Victorian and Edwardian homes are architectural gems, but they often need a little TLC to shine again. Their timeless charm and intricate details make them perfect candidates for a romantic transformation. Whether you want to embrace vintage elegance or mix traditional styles with modern comfort, creating a romantic aesthetic is easier than you might think.

If you’re planning a house renovation in Melbourne, working with experienced home renovators in Melbourne is key. They’ll help you balance history with functionality while breathing romance into every corner. So, if you’re searching for romantic design ideas for period homes, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Victorian and Edwardian Homes Deserve a Romantic Touch

Victorian and Edwardian homes are not just houses—they are pieces of history. These period properties offer unique architectural elements that modern homes often lack. From intricate woodwork to high ceilings and tall windows, their bones are perfect for creating a romantic and inviting space.

What Makes These Homes Special?

Every Victorian and Edwardian house tells a story through its design. Here’s why they deserve a romantic renovation:

• Preserve Their Character: Heritage homes boast stunning original features like mouldings, fireplaces, and stained glass. Restoring these can enhance their romantic appeal.
• Timeless Elegance: Victorian and Edwardian styles evoke a sense of nostalgia. Romantic renovations build on this timeless beauty.
• Increased Value: Renovating a heritage home with a romantic aesthetic can boost both its appeal and market value.

With a bit of imagination and the right tools, you can bring out the romance in your home while respecting its history.

Romantic Renovation Ideas for Victorian Homes

Victorian homes, built between the mid-19th century and the early 20th century, are all about detail and drama. To create a romantic interior, focus on accentuating their natural beauty while adding thoughtful touches.

Highlight the Charm of Victorian Home Romance

Victorian homes are known for their ornate details, from intricate cornices to patterned tiles. These elements provide the perfect foundation for a romantic home renovation.

• Colour Schemes: Stick to soft tones like blush, cream, and sage. These shades highlight the beauty of Victorian home romance.
• Feature Walls: Use vintage wallpaper with floral or damask prints to create a striking romantic vibe.
• Lighting: Chandeliers or antique sconces can add warmth and elegance.

Victorian Decor Inspiration

To truly bring the romance alive in your Victorian home, consider incorporating period-appropriate decor. Some ideas include:

• Layered curtains with lace trims.
• Richly upholstered furniture in velvet or leather.
• Ornate mirrors to reflect natural light.
• Decorative rugs to tie the space together.

You can mix these elements with modern features for a fresh yet classic look that feels both timeless and practical.

Edwardian Homes: Simple Yet Sophisticated Romantic Updates

Edwardian homes, built in the early 20th century, have a more open and airy design compared to Victorian homes. Their simplicity makes them a great canvas for adding subtle yet impactful romantic touches.

Embrace Edwardian House Makeover Ideas

Edwardian homes often feature symmetrical layouts and an abundance of natural light. Here’s how to enhance their beauty while creating a romantic atmosphere:

• Open Spaces: Create flow between rooms with wide doorways or archways.
• Natural Materials: Use wood, stone, and other earthy elements for warmth.
• Classic Patterns: Incorporate geometric tiles in kitchens or bathrooms.

Edwardian Style Updates That Work

To elevate your home’s romantic appeal while staying true to its Edwardian roots, focus on elegant, understated updates:

• Built-in shelves for displaying vintage books or ceramics.
• Stained glass windows in pastel hues.
• Crown mouldings and ceiling roses to elevate ceilings.
• Neutral colour palettes to emphasise light and space.

These small yet meaningful changes can transform your Edwardian property into a warm and inviting romantic retreat.

Romantic Interior Design Tips for Period Homes

Creating a romantic home design for period properties requires attention to detail and an appreciation for the home’s history. With the right approach, you can transform every room into a space that feels cosy, intimate, and timeless.

Revamp Your Living Spaces

The living room is often the heart of the home, so it’s the perfect place to start. To create a romantic atmosphere:

• Place a plush rug beneath your coffee table for texture.
• Add throw pillows in soft, complementary shades.
• Install an antique fireplace for a dramatic focal point.

These updates are simple yet effective in creating a space that feels warm and inviting.

