Renovating old houses can be a risky business: is it possible to update a classic property without losing its charm?
Fortunately, this can be done, provided you are careful in your approach. The key is knowing what to keep and what to get rid of; what needs to be updated and what can stay?
Here are 6 tips to keep the charm alive while bringing your old home into the modern era.
1. Retain the original equipment
You probably know the word "fixtures", but what does it really mean? Fixtures are usually attached to the property. We are talking about doors, window treatments, lighting, brackets, handles and buttons.
When in good condition, these seemingly minor fixtures contribute to the charm of an old house. If you replace them for modern installations, you may also want to remove part of the character.
The original projectors do not have to stay where they are. They can be deleted and reused if it makes sense to do so. For example, an old drawing door can be sanded and turned into a solid kitchen table.
2. Do not be afraid to update the plumbing and wiring
In fact, you may need to make two updates. Plumbing and electrical wiring have grown by leaps and bounds and it is wise to improve your home. There is nothing charming about flowing toilets, cold showers or light fixtures that spark when you turn it on.
These updates make a big difference, but they do not have to change the look of the house. Keep your chandelier and your clawfoot tub (more tips on this in Tip # 5), but do not lock yourself in the old world plumbing!
3. To go hunting
Find out when the house was built, then look for materials from this era. Building materials change over time, and so many renovations seem incongruous. This is not so obvious when all materials are from the same era, but mixing old floor boards with new ones can make it feel like you have a sore thumb.
If you want to preserve the personality of your old home, try to choose objects that are as old as the house. It can be anything from unpublished lighting or even complementary furniture to interior design.
4. Exposing bones
There is something in the exposed beams and stones that catch your eye, is not it? If your home has already intentionally exposed these items, consider keeping them if possible.
The addition of wooden beams is another way to use your new skills in antiquity. Look for materials that fit your home and install non-load beams in a high ceiling to add a feeling of comfort to your room. This is particularly effective in kitchens, bedrooms and living rooms.
5. Consider modern imitations
Sometimes imitations are a poor approximation of the original and an obvious attempt to retain its charm. But there are many ways to reintroduce the appearance of an old house without hanging on cracked paint or flaking tiles.
Flooring is a key element of older homes, but most do not stand the test of time. Look for modern replicas of mosaic tiles or parquet flooring to achieve a convincing effect.
Modern imitations are very useful in bathrooms, where old pedestal sinks and heavy leg pans look great, but are not always practical. Replace a damaged clawfoot tub with a lighter acrylic version that pays tribute to the roots of your home.
6. Talk to a professional about the layout
Old houses are easy to romanticize in our minds, we think of attractive details and not scraps, like a square and closed configuration. Today's buyers are attracted to the plans and natural light, which do not always abound in old homes.
But changing the layout can be problematic, especially if you want to preserve elements of the original house. Discuss with a builder or architect what can be done to give the layout or flow you are looking for.
Professionals can help you identify load-bearing walls and other basic elements that can not be moved, and show you how to transform your floor plan. Keep or restore items such as moldings, arched doors, and bay windows, but remove walls that simply block parts unnecessarily. Do not forget to hang on these doors!
The charm of an old house often lies in the details. You do not have to keep it exactly as before (unless you want it), but you do not have to turn it into an elegant 21st century structure either.
Watch for the features that attract your home and find ways to include them in your renovations. In this way, you will be able to make the most of both worlds in a house that you are proud to show.
For more tips and tricks, or to compare home loans and save, visit homeloansaustralia.com today.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Your Investment Property.
Do you have more than $ 200,000 in your super fund? You Can Use Your Super To Buy A Property – Find Out How
