Renovating a period or traditional home can be a thrilling adventure, but it can also be a bit intimidating. It requires a good understanding of the period's architectural style and design elements, as well as your local building regulations and permits. But fear not, dear renovator! If you're planning to renovate your period home, here are six key things to think about before you dive in.
1. Research the Style
Before you start anything, it's important to work out what period your home is from. Do some research so you know the architectural style and relevant design elements. Common examples in Australia are: Colonial, Federation/Edwardian, Californian Bungalow, Art Deco, Post-war, Mid Century Modern. Understanding the key features of the period style can help you make better decisions about what to keep and what to change.
2. Keep it Old School
One of the joys of living in a period home is the abundance of original details – these are the character! From cornices and ceiling roses to archways and picture rails, these details add depth and soul to your home. They also hold lots of value for potential buyers, so keep them intact as much as possible.
3. Replace vs Restore
However, you don't want your home to feel outdated or old fashioned. To keep things fresh, consider ways to update and refurbish historical details. For example, you might keep an old fireplace but replace the broken tiles in the hearth. Painting the fireplace surround or adding a timber or stone mantle can also add a contemporary touch.
4. Blending Old and New
If you're adding a new section to your home, make sure you think about how to blend the old parts of the house with the new. While it's okay to have a clear distinction between the two, you'll want to create a transition that respects the charm and heritage of your existing home.
5. Think About Energy Efficiency
Period homes can be an energy drain due to their age and design. They are often drafty, poorly insulated, with single glazed windows. Renovating means you have a chance to fix some of these things, to improve energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and also save you money on energy bills. Some other things to think about installing: efficient heating and cooling systems, new awnings for better shading, and solar panels.
6. Plan for Future Maintenance
While there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free house, period homes can need a bit more TLC to keep them in good condition. When renovating, use higher-quality materials that need less frequent upkeep. For example, a quartz benchtop will be much tougher than a timber one, and paving instead of decking an outdoor area, means you avoid having to regularly sand and stain.
Period homes are wonderful! With their gorgeous traditional features, they offer a wealth of character and charm, so keep as many of these details as possible. You can create a functional and comfortable space that suits modern life, while still enjoying the traditional beauty of your home.