What features do you miss about older homes that you no longer see in newer homes? Some of the features listed below may surprise you. While some of these ideas have since fallen out of favor, others are regaining popularity. Which ones do you miss the most? Let us know in the comments below! The list will help you plan your next new home. There’s no better way to get started than by deciding what you really need.

Transom Windows Provide Natural Light

While transom windows are typically non-functional, some manufacturers still create them. If you’re considering transom windows for your home, there are several reasons you should consider them. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, they add a unique effect to a floor plan. Here are some of the most notable advantages of these windows.

First and foremost, they let more natural light into a room. This is particularly important in older homes where light may be less plentiful due to insufficient windows. Adding transom windows can improve natural light levels, add architectural interest, and enhance the value of your home. Often, these windows do not open but do have an attractive style. Some are made of stained glass while others feature single panes of glass lined up side-by-side.

Laundry Chutes

The laundry chute has become a rare feature in newer homes. Unlike the drab, old-fashioned laundry rooms that are located on the first floor of most homes, modern homes have laundry chutes that save homeowners a lot of time and energy. These appliances can run in high-efficiency modes and help you conserve energy. You may even be able to install the laundry chute yourself. To ensure you get the right model and installation, be sure to read the instructions carefully.

The history of the laundry chute is murky. It most likely evolved from industrial chutes. The first known laundry chutes were used in factories. Litter chutes were popular in the 19th century, but soon housewives realized their soiled linens were a dangerous source of disease. The invention of the laundry chute is a nod to the pioneering spirit of this device.

Smaller Closets

The emergence of big-box retail outlets and consumer culture in the United States has resulted in larger closets in many new homes. Flat Fee Real Estate Baton Rouge calls this “the Costco closet,” because it gives future homeowners plenty of room for unbeatable toilet paper deals. The lack of closet space is often a deterrent for buying an older home, but creative storage solutions are available to accommodate a limited amount of space.

Closets were first used as private areas in homes during the Renaissance. During the 16th century, Frenchmen and women began using armoires to store tools and weapons. Closets were used in England by the 1550s. These early closets were typically smaller and more akin to a private study than a walk-in closet. They served as places for sleeping, dressing, and praying. In addition to the clothing, these rooms were also used to store books, and some even had fireplaces to keep the room warm.

Less Storage

Older homes often have less storage space than newer homes. These homes may also have smaller floor plans because they were built for larger families years ago. The average single-family home in 1973 was 1,525 square feet. These homes may require renovations to keep up with the latest trends and styles. They may have rusty pipes and rotted foundations, less storage space, and only a one-car garage.

In addition to less storage space, older homes also tend to have lower ceilings and a smaller floor plan. Older homes often have few closets and lack the space needed for appliances. Newer homes have better insulation to retain heat and air, which makes them more energy efficient. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, older homes use more energy than newer homes. Older homes may also require more repairs and maintenance, but if you love the look of an older home, you can find creative storage solutions to keep it in shape.

Lush Landscaping

Older homes often have large yards and lush landscaping. The mature landscaping around an older home is more likely to add to the home’s value. This can increase its resale value and make the home more comfortable to live in. And because newer homes tend to have more modern amenities, they don’t have impressive backyards. Fortunately, many designers are now copying authentic Victorian features.