From artistic barge boards to terracotta flooring, large bay windows and spacious porches with gingerbread trims, Victorian-era properties truly stand out in the London property markets. Their vivid architecture and cultural appeal are still a symbol of prestige.
However, while many homeowners and property investors realise the value potential of such properties, which are distinctive from their swanky modern counterparts, a few myths surround Victorian properties.
Problems such as dated features or creepiness projected in horror movies are more fiction than facts. If entrusted in the right hands, these 19th-century properties can retain their historic charm while functioning as modern 21st-century masterpieces.
Is it possible to renovate and modernise a Victorian property in London?
Most Victorian houses are over 150 years old and still have firm foundations, proving their superior build quality and design innovation. Their thick walls, high ceilings, large rooms and space-creating opportunities make them highly favourable for family living. However, that time also had evolving trends, and renovation planning will require a strategy based on whether the property is early, mid or late Victorian.
You can start by restoring the plasterwork and intricate detailing features, such as mouldings, cornicing, and ceiling roses, which were a speciality of such properties but got lost in time. Sash windows are appealing, but their insulation capability may not be at par with modern double or triple-glazed windows that can prevent heat from escaping. Updating windows is another area to look at when renovating such a property.
What makes Victorian homes in London different to renovate?
Victorian architecture and design styles are unique as they stand out from modern properties. Dedicated fireplaces, Belfast sinks, pine or hardwood flooring and freestanding rolltop baths are some traditional aesthetics that previous owners may have overlooked or replaced over the years, and restoring them can bring your property back to its original grandeur.
However, restoring aesthetics may be insufficient if the property has witnessed years of neglect. When renovating a period property, the most expensive jobs are often the ones that are not exposed but cause the most inconvenience or financial strain. The electric consumption of the 19th century is no match for our present-day needs. Similarly, the damp-proofing technology and insulation of those days do not meet the standards of modern advancements. Draught and damp-proofing with insulation and electrical upgrades can improve the EPC rating and reduce maintenance and ownership costs.
How does InStyle Direct support Victorian property renovations?
Given their spacious layouts, Victorian properties have a lot of potential for improvements and modifications. With over two decades of experience in this field, InStyle Direct has worked on several Victorian and period property enhancements. Whether your property is detached, semi-detached or terraced, our expert in-house designers, architects, and renovation specialists can optimise the existing layout to maximise its utility and aesthetic value.
From stylish kitchen and bathroom upgrades to single or multi-storey rear and side extensions, including loft conversions, we can successfully add more square footage to increase the value of such high-potential homes. We have worked on upgrades such as dedicated space for a home office, dressing rooms, and powder rooms for many Victorian homes.
How long does a typical renovation take?
Renovating a period property can be tricky, and the time it takes will depend on the scale of transformation and the scope of work required to modernise such a house. While cosmetic refurbishments like repainting or adding new furniture can be completed in a week, full renovations take longer. These include knocking down walls, changing the flooring or making structural changes to create more space, which can take six to 10 weeks.
The more in-depth the makeover, the more time it will take and the more money it will cost. Therefore, proper planning and budgeting with an interior design and renovation expert like InStyle Direct is highly beneficial for Victorian property owners and landlords who want to reside in or rent them.
Our one-stop approach to renovation ensures clients get all services under one roof and don’t have to coordinate with multiple vendors and contractors to get their properties up to speed with modern upgrades. We also work extensively with overseas property owners and investors looking for remote solutions for their period properties. Contact us today if you have a Victorian-era house in need of renovation.
