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Month: August 2019

white house with picket fence
CategoriesPeriod Homes

5 Colour Schemes to Consider for Your Period Home

By Period Extensions Team,

As we’ve already discussed in our longer guides to period home renovation, colour is essential. If you want to keep the charm of a period property, you should never go over the top with intense shades and hues.

With that considered, what are some of the best colour schemes to use for typical period properties? Some period homes are more practical than they are visually stunning. Therefore, it makes sense to give aesthetics a helping hand. Here are some ideas to get started with.

white house with picket fence

Whites and Greys

Going for whites and greys is a safe option. These are the most neutral shades, and what’s more, they can help to bring out a lot in a property. If you aim to stay loyal to a period design, you may wish to draw attention to features with simple, neutral touches.

Black and Dark Colours

It may seem a bit daring to use dark colours in period homes. However, these shades can help add to the sophistication and depth of your property. When used sparingly, darker shades can bring out some of the brighter tones in fixtures and fittings, too. It’s a great choice if you don’t want to be bold with your home design.

Pleasing Blues

Blue is one of the most popular colour choices for properties. However, you should be careful about the shade and depth you opt for. Too bold, and it will clash with furniture and other features. Too mild, and it won’t leave any impact at all.

Discuss your options with an expert in period home renovation. They will help you find shades of blue which are pleasant, complementary, and which won’t distract attention.

Going Green

Green is a brilliantly versatile colour. That is, of course, when used in the right way. Bold, deep greens can help to evoke feelings of nature. However, too sharp a green can clash with even the most neutral of fittings.

Green isn’t always going to fit in well with practical period homes. However, it may help them stand out for the better. As with blue, think about using muted shades. Don’t leap headfirst into imposing, striking greens unless the period demands it. Again, an expert will help you pick the right tone.

Browns and Coppers

Brown is a colour which has plenty of great uses. It evokes natural images, again, which will work well with modern upgrades to period homes. It is also the colour of many metals. That means you can complement metal touches in your home with copper colours, moving into orange and terracotta as you wish.

Picking Your Palette

Ultimately, the colour scheme you choose will depend on the period of your home. It’s time to think about period home colour schemes which stand out in a good way. However, it is also worthwhile honouring your existing features and fittings.

Don’t go into period home renovation alone. Let our experts lead the way for you with brilliant colour schemes and ideas. Call us today on 03 9882 5255 to learn more.

buckets of paint
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

From Tired to Terrific: Practical Period Home Exterior Renovation

By Period Extensions Team,

Many period homes in Australia were built to serve a purpose and this was all well and good for the time; however, this has left many properties looking a little too similar to one another. Therefore, many Australians are taking the chance to renovate their traditional properties completely. But how can you do this without spoiling the original charm?

It makes sense to want to bring an old property up to code. You may have found a simple period property which has fallen on hard times. Sprucing up a period home in need of a little TLC can be very rewarding, but when it comes to making the outside of a purely ‘practical’ home stand out, where do you start? We’ve already covered a few points in some of our other guides, so now let’s focus on the nitty-gritty.

Paint is Popular

buckets of paintOne of the easiest ways to bring an older property back to life is to repaint it completely. A period home renovation expert will be able to show you how. While it’s tempting to completely re-paint the exterior of your home in an allowed colour, you’re going to need to think carefully. Are you using a colour which stands out in the wrong way? Are you honouring the original look and design of the property?

We generally advise that you consider mild, muted colours, even for exteriors. An expert in period home extension and design will help you pick your palette and stay within local council rules. There are lots of ways you can recolour your property without turning it into an eyesore!

Do Your Homework

One of the best ways to revive a period home is to be true to its intentions. Yes, a practical home may not look the prettiest, but there is such a thing as over-modernising. Working with a renovations and design team, be sure to emulate design choices from your property’s given period. Whether this means uncovering flourishes or creating new touches, it makes sense to research.

Adding unique, faithful design touches to a period property will help it to stand out from the crowd. However, do make sure you have permission from your local authority. It’s also worth consulting with neighbours, too!

Rethink Your Front Garden

As we’ve explored elsewhere, gardens can do a lot. A well-cared-for lawn or yard can help to turn a tired property into a stunning, vibrant home. Again, consider some of the traditional styles and choices made by designers based in your specific period, and ask for help from landscapers.

Build lush flowerbeds and take on some creative topiary. Without going overboard, you should be able to create some truly stunning greenery. The aim here is to complement as well as to stand out.

