Joanna Gaines Revealed the No. 1 Tip She Learned When Renovating Her 1800s Farmhouse

Joanna Gaines is known for turning houses into homes, making them warm, inviting spaces that feel both timeless and personal. In the cover story of the fall 2025 issue of Magnolia Journal, she lets readers in on her latest project: expanding her late-1800s farmhouse to better accommodate family gatherings. The renovation combines historical authenticity with modern functionality, offering lessons for anyone looking to add on to an older home—and welcoming in more loved ones.

Period-Perfect Renovation: Jo’s Biggest Tip

When it comes to renovating a historic home, Gaines has one clear piece of advice: Choose materials and finishes that feel like they belong to that time period.

“Because our house was built in the late 1800s, I made sure our design plans included trimwork that matched the rest of the house, flooring that came across as aged rather than too contemporary, and light fixtures, furniture, and decor that all looked like something you’d find in an old house,” she explained.

This approach ensures that additions blend seamlessly with the original architecture. Instead of feeling like a futuristic add-on, the new spaces appear as though they’ve always been part of the farmhouse, preserving its character while enhancing functionality.

Designing for Family Gatherings

The renovation was inspired by Gaines’ desire to create space for her growing family.

“A handful of years ago, my mom announced that she was ready to pass on hosting our annual family gatherings and that the torch was mine if I wanted it,” she said. “Of course, I said yes. I love every part of bringing people together: dressing up the table, creating the menu, and the reward that comes as the food settles and all that’s left to do is sink into warm conversation.”

With five children and a vision for hosting holidays and family celebrations, the new addition needed to accommodate large gatherings without compromising on charm or cohesion in the historic home.

“The most important elements I knew right away: The room needed to be big enough to seat a lot of people (even if that meant two dining tables), and because our home was built in the late 1800s, I wanted this new space to look and feel as if it had always been there,” she adds.

Renovation Lessons Learned

1. Match trim to the original home. Choose molding and trim that reflect the period of your house for a seamless look.

2. Select flooring that feels aged. Avoid overly modern finishes—instead, opt for materials that appear naturally worn or historically accurate.

3. Choose period-appropriate fixtures. Light fixtures, furniture, and decor should feel like they could’ve belonged to the original home.

4. Plan for function and flow. If you’re adding space for gatherings, make sure the room is large enough to accommodate the way your family entertains.

Gaines’ renovation approach balances the practical needs of modern living with the timeless details of historic design. By carefully selecting elements that match the original architecture, she ensured that the expanded farmhouse feels natural, cohesive, and inviting. Her attention to detail demonstrates that even when adding on to a home, respecting its history is key to achieving a seamless look.

A Home for Today and Tomorrow

This renovation highlights how intentional design can enhance family traditions: The expanded space allows Gaines to host large meals, create memorable celebrations, and bring loved ones together in a home that feels true to its roots—but still embraces the future.

“A different picture popped into my head on that Easter morning,” she recalled about her vision for the farmhouse. “A maybe-someday image of all of us in one room at one long table, maybe two, face to face and shoulder to shoulder.”

The Magnolia Journal fall 2025 issue hits newsstands August 15, and it can also be purchased online at Magazines.com. This issue offers readers an intimate look at how one of America’s most beloved and accomplished designers thoughtfully renovates historic homes, creating spaces that feel timeless, welcoming, and built for family life.