Period Extensions & Design > Articles by: Period Extensions Team

Author: Period Extensions Team

CategoriesInterior Design

The Dangers of DIY Interior Design

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]So you’re renovating your home and you’ve just bought ‘the perfect piece’. A fabulous lamp for that dark little corner, a gorgeous throw rug with matching cushions you found online for your living room renovation or maybe a gorgeous corner table, ideal for your bedroom makeover.

There’s a good chance, however, that ‘perfect piece’ was too small, too big or actually, entirely the wrong colour – and now it’s too late to take it back.

Interior design is not as easy as it looks – and much more important than you think. Follow these six DIY interior design tips and you’ll be styling up the perfect room in no time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#1 START WITH THE BASICS – A SIMPLE TAPE MEASURE

There is nothing more heartbreaking than bringing your shiny new purchase into your home, only to realise that it is simply too big to fit, or too small to make an impact.
Impulse buying can also be a very expensive mistake. Imagine buying a couch for your living room renovation that doesn’t even fit through the door! Always measure first. In fact, measure twice!![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3189″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#2 SHOP WITH A PLAN

As the saying goes, “a place for everything, and everything in its place.” Great interior design does not happen by accident. Before you hit the shops, spend some time looking carefully for what you need for your renovation. Take photos, use magazine clippings, draw some sketches – whatever makes the planning process easier for you.

Shopping without a plan leads to unnecessary clutter. When you apply careful planning and a minimalist approach, clutter will be a thing of the past.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3190″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#3 BEWARE THE ‘IMPULSE BUY’.

Never buy on the spot. Remember, you have to live with the items you buy. Also, shop around for the right price. Impulse interior design is a waste of money. There’s nothing worse than spending more than you need![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3191″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#4 SCALE IS EVERYTHING

It takes a talented eye to decorate a room with impeccable scale. The secret to scale in interior renovation is a mixture of different shapes, heights and sizes that fit together seamlessly – not too big, not too small. You never want everything in a room to be at the same level or the same size.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3192″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#5 TESTING – 1, 2, 3

Choosing paint colours can be a minefield. Take advantage of sample pot sizes and take the time to patch test before you begin on your home improvement. Once you’ve begun, re-painting can be a painful process. Also, if you can, go for a feature wall. The use of a bold contrast colour can really bring your house alteration to life.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3193″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

#6 LIGHT IT UP

Lighting is often underestimated in interior design. Natural light is the best way to show off furniture and soft furnishings but at night, floor lamps add mood and ambience. Do some research about the use of LED lighting, too – new technology now allows a whole new range of light control.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3194″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_column_text]The professional design team at Period Extensions is passionate about creating environments to meet your lifestyle needs, while respecting the rich history and architecture of your home.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesDesign Inspiration

From a Dull Facade, this Camberwell Home was Returned to Glory Days

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]We start our design process by first talking to the client about what they want to achieve from the renovation & extension and then familiarising ourselves with the architectural history of the property. Only then do we undertake to design a vision for their home. And then, in collaboration with our Drafting Department, we produce a customised design that considers the client’s needs and respects the architectural history of their home.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]

FROM AN OLD STUDENT ACCOMMODATION TO A MODERN HOME

This home, which is located in the leafy suburb of Camberwell, was rented out for student accommodation. It was a tired old property in need of modernising, with the team at Period Extensions perfect for the task. The original house had large wonderful rooms that could certainly be enhanced, and with our team’s design ideas, the owners of this home could enjoy it for years to come.

This house had been neglected. There were sloping floors, rotten window frames, a leaking roof and cracking plaster. The house required major renovations as well an extension to accommodate the needs of the family. The owners were very much part of the journey to renovate and extend this house. Like our design team, they saw past the neglect to the potential of the house.

