Living in a heritage home is a unique experience, and many owners of heritage homes are often proud of their homes’ unique architectural and historical value. However, living in a heritage home can also come with a unique set of challenges, such as wear and tear over the years that might affect the functionality of various aspects of the home. In this post, we take a closer look at some tips for restoring heritage homes to help you preserve their charm while ensuring that your comfort is not compromised.
Understanding Local Building Laws
When it comes to heritage homes or period homes, there are often many building laws that would apply. This is especially the case with heritage homes with unique historical or architectural value. There may be restrictions to the types of improvements or renovations that you are able to make to the home, as well as rules surrounding how much of the home’s façade you must retain. Before restoring a heritage home, it is thus important for you to obtain any necessary permits and consult with heritage consultants.
Documenting Original Features
It can also be a good idea for you to document the home’s original features in video or photograph form. This can entail researching the home’s original architectural style and the building materials used in its construction. This can give you a better idea of what makes the home so unique and can provide guidance on the features that you should focus on preserving during any restoration works.
Choosing the Right Materials
When restoring a heritage home, using authentic materials is also essential for preserving the home’s historical integrity. Thus, it might be a good idea for you to work with a contractor or builder who specialises in restoring heritage homes as they will be able to best advise you on where you can obtain the appropriate materials that were originally used in the home’s construction.
Upgrading Utilities and Systems
Nonetheless, even as you continue to preserve your home’s heritage features and charm, upgrading utilities and systems would likely also be a top priority for you. When performing such upgrades, ensure that they do not damage the home’s structures or aesthetics. Many contractors will often offer discreet installation of utilities such as cooling and heating systems to avoid detracting from the home’s original features. Such installation processes may involve hiding these systems behind wood panelling.
Design Your Dream Home with Australian Heritage Homes
Australian Heritage Homes are the number one period home builders in Melbourne and our team of experts has decades of experience in restoring, designing and building homes for our clients. If you’re looking to live in a custom home, a period home or a heritage home but aren’t sure how to start, we can help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation to find out more about how we might be able to help with your home building needs.