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5 Design Trends for Your Period Home

By PeriodExtensions,

As we enter a new year, we’re seeing a host of new styles and trends pop up across home design. While some of these styles may be fleeting fads, there are a number of enduring trends that we believe will stand the test of time. These are the design styles that are perfect for incorporating into a period home renovation or extension.

When renovating a period home, the focus should be on achieving a happy balance of heritage design features and modern elements. This approach allows you to pay homage to your home’s period charm, while achieving a functional design that supports every day living.

Keep reading to learn how you can incorporate five of the top design styles into your period home.

1. Curves and Arches

 

 Soft curves and architectural arches are set to be big in 2024. When used correctly, this style can add a touch of softness to your home, while beautifully framing prominent elements of your design. This trend has been popular on and off over the years, which means many period homes already feature curves and arches that simply need a little love.

Depending on the era of your home, you might look to restore arched hallways or architraves or create rounded walkways between living spaces. You could then incorporate arched windows in a modern extension to tie the style together through the home. Design-wise, you could opt for a curved benchtop in the kitchen, arched mirrors in the bathroom or soft sculpted furniture in the living area.

2. Sustainable Choices

 

Sustainability and circular design practices continue to dominate architecture and design. As this trend evolves, the focus is shifting to conscious selections, waste reduction and quality over price. One way you could choose to apply this trend into a period renovation is by reusing heritage features from your existing home. For example, stained glass windows could be repurposed and moved from a cramped hallway into the bathroom or original timber beams could be restored and turned into a bespoke furniture piece.

Rather than repurposing materials, you might choose to lovingly restore existing elements like wood-panelled kitchen joinery. With a sander and a few coats of paint, you can transform your existing cabinetry while retaining the heritage style of your period kitchen.

3. Biophilic Design

 

Biophilic design, or design that brings the outdoors in, is a great way to create a calming and restorative feel in the home. Whether you’re increasing natural light, adding plants to your indoor living spaces or utilising natural materials like wood or stone, you’ll find biophilic design boosts your mood, sparks creativity and reduces stress.

A vertical garden is one of the best ways to achieve a biophilic home design. Not only does this add an eye-catching splash of colour, it’s a great way to improve air quality and even reduce noise. Alternatively, you might opt for a heritage-style water feature in the hallway to add a spa-like quality to your home or employ a heritage colour palette of muted greens, soft blues and earthy browns to remind you of the outdoors.

4. Smart Technology

 

 The smart home revolution isn’t showing any signs of slowing down and if you haven’t embraced this technology yet, 2024 is the time to do so! Of course, when working with a period style, you need to be wary that smart technology doesn’t take away from your home’s heritage charm.

Start simple – change the lightbulbs in your statement chandelier to smart bulbs so you can control them remotely or via voice activation. You could also invest in custom-built joinery that houses modern appliances. Having televisions, microwaves, kettles and speaker systems built into remote-controlled cabinetry will help you achieve a heritage look while retaining all your modern comforts.

5. Natural Light

 

 Natural light never goes out of style, but with a greater focus on biophilic design and integrated indoor-outdoor living, it’s never been more important. Many period homes are dark and closed concept, but with a clever renovation or extension, you can add an abundance of natural light to make your home feel brighter, warmer and more welcoming.

Maximise natural light by opting for an open-floor plan and merging your kitchen, living and dining areas. Rather than fixed doors, have open, arched walkways or sliding doors that can be fully opened or closed. Within modern extensions, large windows will help to encourage natural light, while skylights add warmth and light to internal spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms.

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At Period Extensions & Designs, our skilled Design and Build team is ready to transform your home with expertise in incorporating various design styles into your period home. Reach out to us today to embark on your home transformation journey.

Do I Need Architect For Home Renovation
CategoriesDesign Inspiration

Do I Need An Architect For A Home Renovation?

By Period Extensions Team,

For homeowners, renovating their homes can be such a rewarding project. The process can be both exciting and overwhelming, depending on whether you want to remodel your entire home, add a new room, or update your bathroom. Frequently asked is whether working with an architect is necessary for your home renovation project. In this blog, we will examine the function of architects in home renovations, the advantages of working with one, and assist you in deciding whether engaging an architect is the best option for your particular project.