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EXTENSION INTO LIGHT-FILLED LIVING AREAS

The new owners wanted an extension of a spacious, beautiful and functional home with light-filled family and living areas as well as an outdoor entertaining area that could be used despite Melbourne’s weather.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3182″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3183″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

FUNCTIONAL AND LUXURY BATHROOM DESIGN

The bathrooms are aesthetically pleasing and more importantly functional, modern, and luxurious. The grey stone tiles provide a stunning backdrop to the bespoke white cabinetry, and the oversized wall mirror frames the double vanity to perfection. Lastly, the free standing bathtub completes the room in this room extension.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

INCREASED PROPERTY VALUE FROM OUTSTANDING RENOVATION RESULTS

The team at Period Extensions pride ourselves on designing and building extensions that not only meets the client’s brief but surpasses their expectations. The success of this renovation project can be judged on the fact that when the owners of the property saw the end result, they were so overwhelmed with the result. They decided to capitalise on the value added by  the work of Period Extensions, they immediately put the property on the market and achieved an outstanding result.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3184″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesDesign Inspiration

Heritage meets modern design in Malvern East renovation

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Every home renovation is unique, but what we love most about our work is the chance to work hand-in-hand with clients to make their vision a reality.

In this stunning extension in Malvern East, our client took the unusual step of deciding to renovate their new home immediately after purchase.

While they were initially attracted to the house because of its traditional architectural features, their main goal was to ensure that their new home would also meet the demands of their lifestyle needs.

Many homeowners debate for months, sometimes years, on what they require from a renovation. Decisions are driven by changes in lifestyle, the need for a larger living space or simply because areas of the house are in need of major repair. In most instances, our clients have lived in their home for some time and use their experience to identify what is missing.

Whilst the new home owners were delighted with the purchase of this property and excited about the prospect of living there, they chose to wait a little bit longer before moving in to a newly renovated home.

This was a well-considered and carefully conceived plan. In their previous home, living space was limited and the bathroom and laundry were far too small. When presented with a brand new space to work with, our clients had very clear ideas on what was needed for their extension.

Our client’s specific requirements of their home renovation included the addition of an en-suite to the main bedroom, a family bathroom, a European-style laundry, increased storage and an open-plan living area. An alfresco area that seamlessly connected to the backyard was also on the wish list.

Our goal with every period extension is to keep the existing character of the home intact, while seamlessly weaving in the requirements of our client. After the renovation project is complete, we want our clients to walk in and see exactly what they envisaged.

As part of this home renovation, retaining the heritage overlay was important and challenging. The existing brick chimney was also to be preserved, requiring significant engineering to support its structure in the newly designed space.

The size of the site also presented challenges, as the design needed to be compact enough to fit
into the space, yet still meet the client brief.

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HEXAGONAL BATHROOM TILES RENOVATION

The en-suite to the main bedroom features black, grey and white hexagonal tessellated floor tiles, a black granite bench top and a modern shower with a glass screen. The functional and spacious family bathroom was fitted with a striking black granite bench top, modern shower with glass screens and a white bathtub.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3175″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3176″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

SMART SPACE RENOVATION SOLUTIONS

Out of site but certainly not out of mind, the European-style laundry, featuring state-of-the-art appliances, meets the client brief exactly and saves valuable space. Space saving was a major theme throughout the extension with the inclusion of new storage solutions, cleverly located to blend in and ‘disappear’ into the home.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

MOROCCAN STYLE KITCHEN EXTENSION

The kitchen extension is a joy to behold with a large, white island bench top and trendy Moroccan-style tile detailing on the splashback. Regular entertaining is a must for our client and they were delighted with the completed renovation were looking forward to hosting their first dinner party.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

COMBINING SPACES INTO A VERSATILE ONE

Finally, an open-plan living area with bifold doors, opening onto a timber deck seamlessly connecting the interior to the light and airy entertaining area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3177″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3178″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

TRADITIONAL MEETS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

Now as we walk through this light-filled home, there is a strong sense of connection between heritage and modern. Each space is fluid and functional and flows naturally into the next. The interior has been designed with clever use of fittings and fixtures that reflect the architectural traditions of this stunning home, while still presenting a contemporary feel throughout.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesHome Renovation

Three Reasons Why You Need A Wine Cellar Renovation

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]When planning your home renovation, don’t forget a wine cellar renovation as well. Having your own wine room is an investment in your home’s value and your own lifestyle.

Are you giving your wine collection the appreciation it deserves? You can instantly recognise the difference between a Mornington Pinot Noir and a Beechworth Shiraz and your collection of vintages is becoming quite impressive but you still store your bottles in a boring old wine rack.

