Are Modern Extensions Suitable For Period Style Homes
CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

Are Modern Extensions Suitable For Period Style Homes

Designing a home extension is an exciting venture especially when you are dealing with a period home. Trying to make the old and the new work seamlessly is possible but it takes a lot of thought, planning and an expert eye.

Modern extensions can work well with the classic period look. The modern addition can complement or contrast the original building and can enhance and elevate the overall look and functionality of the property.

However, it takes a lot of planning and design consultation with professionals to make it work. And when it does, you do not just end up with a uniquely beautiful home, you will also increase the monetary value of your property.

Modern extensions are practical and will bring your period home up to date. It can work as long as you pay attention to the following:

  • It does not alter the historical features of the period home that makes it classically beautiful.
  • It can be executed seamlessly and will work cohesively with the original building.
  • It is strategically located.
  • It will add additional living space.
  • It will add functionality and value to the property.
  • It will not damage the structural integrity of the original building.
  • The shape, scale, and proportions of the period home is kept intact.

When thought through carefully, a modern extension can work beautifully alongside the existing building. A cohesive look can be achieved when the materials and the style are planned thoroughly.

Both the practicalities and aesthetics must be considered.

Are Modern Extensions Suitable For Period Style Homes

Defined Difference

Modern extensions are suitable for period homes if you set a clear distinction between the original and the modern.

It is better to distinguish the modern extension and make it stand out from the original building, however, it needs to blend in seamlessly. If you can achieve this, the original period home can retain its design integrity. 

Pay Homage To The Old

Paying reverence to the original home will help achieve a cohesive look and a good balance between the old and the new.

For example, you can use comparable materials in contrasting colour or aligning roof pitches or use zinc cladding to mirror lead roof flashings.

The secret is to identify the important historic features of the period home so you can enhance and complement it with the new addition, not challenge it.

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Find A Link

Finding an unobtrusive link between the original building the adjoining room is a good way to execute the extension. For example, you can leave old brick walls exposed as you build the extension.

This can make a clear break between the two, creating a stark contrast at the same time, still linking the two together. Imagine the beautiful contrast between the old stonework and modern plastered walls!

Focus On The Practicalities

The number one consideration is foundation support. The extension must be self-supporting so it will not add any structural strain to the original house. Period home foundations are not future proof. 

The best thing about living in a period home is its character, charm, and history. When renovating or building an extension, you want to keep these intact. These are the things that make your period home a classic and unique.

Your modern additions should not diminish or downplay these characteristics. It should elevate and complement the home instead.

Unlike modern homes, modern extensions need careful planning and research to make a modern extension suitable for a period home.

In fact, it is highly recommended that you get professional services to make sure your project is executed in the best possible way. 

You need delicate hands and design expertise to handle a period home renovation. You also need excellent builders to make sure the original building and the new additions are structurally sound. 

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Final Thoughts

At Period Designs & Extensions, will not only guide and assist you from design planning, but we also offer a ten-year structural guarantee on all our builds and a three month maintenance period after completion of every project.

Our team will be there for you even after the work is done because we are dedicated to helping you achieve your design goals and are not satisfied until our customers are satisfied.

Are you planning to renovate your home? At Period Extensions & Designs, we have adjusted the way we do business amid the COVID-19 crisis so we can keep you safe while continuing to serve and make your design and renovation goals come true. 

Whether you need help with the design or the actual renovation itself, please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.

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