Romantic Room Transformations You’ll Love

Every room in your home offers opportunities for romantic updates. Here are some ideas:

• Bedroom: Use canopy beds, soft linens, and ambient lighting to create a luxurious retreat.
• Kitchen: Blend classic cabinets with modern appliances for a functional yet charming space.
• Bathroom: Add a freestanding clawfoot tub, vintage taps, and elegant tiles for timeless sophistication.

By giving each room its own romantic identity, you can create a cohesive and enchanting home.

Blending Heritage and Modern Comfort

Balancing tradition with modern comfort can be tricky, but it’s key to a successful romantic renovation. You don’t want to lose the historic charm while updating the home to suit contemporary lifestyles.

Heritage Home Interior Design Done Right

When modernising period homes, it’s crucial to respect their history. Here’s how to do it well:

• Retain original timber floors and refinish them.
• Restore decorative plasterwork like ceiling medallions.
• Use reclaimed materials for an authentic feel.

These choices preserve the heritage of your home while keeping it functional and liveable.

Elegant Home Updates for a Balanced Look

To achieve a harmonious mix of old and new:

• Install discreet modern lighting fixtures.
• Replace heavy drapery with sheer curtains.
• Opt for neutral walls to complement intricate decor.

These subtle changes can make a big difference without overshadowing the home’s original features.

Practical Tips for a Romantic Home Renovation

A successful romantic renovation starts with proper planning. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

Classic Home Design Tips You Can Use

Keep these practical ideas in mind as you plan your renovation:

• Plan each room’s layout before you start.
• Set a realistic budget to avoid surprises.
• Choose quality over quantity when it comes to materials.
• Work with professionals to restore intricate details.

Planning ahead ensures a smoother renovation process and better results.

Heritage Home Renovation Must-Haves

To create a romantic aesthetic, focus on these essential elements:

• Decorative wainscoting for dining rooms.
• Vintage-inspired furniture and accents.
• Pendant lights for kitchens and hallways.

These details enhance the beauty of your home while staying true to its heritage.

FAQs About Romantic Renovations for Period Homes

1. Can you mix modern furniture with vintage designs?
Yes, combining modern and vintage pieces can create a balanced and sophisticated look. Focus on complementary colours and textures.

2. How can I restore original features in my home?
Hire specialists for historic home restoration. They can repair and revive details like cornices, fireplaces, and stained glass windows.

3. Are there affordable options for romantic home design?
Absolutely! Simple updates like fresh paint, soft furnishings, and lighting swaps can make a big impact without breaking the bank.

4. What are some timeless colour schemes for period homes?
Neutral tones like beige, grey, and cream work beautifully. Add romance with accents in blush, gold, or sage.

5. How long does a romantic renovation typically take?
The timeline depends on the scope of the project. Small updates may take weeks, while larger renovations can take months.

Bring Your Vision to Life with Period Extensions

Ready to give your home a romantic makeover? Trust the experts at Period Extensions & Designs to transform your Victorian or Edwardian property into a stunning masterpiece. With years of experience in traditional house transformation and heritage home renovation, we’ll ensure your vision comes to life with impeccable craftsmanship. Get in touch now to begin your journey toward the perfect blend of history and romance!

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.

Whether you are doing it to improve the condition or aesthetics of your home, renovating can be quite intimidating. To make things easier, it is important for you to come up with a comprehensive plan for the entire process and engage experienced professionals to make sure the job is done properly and to a high standard.

Before you go ahead with the renovation process, there are a few important factors you need to consider. Please continue reading for a comprehensive home renovation checklist to help you plan and execute an effective and efficient home renovation project.   

Renovation Checklist: Things You Need Before

• Define Your Needs: Start by making a list of your needs and your wants. This way, you will know what to aim for. Making two separate lists of what you want and what you need also makes it easier for you to make decisions when faced with competing choices. You can use your list of requirements to come up with a detailed plan for the renovation project. 
• Permissions: Depending on the extent and nature of renovation work needed, your project may require planning permits from the council for the planned work. This is where using a professional with experience in this area can save you lots of time as they have the experience and expertise to handle this side of things and achieve the best outcome.
• Engage an experienced Builder: This is key to achieving the best outcome possible. Be sure to engage with a company that has plenty of experience in the industry and specialises in designing and building renovations to a very high standard.  