Understanding The Role Of Architects In Home Renovations

An architect is a licensed professional who designs buildings and has the necessary knowledge and experience to make your vision a reality whilst maximising space and functionality.

Architectural services such as design development, space planning, construction documentation, and other factors are frequently sought out by homeowners during remodels. Using these services, you can rest assured that your home improvement project will be finished to your desired results and specifications. An architect is useful whether you need to make small changes or a major overhaul.

Benefits Of Working With An Architect

There are several benefits that come with working with a professional for your home renovation project such as an architect. The benefits of working with an architect include:

1). Expertise In Design And Planning

Architects have the skills and training to turn your vision into a well-designed, functional and aesthetically pleasing space. They think about all parts of the project, like structural needs, planning requirements, and building codes, to come up with a design that meets your needs.

Do I Need Architect For Home Renovation

2). Access to Advanced Tools and Technology

Architects make use of cutting-edge equipment and software to draw up comprehensive plans and specifications. This can help you visualise your renovation project.

3). Knowledge Of Building Codes And Regulations

Architects have the experience and expertise in the requirements for permits and planning and are well-versed in all relevant regulations and therefore, design accordingly. 

4). Increased Home Value And Functionality

A home’s value can certainly increase from a well-planned renovation project. Consult an architect to help you come up with a plan that makes the most of available space while also enhancing the home’s aesthetic appeal.

Final Thoughts

No two projects are the same. An architect can help you achieve your desired aesthetic for your home in the form of a custom design for your home renovation. An architect can create a design that meets your specific needs and requirements while also making the best use of available space, as well as taking care of any permits required.

An architect is invaluable when implementing alterations or creating a unique aesthetic for a building. The advantages of working with an architect are numerous, and you should think about engaging with one for your next home improvement project.

At Period Extensions & Designs, we will be by your side through every step of  your project. Speak to our Architecture and Design Team to assist you in developing a strategy for your home renovation project and come up with a custom design that suits your requirements.

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.

Bathroom Renovations Increase Home Value
CategoriesDesign Inspiration

Do Bathroom Renovations Increase Home Value?  

By Period Extensions Team,

Of all types of home improvements, bathroom renovations are a common choice. Most homeowners embark on a home renovation project to add value to their property or to enjoy the space. 

While some renovations can increase the value of your home, others will not add any value. So, is a bathroom renovation project purely for aesthetics or can it add value to your home? Read on to learn more.

How Much Value Do Bathroom Renovations Add?  

A bathroom renovation is a good place to start if you plan to sell your home and want to increase its market value. 

Understanding how a renovation increases home value and learning how to increase profit when taking on a bathroom remodel project is essential. How much you spend on a renovation project will depend on what changes you want to make and the condition of your existing bathroom. 

Bathroom Renovations Increase Home Value

Bathroom Renovation Ideas

Your renovation ideas will ultimately determine how much you spend on your bathroom renovation project. There are several bathroom renovation ideas you can work with, including:

  • Marble: It is essential to choose the materials you use in your bathroom carefully. Consider installing marble countertops as they are appealing and add a classy feel to your bathroom.
  • Light fixtures: The appropriate light fixtures can significantly transform your bathroom. When renovating your bathroom, ensure you install high quality and stylish lighting. 
  • Fixtures and fittings: Ensure to opt for high-quality fixtures and fittings for your bathroom renovation.
  • Add large mirrors: Installing large mirrors in your bathroom will make it feel more spacious. Consider adding heating pads behind the mirror to prevent it from misting up.

Choosing The Right Bathroom Renovators

While bathroom renovations may increase the value of your home, it is essential to work with a skilled renovator. Here is how to choose the right bathroom renovators:

  • Look around and ask for recommendations from individuals you trust.
  • Go online and read the reviews of a renovator you plan to work with
  • Factor in their customer service
  • Ensure they are reliable and easy to communicate with

Is Bathroom Renovation Worth It?

A bathroom renovation is a worthwhile investment whether you plan to sell your property later or want to enjoy the space yourself. 

 Consult with a professional builder to do the renovations to your bathroom. Overall, bathroom renovations are worth it as they can give you a good return on your investment should you choose to sell your home.

Renovate Your Bathroom Now!

Period Extensions & Designs are an award-winning home extension and renovation company offering superior renovation services. We have more than three decades of experience and work closely with our clients from the concept stage to the completion stage. 

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.

 

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]

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