Isn’t it time to commit to being the connoisseur you really are and install your very own home wine cellar?

Having your own wine room is an investment in your home, your wine collection and your lifestyle and here’s why it should be a part of your next home renovation or extension.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

PRESERVATION

Wine is quite temperamental and sensitive to the conditions it’s stored in. It’s for this reason that the best wine rooms are climate controlled.

Wine needs to be stored at a cool and constant temperature to avoid them cooking or the moisture in the corks drying out. Wine is also sensitive to wild fluctuations in temperature so the cold winters and scorching summers we get here in Melbourne can really put your collection at risk.

Regulating the humidity where your collection is stored is just as important as controlling the temperature. Humidity under 50% can dry out your corks but humidity over 80% will promote the growth of mould.

UV rays can prematurely age your wines which is why cellars and windowless rooms are perfect for storing your collection. You’ll even find that the best wine rooms use incandescent bulbs to light the room as they don’t emit UV rays like regular household lights.

Wines don’t like being shaken or disturbed. The fear is that unnecessary vibrations can prematurely start the chemical reactions in the bottles before they are opened. Serious collectors make sure their cellars are solid and don’t allow for bottles to move in their racks.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3161″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.periodextensions.com.au/project/brighton-east/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-40t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3162″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

ORGANISATION IN YOUR RENOVATION

You’ll find the best stocked wine rooms have their bottled ordered by specific bottle size, bottle shape, varietal and year. Having a meticulously organised wine room is essential to the connoisseur’s experience. The collectors who do this properly, know exactly what’s in their cellar and even have a planned ‘drink by date’ for every bottle they own. They update every time they get a new box and they rotate the collection every year. A disorganised collection can mean that special bottles get missed and even forgotten.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

AESTHETIC APPEAL AND INVESTMENT

Wine cellars and rooms aren’t just an extra storage place in your house. They become focal features in your home which just enhance the simple act of having a glass of wine. Even selecting a bottle to open becomes a delight in a well organised room. The best wine rooms use the space not just store wine but accentuate the have a feature wall, arch or even an art space.

Upgrading to a room or cellar also has the added advantage of being able to store bulk wine orders. Buying wine in bulk is excellent value but without ample storage space, your favourite wines just stay in a cardboard box.

In addition to aesthetics adding a wine cellar to a house immediately increases its market value. The house is now set it apart from other houses in the street and the suburb.

As a connoisseur, adding a wine cellar to your home is best decision you can make. Talk to us about installing a wine room which suits your needs, compliments your home and showcases your wine collection.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row desctop_pt=”padding-lg-40t”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”3163″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3164″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3165″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3166″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3167″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3168″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3169″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3170″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”3171″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesInterior Design

Why You Should Add A Fireplace To Your Home

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]The cold winter is upon us, and it is time to get cosy around a warm and welcoming fireplace with a good book and a glass of wine. So, should I add a fireplace to my renovation/extensions I hear you ask?

Here are a few ideas to ponder about.

Fireplaces have been an integral part in the design of a period home. Be it Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian.

Even the later designs such as the Californian Bungalow, Hampton’s style and the Minimalist house designs have incorporated the humble fireplace as a feature and focal point of their designs. There are several reasons for this.

FIREPLACES AS ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES

Traditionally, the purpose of the fireplace was simply to provide warmth. But with the passing of time, they soon became an architectural feature as the period houses were renovated and restored.

Architects began designing houses with fireplaces as the focal point of living and dining rooms. These fireplaces were not only large open fires but gas log fires and even electric fireplaces.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”3147″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]

MODERN RENOVATORS WANT GAS AND ELECTRIC FIREPLACES

Most renovated period properties replace the traditional open fireplaces with electric or gas fireplaces. This is so that the home owner can enjoy the aesthetics of a fire place without the hassle of maintaining an open fire place.

Modern electric and gas fireplaces also provide interior design solutions such as being inset into the wall at any height and can mimic flames using LED flame-effect light technology. Many also come with remote controls, allowing owners to adjust temperature and light settings with the flick of a button.

