There is something special about the "Old Towne" area of Olive Branch. The historic charm, the established trees, and the unique architecture of our older residences tell the story of Mississippi. However, owning a piece of history often means dealing with aging floors that are creaky, drafty, or simply past their prime. When it comes to renovating historic homes in MS, the goal is to introduce modern durability without stripping away the soul and character of the house.
Respecting the Past While Planning for the Future
The key to a successful historic renovation is finding materials that look like they’ve always been there. In many of Olive Branch’s older homes, you’ll find narrow-plank oak or heart pine. Replacing these with modern, high-performance materials requires a keen eye for detail. You want a floor that provides the comfort of the 21st century while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the early 20th century.
Achieving the Heritage Look with Wide Plank Vinyl
If your original wood floors are beyond repair, wide plank vinyl flooring is an excellent way to restore a sense of grandeur to your home. Modern LVP offers "character-grade" designs that include realistic knots, mineral streaks, and wire-brushed textures that mimic reclaimed wood. These wider planks can actually make smaller, historic rooms feel larger and more open. Plus, unlike the original wood, these floors won't warp in our humid climate. To learn more about the technical side of these planks, read our ultimate guide to waterproof LVP.
Warming Up Drafty Rooms with Luxury Carpet
Older homes are notorious for being a bit drafty, especially during those rare Mississippi cold snaps. Installing luxury carpet for older homes is a practical way to increase insulation and add a layer of warmth to bedrooms and sitting rooms. Choose deep, rich tones or classic patterns that complement antique furniture and crown molding. Not only does it feel better underfoot, but it also helps dampen the creaks and groans of an older structure. For ideas on which styles work best in high-traffic areas of your historic home, see our guide to high-traffic flooring.
Restore Your Home’s Beauty with DeSoto Floors
Your historic home deserves a floor that honors its heritage while standing up to modern life. Whether you are looking for the timeless appeal of wide-plank vinyl or the cozy insulation of a premium carpet, the team at DeSoto Floors has the expertise to guide your renovation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let’s discuss how we can bring new life to your historic Olive Branch residence.

