Five tips for taking on a period home renovation

Here are five tips to help you navigate a period home renovation, preserving the character and charm of your property while updating it for modern living

Author Matthew ShawInterior stylist and bloggerWritten 16/07/2024

A modern living room features a grey sectional sofa with decorative pillows and a blue throw, positioned in front of large windows with stained glass. A chandelier hangs above a coffee table with books and plants, adjacent to a wooden sideboard with decor.

Taking on a period home renovation is like stepping into a piece of history and making it your own. But, as exciting as it is, renovating a period property comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re captivated by the elegance of a Victorian house, the symmetry of a Georgian residence, or the grace of an Edwardian dwelling, it’s important to have a game plan. Here are five tips to help you navigate a period home renovation, preserving the character and charm of your property while updating it for modern living.

A person wearing overalls arranges a cushion on a sofa. They are in a living room with large bay windows, letting in natural light and revealing trees outside.

1. Prioritise quality over quantity

Invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that complement the period style. Opt for well-made furniture, historically accurate hardware, and durable materials. This ensures a lasting and aesthetically pleasing renovation.

A person in overalls cleans a tall window, light streaming in, next to a lush fern in a spacious room with wooden flooring and a visible coat rack.

2. Research, respect, restore

Before diving in, thoroughly research your home’s period and style. Understanding the original features and materials is crucial for respectful restoration. Seek guidance from professionals like architects, builders, and historical preservation specialists to ensure an authentic and well-executed renovation.

Two single beds with knitted blankets and striped pillows sit on either side of a box labeled "KENYA TEA" under a window in a cozy, attic-style room.

3. Embrace the imperfections

Period homes hold unique character, often reflected in their imperfections. Embrace these quirks. Don’t strive for sterile perfection; celebrate the worn floorboards, slightly uneven walls, and original architectural details. These elements tell the story of your home.

Desk with chair and lamp sits against a teal wall between windows, next to a white fireplace. Decor includes a wall hanging and a picture frame with horses.

4. Patience is key

Renovating a period home is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the journey, savour the discoveries, and be patient with the process. Unexpected challenges may arise, but the satisfaction of restoring your home to its former glory is truly rewarding.

A hand holds a Somfy remote control, featuring three buttons labeled with arrows and "my," directed towards a patterned geometric window blind in a brightly lit room.

5. Honour the past, embrace the present

While respecting the period, don’t be afraid to incorporate modern touches for comfortable living. Roman blinds are perfect for that - they add a softness that complements heritage features but are now available as electric blinds, operated via a handy remote or wall switch. You can even upgrade to smart blinds, operated via mobile app or voice command.

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