What You Need to Know About Period Homes

It’s time for a period property history lesson. When architects and home developers talk about period homes, they are mainly referring to properties inspired by various historical eras, some going back centuries.

To understand some of the history surrounding period property, we have to look at some of the specific styles which are being mimicked to this day. What can you expect, for example, from a property designed after the Art Deco movement?

Australian period home design is greatly influenced by English and American history, as you’ll see. That is no bad thing. If anything, some of the most romantic and striking aesthetics arose from centuries of British and US architecture. Let’s take a look at some of Australia’s most common period home pursuits.

Georgian and Regency (Pre 1840)

Regency and Georgian period homes are among the oldest in Australia. Inspired by classical architecture and Italian style, these homes are notable for their absolute symmetry. There is simple elegance to a house of this period. Regency properties are perhaps a little more outlandish than their Georgian peers. However, these properties are generally noted for being very straightforward with multi-paned windows to the front.

Victorian Era (1840 – 1875)

Homes in Australia copying Victorian building standards can be split into two categories. Homes in this first period focus more on the Gothic. Gothic buildings are steeply pointed and symmetrical, often with lancet windows and intricate facades. Iron plays a big part in these buildings, too, both in the roofing and in the façades.

Victorian Era (1875 – 1895)

Other Australian period homes copy the late Victorian era. These homes are much more lavish and can be very exaggerated in terms of decoration. Cast iron is still very much a feature here. However, intensive brickwork, mosaic patterns and showy styles are all likely to stand out more. Ornamental flourishes are always key here.

Art Nouveau (1895 – 1915)

Heading into the early 20th century, art nouveau homes are easily spotted across Australia to this day. While these home designs are often stylised, they have an organic feel to them. Asymmetrical lines are used in façade design, and the natural world is commonly an inspiration.

Federation Edwardian (1900 – 1915)

Australian homes aping the Federation Edwardian style are also known as ‘pre-war’ looks. These homes are often built from red brick and are seen as contemporary twists on the old Edwardian standards set around 1900-1910. Corrugated iron is again a feature, as is a mix of orange creativity and art nouveau simplicity.

Californian Bungalow (1920 – 1930)

These homes are based on the cheaper, post-war American homes that popped up after 1918. They were quick and affordable to build. Therefore, there’s a humble simplicity which is extremely attractive to many period homeowners. Low pitched roofing, thick columns, and your simple brick and stone all went into these designs. Big, brassy, and straightforward.

Art Deco (1930 – 1950)

The Art Deco movement was massively influential in all sorts of ways. There are even plenty of Australian homes still taking on the classic style. Geometric styles, decorative flourishes and a focus on ‘solid’ aesthetics are relatively common to this period. Art Deco homes are obvious for their streamlined appearances, big, solid constructions and often imposing looks. Strong lines and geometric shapes, as always, are significant indicators of an Art Deco home.

Always Insulate

It’s a good idea to keep warm. If you are buying genuine period property, you’re going to need to insulate. Old-style homes and those dating back decades will likely need to be upgraded. Therefore, you’re going to need to consider how much money to invest in insulating your inner walls with dry lining. Alternatively, you could work to apply external insulation and weatherproof as you go. Modern glazing is also recommended.

Generally, interior insulation may not work as well as exterior coverage. Therefore, it is worth considering your needs and, of course, your budget. You could, of course, consider a fireplace!

Work with a Specialist Team

While plenty of architects and building experts will be happy to support you as much as possible, you will always get the best possible insight into how to develop a modern home with period aesthetics. There is a certain balance to getting modern living acquainted with a period look. You’re going to need to think carefully about the mod cons you’ll need and the period touches you’ll want to run alongside.

Why not discuss your ideal design with a specialist period architect or designer? You’ll be able to work out a practical design that looks the part. While it’s tempting to go all-out with period style, certain features and functions won’t translate to the modern age. You can, however, capture as much style from your favourite era as possible.