If you’d like to know more about renovating a classic home to modern standards, our design and build team can help. Take a look at our guides on renovation, or call us on 03 9882 5255 for more details when you need them.

old style couch
CategoriesInterior Design

What You Should Know About Mixing Modern and Traditional Furniture

By Period Extensions Team,

A lot of people think renovating a period home comes with the expectation that everything from the colour palette to the furniture must be kept within the era in order to look authentic. But as there are so many modern comforts that we have gotten so used to, it’s hard to say goodbye to them in a period home.

Aside from this, purchasing traditional antique furniture can be extremely expensive, so it’s completely understandable that you’ll want to opt for some modern pieces that are kinder on the pocket. Before you start your furniture shopping spree, we wanted to share with you a few pointers to keep in mind.

Don’t take away from the period home aesthetic

After renovating your period home, using only modern furniture could be a mistake, and will only mean that the hard work, time and money you have put in has gone to waste. If you do want to have some modern comforts, make sure that you include some traditional pieces as well that tie in with your interior design.

Keep an eye on the balance

When mixing modern and traditional furniture, you’ll want to ensure that there is a good balance throughout the house. Rather than some rooms being only modern or only traditional, keep a mix of the two in every room so that your style is consistent.

Visitors should be drawn to traditional rather than modern pieces

Every room has a furniture centrepiece, and it’s a good idea to keep that piece traditional so that people are drawn to it when they first walk into a room and can appreciate the period design.

Choosing the bed for your bedroom should be in line with the appropriate era; e.g. a four-poster bed in a Georgian home, or a cast-iron bed in a Victorian home. Alternatively, you can use smaller modern pieces in your living areas such as coffee or side tables.

old style couch

Look for new furniture with a vintage design

This is a great tip for those that are working to a budget and who find that antique furniture is well beyond their means. There are many furniture designers that make replica antique pieces which look very similar to traditional furniture, but at a better price. Do some research on common furniture from the era of your home and you’ll no doubt be able to track down brand new furniture from an Australian boutique designer.

Choose furniture made from the same materials

Often a great way to get away with mixing modern and traditional furniture is by selecting pieces made from the same wood. Found a beautiful antique oak bed frame? Scout for other oak furniture that can tie in together.

Need a hand with your period home renovation?

Our design and build team at Period Extensions & Designs are experts in what we do and would be delighted to work with you on your renovation. We’ve worked on many exciting projects and understand exactly what needs to be done to turn your period home dreams into a reality. Call us on 03 9882 5255 and we’ll happily meet with you to discuss your visions.

white bathtub
CategoriesInterior Design

Designing a Period Bathroom: 5 Classic Features

By Period Extensions Team,

Modern Australian bathrooms are generally not much to get excited about. Most people stick with simple clutter-free designs with modern amenities that make our spaces as convenient as possible. But when you get to design a period bathroom, the door opens to a whole new world of fun and interesting features. We’ve pulled together a list of five of the most classic features that you will find in period bathrooms, and while all may not be appropriate for the particular era that you renovating for, they will certainly give you something to think about.

1. A freestanding bathtub

Built-in tubs only became popular in modern bathrooms in the mid to late 20th century, so whatever era you are trying to achieve, a freestanding tub should be the centrepiece of the room. Clawfoot tubs were extremely popular from the mid-1800s through to the 1920s, with vintage models made of almost all cast iron. Today you can purchase enamelled cast-iron tubs and place either jutting out from one wall or exactly in the middle of the room if your plumbing allows.

white bathtub

2. Antique wooden furniture

Wooden furniture is a good choice for Georgian bathrooms. You can find pieces such as dressers or sideboards in antique shops and use them as vanity units or extra storage space. If the top of the furniture is looking a little worse for wear, you can add a layer of marble for a fresh look. If you’re going for an Edwardian finish, you can also craft basins from large wooden standalone furniture.

3. Tiles

Tiles can be used for a few types of period homes thanks to the diverse range of sizes and colours. Edwardian bathrooms can have black and white large square tiles on the floor with decorative tiles on the walls, while large softly toned porcelain tiles look great in Art Deco bathrooms.

4. A pedestal sink

Pedestal sinks not only are an excellent period design feature, but they also work extremely well in smaller bathrooms or when your budget is tight. They can make your room appear larger, and there are different varieties to choose from.

