sound investments that continue to appreciate with age.
8. Classic Brick Fireplaces
Winter evenings in northwestern Pennsylvania practically demand a cozy hearth. The crackling warmth of flames against rugged brick creates an irresistible gathering spot during Erie’s legendary snowfalls.
Brick fireplaces anchor living spaces with their substantial presence and earthy tones. Many local homeowners preserve these original features during renovations, recognizing their intrinsic value in both practical heating and as architectural focal points that tell stories of the region’s past.
9. Neutral Color Palettes
Soft whites, warm beiges, and gentle grays never seem to lose their appeal in lakeside properties. These versatile backdrops adapt beautifully to Erie’s changing seasons and shifting natural light.
Neutral walls provide the perfect canvas for displaying colorful Lake Erie artwork and locally-sourced decor. Their timeless quality means homeowners can refresh accessories without major renovations, allowing personal style to evolve while maintaining a serene foundation.
10. Custom Wood Cabinetry
Handcrafted storage solutions continue to reign supreme in Erie’s most beloved homes. The rich character of natural wood brings irreplaceable warmth to kitchens and bathrooms alike.
Custom cabinetry supports Erie’s local economy by employing skilled regional craftspeople. Many homeowners choose native species like cherry and maple, creating a direct connection to Pennsylvania’s forests while ensuring durability that withstands decades of daily use and changing design preferences.
