Old Bones, New Soul

FROM AN EARLY age, Diane Durocher enjoyed spending weekends browsing antique shops and poring through design magazines. Her memories of Thanksgiving dinners at an aunt’s home cemented her love for interior design.

“From the matching, tie-back, pinched pleat panels to the antique chandelier, and from the crackling fire to the impeccably set table, the perfect ambiance seemed to make the meal taste even more delicious,” she recalls. “That was when I realized that a well-designed home is not just a lovely backdrop; it also influences how we live our lives.”

Diane established her interior design firm 30 years ago after graduating from Berkeley College’s interior design program while raising three small children—living with

the regret of not fulfilling her lifelong dream was not an option!

“This is the mindset I’ve taught my children,” says Diane. “Have a career that you love, because what you do for a living is so much of who you are. It’s how we spend the majority of our waking hours.”

Today, Diane Durocher is known not just for her signature elegant-yet-livable aesthetic, but also for her deep understanding of the architectural nuances and charm of older homes—particularly those found in Ridgewood. Her expertise lies in thoughtfully updating historic residences to meet the needs of modern living while honoring their original character. Whether it’s reimagining a dated kitchen, preserving period woodwork, or enhancing natural

light, Diane brings both technical skill and intuitive design vision to every project. In the following Q&A, she shares her insights on the challenges and rewards of renovating older homes and offers expert advice for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces without sacrificing history or soul.

How would you describe your design style, and how does it evolve when working within the framework of an older property?

A home’s architecture should always be considered when designing our clients’ home interiors. Our designs are very eclectic, traditional with a twist. I have always loved art and antiques. I am a firm believer in reupholster, refinish, and repurpose whenever possible, and incorporating my clients’ time-loved pieces into their designs—providing personalization with a fresh perspective!

Tell us about the interior design photos in this article.

Young newlyweds purchased this older Tudor. They requested a traditionally designed home, incorporating a few time-loved pieces with a fresh and youthful palette.

When approaching the redesign of an older home, what’s the first step in your process?

I always ask what we will be working with (furniture, art, rugs, accessories), as it establishes the palette and style. If our clients do not have any pieces to incorporate into the new design (which is rare), I will ask them for visuals and palette specifics.

How do you balance preserving the original charm of a home while making it functional for modern living?

With a mindful and purposeful approach—our clients’ budgets and their goals are always at the forefront.

What are some common challenges you encounter in older homes (e.g., outdated layouts, electrical, plumbing), and how do you address them?

All of the above! We address them carefully and with expert assistance. Proper lighting is key to the functionality of a room. If a room is not well lit, it will most likely not be used. I’m fortunate to be married to a contractor. He’s my phone-a-friend, and I always refer to him when I have a question regarding the built environment.

How involved are your clients in the design decisions when renovating an older property?

It is their home, but we provide the guidance. As design professionals, it is our job to listen to what our clients’ goals are—not only meeting their expectations but hopefully exceeding them. The design process is personal. We prepare them for the disruption as best we can. This is especially important when designing kitchens and bathrooms.

Have you ever had a client who wanted to completely modernize a historic home? How did you approach that conversation?

I’d like to call it respectful modernization. Consideration of the home’s age and style is so important. Trim work, kitchens, bathrooms, and built-ins should reflect the home’s style. How you fill the house with non-permanent decor is entirely up to the individual. However, when you purchase an older home, you become a steward, and you should respectfully update and renovate with the intent to preserve the architectural style.

Are there any current design trends that work well in older homes?

Integrating modern luxury that is stylistically compatible with the home. Antique and brushed gold finishes have made a comeback in hardware, lighting, and accessories.

Have you ever uncovered something unexpected during a project?

We had a client whose old Tudor had undergone previous renovations; however, it lacked a first-floor powder room. This home’s large formal foyer had a closet that we were to transform into a small powder room.

What advice would you give to homeowners considering renovating an older property?

Be prepared for the unknown!

BY KRIS PEPPER