Final Thoughts 

Renovation projects, just like any other construction projects can be quite challenging to get done. However, with the right preparation and selection of the best builder for your particular project, you can ensure a stress-free job with a great outcome. 

Contact Us For Your Home Renovation Needs 

Planning a home renovation project? Please get in touch with our Design and Build team and let us help you achieve the home you have always dreamed of.

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.

 

Does an ideal home exist? Sometimes, you get all the facilities you want nearby such as parks, shopping, gyms and schools but perhaps the house isn’t big enough for your needs. 

Rather than moving house, you can have the home of your dreams by staying put and building a suitable house extension. A house extension will not only give you everything you want but will also enhance the value of your property.

What Is a House Extension?

Building a house extension is the process of adding extra space to an existing property. House extensions continue to grow in popularity and avoids the need to move. It not only allows you to create the space and features you want in your home but also adds a lot of value to your property.

There are different types of extensions. You can add another story to the house (if council regulations permit) which can almost double your living space, and add additional bedrooms and bathrooms. This can be an excellent option for some of the inner city suburbs where land size is limited. 

If you have the land size, you could also opt for extending outwards on the ground floor and increasing the footprint of the home by creating an open plan living area or kitchen, as well as additional rooms as required. 

Home Extension Costs

There is no standard cost for an extension as it depends on a variety of factors. 

Here’s a list of some of the factors that affect the cost of a home extension, including (but not limited to):

• Size of the planned extension
• Upward or outward extension
• Materials that will be used 
• Cost of new appliances and fittings
• Cost of engaging the services of professionals
• Site accessibility
• Site topography such as flatland or a steep hill
• Need for demolition
• Need for excavation
• Removal of hazardous materials

The cost of a home extension will vary depending on the scale of the project.

How to Plan Your House Extension

Your first step should be to write down a list of your requirements. Do you need additional bedrooms or a new kitchen or bathroom? Are you looking to create an open plan living and dining area? Would you like to create an outdoor entertaining area?  Do you want a spacious laundry or a conservatory? Think about the availability of space and whether it is possible to convert existing rooms.

In short, you need to brainstorm and come up with priorities. If you have a growing family, you may want to add more bedrooms and bathrooms to the house. If you have relatives that visit frequently, you might want to add a guest room.

Final Thoughts

Overall, not only does a house extension cater to your family’s needs, a house extension project has the potential to add a lot of value to your house. When deciding on the type of house extension, you should carefully go through your requirements and prioritise your needs. 

Custom Home Renovation & Extension Experts

Period Extensions & Designs is a premium extension and renovation company based in Melbourne. We have more than 3 decades of experience in the industry, and we can certainly help you with your house extension or renovation project. We are an award-winning company with numerous extension and renovation projects under our belts.

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.

When a house gets too small for its current occupants, most people automatically think about moving to a larger home. However, do you know there is another way to deal with this? Building an extension!

Not only does an extension increase the square meterage of the home, but it also presents an opportunity to personalise your space, especially if you didn’t get that chance with the existing house. For those with poorly lit interiors or cramped living spaces with no flow, a house extension offers a golden opportunity at amplifying natural lighting and open up the house in a way you have always dreamed of. 

Expanding Existing Homes With Modern Extensions 

While extending an old house with matching materials creates a seamless transition, contrasting exudes a wow factor that is hard to replicate. It also adds a contemporary feel while dramatically allowing both sections to stand out.

If you’re wary that a modern house extension will clash with your existing house, replicate structures like archways and mouldings, or utilise similar floors to foster visual flow and cohesion. 

 

Modern Extension Ideas

Our modern house extension projects below are guaranteed to provide some future inspiration when it comes to sprucing up your home. 

The Single Storey Extension 

The purpose of this extension is to boost a home’s existing floor space. This type of extension is ideal for larger living areas or kitchen extensions. Also, it seems perfect sense to add a master ensuite bedroom plus a walk-in wardrobe.  In addition, don’t forget to consider your outdoor area. A single-storey extension can create a wonderful indoor-outdoor living zone that blends your outdoor entertaining area with your indoor living area.