There are options for those who would prefer a traditionally-styled hearth too. Modern gas and electric fireplaces can come with period features and styles, providing that all-important link to the past. Though the elements are decorative, the overall effect is the same: the fireplace helps to provide a warm and cosy atmosphere.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”3148″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]

FIREPLACES PROVIDE NOSTALGIA AND ROMANCE

There is another reason why people are choosing to keep their homes warm this winter with modern fireplaces: they help provide a sense of nostalgia and romance by emulating many of the cues of traditional fireplaces.

Staring into golden glow of the flames, and being enveloped in the warmth, during these winter months wrap you up with the notion of nostalgia of and romance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row desctop_pt=”padding-lg-30t”][vc_column][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1542162858315-67dd0dd9-14e8-2″ include=”3149,3150,3151,3152,3153,3154,3155″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesInterior Design

Make a Statement with Your Entrance Hallway

By Period Extensions Team,

[vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]First impressions count – an elegant entrance hall will set the tone to your home renovation and extension. It should exude charm and character, and most importantly reflect your personality.

The hallway is the gateway to your home and as such the way you design it will set the scene for the rest of your home. Although the humble hallway is often treated as a thoroughfare which will lead you to the different zones in your house, it should not be neglected. Instead, some simple design elements can be used to make it into a statement.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3132″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

MAKE THE ENTRANCE DOOR A FEATURE

For a period home, make sure the door incorporates some leadlight features. This will also let light in and fill the entrance with warm sunshine. Or for a more modern look, choose an oversized door or paint it with a striking colour. Make a statement![/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”3133″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-40t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

STATEMENT ARTWORK

Lighting is not only essential in your home but it can be made to make a statement in your hallway as well. A beautiful pendant light will transform your hallway from a thoroughfare to a destination in itself. Or you may prefer a piece of artwork to make a statement, be it a sculpture or hanging on the wall.

There are several ways to make your hallway sing. So be creative and let your personality set the tone for the entry to your newly renovated home.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3134″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” desctop_pt=”padding-lg-40t”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”3135″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

USE FURNITURE TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR

An empty hallway is not very welcoming, so fill it with items and furniture that suits your style and personality. Let your guests know what they can expect when they step into your home. Perhaps its family photos on the wall, or somewhere to hang your jackets and put away the shoes. Or something slightly more stylish like an antique hall stand or beautiful marble table, with a stylish vase on top with fresh flowers is simple, yet elegant. Or perhaps a bench seat or chair, or even a beautiful large mirror would add depth and brightness.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesPeriod Home Renovation

Improving your Period Home with an Extension

By Period Extensions Team,

Melbourne is full of lovely period homes in a variety of styles, from Victorian to Edwardian, Inter-War to Queen Anne. Looking at these heritage homes can allow you to envision yourself in the early days of the blossoming city. If you are lucky enough to live in a period home, you will want to take the necessary steps to restore the home so that it maintains its character and place in history.

Many period homes have a lot of memories, but not a lot of space. Extending your home can uncover its true potential and make it the perfect home for your lifestyle and the modern age.

WHY EXTEND YOUR PERIOD HOME?

Extending period homes requires an expert who understands how to manipulate the old foundations and still keep the original or unique character. It is a bit more of a challenge, but the end result is worth it. Like any home extension, there are many reasons why you might benefit from adding onto your current house, such as:

YOU LOVE THE HOUSE, BUT NEED MORE SPACE

You have got a stunning home that is filled with character and classic beauty. However, if it’s too small for your growing family, you may need to consider an extension. The age of your home or its classic style shouldn’t deter you from getting what you want out of a house. Builders who are specialists dealing with old houses will be able to seamless renovate your home.

INCREASE THE RESALE VALUE

Extensions, while costly, will undoubtedly increase your home’s resale value, making it a very good investment. You are surely not the only homeowner in Melbourne to be charmed by a classic Edwardian finish or bold Victorian lattices. These houses, however, elegant and alluring, cannot always stand up to modern standards of living. Many homeowners fall for the classic facades of period houses, but the rest can all be changed to meet modern standards. Where you can’t renovate outwards, second storey extensions are bound to increase the value of your home.

By choosing a builder who has experience maintaining the character of a period home during renovations, you’ll get to keep the authenticity in home design. Add an appealing library or study that flows seamlessly with the Edwardian feel of the place, or perhaps a sunroom with a lounge to make it truly Victorian.

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