Modernising Without Losing Character

While period homes exude charm, they often lack the conveniences of modern living. Here’s how to update key areas while maintaining historical integrity:

• Kitchens & Bathrooms: Opt for bespoke cabinetry that echoes the home's era, pairing it with high-quality modern appliances. Traditional-style taps, butler sinks and marble worktops offer a seamless blend of old and new.
• Heating & Insulation: Upgrading heating systems is crucial for comfort. Underfloor heating, discreet radiators and secondary glazing improve warmth without compromising aesthetics.
• Lighting & Technology: Statement lighting, such as period-style pendants, can work harmoniously with smart home technology. Use concealed wiring and sympathetic placement of modern fixtures to retain authenticity.



Avoiding Common Renovation Pitfalls

• Planning Permissions: Many period homes, especially listed buildings or those in conservation areas, require approval before making alterations. Work with specialists who understand heritage guidelines to ensure compliance.
• Sourcing Authentic Materials: Reclaimed timber, traditional lime plaster and handmade tiles can be sourced to match original features, ensuring seamless restoration.
• Structural Sensitivity: Older homes require careful handling. Avoid excessive stripping of original features or using incompatible materials that could harm the building’s integrity.

The Beauty of Blending Old and New

A well-executed heritage renovation respects the past while embracing the future. Picture a Victorian townhouse with restored cornicing and an elegant modern kitchen or a Georgian home where period fireplaces contrast with sleek, contemporary furnishings. The best designs allow old and new to coexist harmoniously, creating spaces that are both timeless and functional.

The same can be said for extensions. Your council’s conservation officer will take a view on how extensive renovations should be. It’s often better to design a modern extension to mark a clear line between old and new, rather than create something that looks like it’s old, but has little provenance or authenticity.

Bringing Your Heritage Home to Life

Renovating a period property requires expertise, patience and an eye for detail. At At Home by Design, we specialise in transforming heritage homes with a sympathetic approach, ensuring they remain as stunning as the day they were built—only now with the comforts of modern living. If you're considering a renovation and need expert guidance, get in touch. It’s possible for history and contemporary design to work beautifully together.