5. Stained glass windows

After being popular in the medieval period, it wasn’t until the mid-19th century that stained-glass windows made a comeback, with many Art Nouveau homes including this feature. Using stained glass is a wonderful way to let extra light into your bathroom while keeping an element of privacy from the world outside.

Planning a period home renovation?

For optimum results, we highly recommend working with period home renovation experts rather than tackling the project yourself. Our team at Period Extensions & Designs can help make your dreams a reality, so feel free to contact us to see just how we can make things happen.

greenhouse inside front yard
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

7 Creative Ways to Make a Typical Period Home Stand Out

By Period Extensions Team,

Let’s be clear, there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ period home, so for this guide, we are referring to those properties which have traditionally served a practical purpose. We are relating to homes which have focused on everyday practicality as opposed to outward aesthetics.

With the dawn of period home renovation, more and more people have gotten interested in finding out how to make one of these homes standout. In this quick guide, we’ll explore a few of the ways you can transform a typical, practical home unit into a unique, eye-catching property. As always, do consult renovation experts before you get started.

Think About Finishing

Lots of typical homes from a certain period will have the same exterior finishes and paint. Therefore, if you want to make your property stand out from the crowd, you should choose a completely different finish. Why not think about cladding or muted colours in line with the period style? As always, you’ll need to check with your local council in case there are heritage or period style colour scheme restrictions.

greenhouse inside front yard

Be Creative With Gardening

Your garden is always going to be one of the first things people notice about your property. Why not make it stand out from the pack by getting creative? Research the time period, and you could install unique topiary, modern borders and even popular plants of the period.

Switch Out the Glass

Typical, practical homes generally have very basic glazing. Therefore, to be able to keep in the heat, you’re probably going to want to upgrade your windows and doors. Don’t be afraid to look at patterned glass, either and of course, beautiful lead lighting where you are able to do so. Providing it falls in with the existing period style, this will help you stand out in a good way.

Add an Extension

Many period home renovations experts will suggest you add additional rooms on to modernise your space. It’s a practical upgrade, but when designed and installed the right way, it’ll help you stand out and create a stunning new home feel.

Get Artistic

To really jazz up a practical property, it’s time to think about art. Don’t shy away from using flourishes and artistic touches both inside and outside your home. Install art in the garden, and be creative with your interior design, too.

Ask for Opinions

The most creative way to upgrade a practical home is to ask others’ opinions. Consult a period home expert, a design team. Those in similar properties may care about what you do.

You should always be prepared to consult period design and renovation experts before you get started. Call our team today on 03 9882 5255 for more details on how we can help.

bedroom with wood ceiling
CategoriesInterior Design

How to Dress a Period Bedroom

By Period Extensions Team,

Your bedroom is the one place in your house where you can truly relax and feel most comfortable. But while there are plenty of period design ideas for your living areas or bathrooms, a lot of people get stuck on just how to dress their bedroom when they only have a small square or rectangular space to work with.

In this post we are going to take a look at some ways you can dress your bedroom in line with particular period designs.

bedroom with wood ceiling

Georgian era

This era was all about simplicity, so look for plain or soft floral fabrics to use to keep things elegant, with long heavy curtains over your windows.  A bedroom bench can be placed at the end of the bed, and go hunting for some antique wooden furniture with cabriole legs and slipper feet. Lighting should be soft, and use a large rug over your beautifully finished wooden floors.

Victorian era

A cast-iron or brass bed should be your starting point for your Victorian bedroom with numerous pillows and material adorning it. Furniture should be made from solid wood such as walnut, oak or mahogany, with soft rugs on the floor. When choosing curtains, you’ll want to look for velvet or delicate florals, and your walls should feature older-style paintings of animals or children.

If you want to add some accessories to complete your look, consider candlesticks, lamps or brass pottery to place on tables or chests of drawers.

Art Nouveau era

The Art Nouveau era was all about originality, lavishness and beauty inspired by nature, and you can definitely have a lot of fun with dressing an Art Nouveau bedroom.

The furniture style of this period was sweeping and feminine, so choosing a solid wood bed with interesting curved lines will certainly make an eye-catching centrepiece. Printed and woven fabrics featuring vines or flowers were common, and you can use these either in upholstery for your bed, on armchairs, in curtains or rugs. You could use wallpaper with bold or muted palettes, and either cover all walls or have just one accent wall. You can also cover your walls with printed artwork pieces that you find at antique shops or art fairs, or you can even replicate prints yourself.

Need a hand with your period home renovations?

