Over the years, Period Property homes have been updated and altered to align with contemporary tastes. If your Period Property home has lost its original charm, you might consider restoring it to highlight its historic grandeur.
The first thing to understand when restoring a Period Property house is that there are various distinct types of Period Property architecture. While they share common features, it's important to research the specific style of your home to ensure an accurate restoration. Your main challenges may stem from renovations by previous owners during the 1960s and ’70s, who often did not value the original Period Property aesthetics. Many of the ornate details, such as ceiling roses, were removed during this period, so finding replacement pieces might be one of your biggest tasks.
A good starting point is to examine the plasterwork.
Period Property homes heavily featured cornicing, mouldings, and ceiling roses, which are highly sought after by many Period Property homeowners. These elements may have missing pieces or be covered in layers of paint. By stripping away the paint, removing any mould, and having any missing sections professionally recast, you can restore these intricate Period Property details.
Next, turn your attention to the windows, often referred to as the eyes of the house. Period Property homes typically had sash windows, which slide up and down rather than opening on a hinge. Original sash windows may be poorly insulated or loose, causing them to rattle. Numerous specialists can help repair, insulate, or replace old sash windows, allowing you to preserve this beautiful feature without sacrificing insulation.
Period Property rooms generally had fireplaces, which may have been covered or removed by previous occupants who preferred central heating. To restore a 19th-century house authentically, consider reopening these fireplaces, even if you use them solely for decorative purposes.
If your Period Property house has carpeting, uncovering the original flooring can significantly enhance the home's authentic feel. Repairing wooden floorboards and replacing missing or damaged tiles can revive the original charm. Most Period Property houses had pine floorboards, with only wealthier homes featuring hardwood floors. Originally, pine floors were stained mahogany to appear more luxurious, but today, lighter wood tones are often preferred.
While you might not want to recreate a fully Period Property kitchen, incorporating design elements that evoke a 19th-century atmosphere while maintaining modern conveniences is possible. Simple Period Property styling ideas include installing a Belfast sink or choosing freestanding units over fitted kitchens.
Similarly, modern bathrooms have improved since the Period Property era, but a freestanding rolltop bath can instantly create an era-appropriate ambiance. Additional details that can help you achieve an authentic look include adding dado rails and picture rails, using shapely skirting boards, and selecting period-appropriate wallpaper.
But what if your property requires a complete renovation? Continue reading to find out how to proceed.