The Two Storey Extension

Adding another structure on top of your single floor building is a clever way of expanding your living space without compromising your outdoor and garden space. The project can help you increase the number of bedrooms or even living areas in the upstairs room without losing any space in the backyard. With this type of project, you and your growing family will feel more comfortable in the extra space available in the house.

Modern Extensions for Period Homes

A modern house extension is ideal for period houses such as art deco homes, federation cottages, and Victorian terrace houses. However, the extension has to respect the footprint and architecture; thus, a thorough understanding of who will be using the house and how it will be used is required. Overdoing it might end up ruining the appeal of the original structure.

Final Thoughts 

House extensions offer an appealing solution to increasing your home size and value. Although it is an exciting process, you should ensure you appoint an experienced Design and Build company.

Contact Us For Your Home Renovation & Extension Needs

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Period Extensions & Designs for all your house extension and renovation needs. We boast an enviable portfolio of quality projects right across Melbourne with more than 30 years of experience under our belt. 

 

Please call us today at Period Extensions & Designs on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.

 

Are you contemplating getting a home office extension? What are some of the critical things you should know before planning one? 

Over the past couple of years, we are seeing much more of the working from home arrangement. Many companies are moving away from having physical office space and transitioned to remote working. A few years back, the concept of working from home would have been unimaginable but is now the new norm. As a result of more companies transitioning to a remote work setting, more people are looking into having a home office extension. Please keep reading to learn more about home office extensions.

Work From Home Is The New Normal

There are multiple benefits of remote work for both employees and employers, and more companies are embracing this concept. More job seekers are leaning towards pursuing a career that allows them to work remotely as it may offer them a better work-life balance. Working from home is becoming the new normal. 

A 2021 study by Mercer showed that 70% of companies planned to adopt this hybrid model.

More companies have realised that employees do not have to be in the office full time to be productive. Remote work is a concept that is most likely here to stay. Therefore, it may be time to consider house extension ideas if you work from home. In order to ensure a more productive work environment, it makes sense to have designated office space in your home. 

If you will be working from home long term, having a dedicated space as the office will allow you to have a better work-life balance. 

Things You Need To Know Before Planning A Home Office Extension

It would be best to consider multiple factors before you start planning a home office extension. Having the extra space will make it easy to work from home and prevents you from getting distracted. Here is what you should know:

• What do you want to achieve: Have a goal of what this extension should achieve. Do you want more natural light in the home office? Would you also like extra space in the living area? Knowing what you want determines what changes you will make.
• Where will you put the extension: It is essential to determine where you want the extension. You can employ different house extension designs, including loft conversions, rear extensions, and second storey extensions (if permitted by the council).
• Professional builder: It is essential to procure the services of an experienced builder for the best results.

Benefits Of Creating A Work-Friendly Space

It is essential to create a work-friendly space in your home. Here are the benefits of creating a work-friendly space:

• Work-life balance: Having a work-friendly space creates a clear boundary between your work hours and when you are off work. It can ensure that you have a healthy work-life balance.
• Get work done: A work-friendly space ensures minimal distractions allowing you to get work done during work hours. It helps to have an office space instead of working in the living space, or on the dining table.
• Does not impose on your personal life: When working from home, it is essential to have extra space for your work to avoid having your work life pour into your personal life. When you have a separate office space, it can help you ‘switch off’ when it comes to personal or family time.

Ground Floor Vs Second Storey Office Extension

You may be contemplating whether it is better to have a second storey or ground floor office extension. Your property location, land size, council regulations, and budget will determine whether a second storey or ground floor office extension makes sense. It will help if you consult a professional to determine what style extension suits your needs best. 

Final Thoughts

Working from home is the new norm, which offers employees multiple benefits. It is essential to have a working space to ensure an appropriate work-life balance. There are different types of home office extension ideas to choose from depending on the layout and size of your home. 

Contact Us For Your Home Extension & Renovation Needs

At Period Extensions & Designs, we have over 30 years of experience doing home extensions and renovations. Would you like to improve your home with an extension or renovation? Let our skilled Design and Building Team work on your project. 

Please call Period Extensions & Designs today on (03) 8658 1340 or make an enquiry.