There are many unexpected issues that can arise when it comes to period home renovations. These problems can include things such as not securing the right permits or needing to replace outdated electrical systems.
Because of this, it is important that you are aware of the do’s and the don’ts of period home renovation.
Period home renovation involves a lot of thorough planning and thinking ahead. It is important that you not only accomplish these two things but to work with professionals who can also help guide you along the way.
If you want to learn more about the do’s and the don’ts of period home renovation, then please explore our quick guide below.
The Do’s Of Period Home Renovation
Before we get into the don’ts of period home renovations, let’s discuss what the do’s are. Here are a few of them:
1). Do Acquire Proper Permits
Applying for proper permits and consent is paramount when it comes to renovating period homes. It is common for home renovators to unknowingly breach not just local council regulations, but also heritage restrictions if your period home is actually heritage listed.
As such, make sure you consult with your contractor or builder to ensure that the renovations you wish to make are actually permitted.
2). Do Your Research
This is a step that you should not miss out on. Research can include identifying problem points in your home that need renovation through to finding a contractor that is suitable for the job. It is important that your renovations are able to not only improve the aesthetics and functionality of your home but help address necessary issues such as fixing plumbing or electrical issues. This is where professional help can be worth their weight in gold.
3). Do Stay True To Your Home
Make sure that the renovations you plan to make also match the style of your home. This can help promote a more cohesive and consistent home, especially for potential buyers. For example, do not add steel appliances to a country kitchen.
The main point is to ensure that the improvements you make are modern enough to meet the wants and needs of people today but are also consistent with what the various elements of your home look like.
4). Do Consider Your Neighbours
Of course, you can’t forget about your neighbours! Make sure that you inform your neighbours of your renovation plans in case it might affect their homes such as space and light.
The Don’ts Of Period Home Renovation
Just as there are do’s of period home renovation, there are also don’ts. The following are just a few of them:
1). Don’t Do It Yourself
While there are certain parts of a period renovation that you can do yourself, it is important that you also seek professional services to help sort out certain elements such as plumbing, electrical wiring etc.
Moreover, professional expertise helps ensure that proper materials are used to not only ensure quality workmanship but to also ensure that the materials are in keeping with the style of your period home.
2). Don’t Work Without A Detailed Design Plan
Coming up with a detailed design plan can help you establish your aesthetics and develop a more refined remodelling plan. More importantly, a detailed design plan will ensure that elements within your home do not encroach on each other in the given space you have.
Consulting with an experienced professional can help introduce the latest home remodelling ideas to incorporate innovative approaches to maximise space and storage. A professional may also suggest aesthetic interior designs that may fit the vision you have.
3). Don’t Forget Contracts
It is a must that you do not forget certain contracts depending on the type of work you plan to carry out. Make sure you have an architect or builder that can help advise you on what contracts you will be needing.
4). Don’t Assume The Project Will Be Straightforward
When it comes to period renovations, you could very well come across unexpected issues. You might encounter additional measures that need to be taken into consideration in terms of space, materials, structure, and services.
As such, it is important that you prepare for these possibilities and set aside a contingency budget that is at least 10% of the contract value.
Final Thoughts
Period renovations are an exciting project to embark on, but there are certain do’s and dont’s that come with a project such as this.
If you are looking for some period home renovation ideas, then please speak to us at Period Extensions & Designs. Our award-winning designers have a plethora of experience when it comes to designing extensions and renovations from period-style homes, right through to contemporary structures.
We will listen to what you want and use our knowledge and experience to turn your vision into a truly exquisite design, which we will then bring to life.
Whether you need help with the design or the actual extension and renovation itself, please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or contact us through our contact form.