If your renovating a period home, it’s highly recommended to use the services of a professional design and build team that understand all the finer details and can manage the process effectively. At Period Extensions & Designs, we live and breathe period homes, and our team has a wealth of experience behind them. We’d love to chat about your project and see how we can help, so give us a call on 03 9882 5255 to set up a time for us to meet.

home interior with white walls
CategoriesInterior Design

Painting Your Period Home: A Guide to Colour Schemes

By Period Extensions Team,

Period home colour schemes will always vary. That’s because no two period properties are ever quite the same. However, colour choice makes a significant impact on how your interiors and exteriors will look in the long run. What’s more, the right colours can help to honour a property’s character, while modernising it all the same.

home interior with white walls

In this quick guide, we’ll take a look at what you can expect from period home colour schemes. While we won’t go into detail on each type of period home in this piece, we will at least give you a broad overview of the importance of paint.

Go For Tradition

When choosing the right colour scheme for your property, think about the shades and hues popular to the period. A period home renovations expert will be able to share ideas with you. While brighter colours may be a hallmark of mid-20th-century housing, pre-20th may look better with muted shades.

You should look to complement your property with colour. It’s tempting to splash your favourite shades over your project. However, to keep authenticity, try and stick to the traditional palette. You can do this and still modernise the look of your home.

Go Neutral

Along the same lines, don’t be too afraid to pick neutral colours. Anyone well-versed in period extensions and design will tell you that pure whites and greys can be very powerful. What’s more, they help to create a broader sense of space.

In period properties which may feel cramped or tight, this is a big plus. Don’t be too tempted to go for bright, bold colours. It’s fine to splash some personality around; however, do consult a period design expert first. They will help you to define your palette.

Be Sparing

The urge to brighten up an old property with a new colour can sometimes be very strong. Our best advice to give in this regard is to try and exercise restraint! Colour is fantastic as it can be used to enhance space or even create greater intimacy. However, there is a risk that you may end up completely overdoing things.

Only ever use colour that is appropriate to the look of your property, and use it where it needs it the most. Unsure where this might be? Consult a design expert and never start splashing colour and paint around until you have an expert opinion.

Be Creative

It may be easy to think this guide has warned you off going too creative with colour. However, we believe a balanced amount of creative paint goes a long way. It’s all going to depend on the balance you want to strike between traditional and modern.

Want to modernise a property completely? You can afford to be more creative. Want to stick to the old traditions? Think creatively about how to emulate period colour schemes and touches.

Above all, always make sure you have a period renovations expert by your side. Call us on 03 9882 5255 to learn more.

living room with natural light and white walls
CategoriesInterior Design

7 Interior Design Tips for Your Period Home

By Period Extensions Team,

While every period home is going to be different, there are a few rules which apply to all. Our complete guide to blending traditional and modern design will give you the full lowdown. However, in this post, we’re going to look at a few specific ideas. These are tips and tricks you can put to use with your period home design team right away! Let’s take a look at some period home interior design tips which genuinely work.

living room with natural light and white walls

1. Go Open-Plan

One of the best period home interior design tips is to open up your rooms. Period homes are, by design, extremely practical. Our lives are more fluid these days! Work with professionals to blend rooms, so you can welcome open spaces.

2. Paint

There’s no surprise that it is amazing what a fresh coat of paint does to any home. Struggling to pick the right colour scheme? Ask a period home renovator to help put you on a clear path to a stunning design.

3. Lighting

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with lighting is to over-modernise. Period homes fitted with scores of LEDs, for example, don’t always look right. As we explain in our full guide, of course focus on maximising natural light.

4. Use Natural Materials

Regardless of the period your property was built in; natural material can help to add a rustic charm. Natural wood and textiles can help to take your property back to another time.

5. Be Subtle with Colour

We talk about colour subtlety elsewhere. However, it bears noting that you shouldn’t charge into over-painting a period home in bold colours. Lead with subtle, neutral touches, and accentuate with brighter tones if you wish.

6. Think About Regional Differences

If you’re going to be utterly loyal to your period renovation, consider the differences in design from area to area. What may not be typical in Melbourne might be expected in Perth. Always ask an expert for advice!

7. Listen to Others and Engage a Professional

This is more of a general tip than a practical idea. Don’t just listen to your head or even your heart. Do some research, and be willing to listen to what experts have to say. Just because an idea looks good on paper, doesn’t mean it will always work in practice.

Call an expert today for more details on getting started with period home renovation. Call 03 9882 5255 or talk to us online.

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