Heritage homes are popular in cities, and while their traditional charm is appealing, upgrading them can be difficult. One major challenge is following the local rules about what changes you’re allowed to make. That is why this read is for you. Here, we will discuss everything about renovating a heritage home.
What to Know Before Renovating a Heritage House
- Council Approval
Check with the local council to see if there are any restrictions before beginning any renovations. Check the City Plan Heritage Register to see if your property is designated as a heritage site and whether it can be renovated or destroyed. If your property is heritage-listed, you will need to submit detailed plans and reports for any major renovations, such as extensions or lifts. Minor changes like replacing guttering or repainting may not require approval, but it’s always best to confirm.
- Inspect Your Home
A thorough inspection is crucial to avoid unexpected problems and costs before renovating your home. Knowing the condition of the foundation and checking for issues like termite damage can prevent larger problems during the renovation. Hire a building inspector to assess the house and identify any necessary repairs or structural concerns before starting your project.
- Work with Experienced Builders
Renovating a heritage house requires specialized skills, as builders need to accurately replicate historical features. An experienced builder will understand how to preserve the home’s original characteristics and ensure that new renovations integrate smoothly with the existing structure. Therefore, look for the best renovation builders in Brisbane and start renovating your heritage home.
- Avoid Overemphasizing Original Features
For instance, mid-century homes are known for their expansive open-plan living areas, distinct sleeping quarters, and plentiful natural light elements that are highly valued in modern design. However, it’s important not to overemphasize these features. Doing so can result in a final design that feels exaggerated and doesn’t accurately reflect the home’s original architectural style.
What You Can Do When Heritage House Renovations
- You Can Make a Heritage Home Livable
If your heritage home hasn’t been updated recently, you might need to modernize various elements to ensure it is safe and comfortable. This could include updating the electrical wiring, installing internet cables, adding power points, and incorporating efficient heating and cooling systems. Additionally, replacing outdated or damaged lighting and old plumbing and installing fire and smoke alarms are acceptable modifications under Heritage guidelines, helping to make the home both safe and livable.
- You Can Exchange Like-for-Like Items
For necessary maintenance on a heritage home’s interior and exterior, you generally do not need approval for like-for-like repairs. This means you can replace an old, rotting window frame with one of the same eras in better condition, restore a damaged original ceiling rose, or remove worn tiles and balustrades. These repairs help maintain the home’s historical integrity while ensuring functionality.
- You Can Install New Fittings and Fixtures
As long as new fixtures and fittings do not damage or diminish the original features of a heritage home, these updates are acceptable. It is best to select new fixtures that complement the time of your property to ensure they blend in with the existing decor and do not detract from the overall appearance.
- Kitchens and Bathrooms Can Be Updated
In some heritage homes, kitchens and bathrooms may be outdated and unsafe by modern standards. Renovating these spaces to improve functionality and hygiene is crucial. This might involve replacing old showers, baths, sinks, plumbing, tapware, splashbacks, tiles, and cabinetry to meet current living standards.
- You Can Make Cosmetic Changes
You are allowed to paint the interiors, change flooring, and give your heritage home a cosmetic update, provided that no major structural changes are made. These improvements help refresh the look of the home while preserving its historic character.
- You Can Repair and Preserve Details
Essential repairs that do not affect the home’s integrity are generally permitted. This includes replacing damaged features with close replicas, updating ceilings and wooden floors, or installing modern lighting. These actions help maintain the home’s historical character while addressing wear and tear.
Wrapping it Up
Choose an experienced builder when renovating a heritage home. Choosing an inexperienced builder might result in increased costs and perhaps irreversible damage to your house. Hence take time and choose the best renovation Builders in Brisbane to ensure your home is handled with care.
