When owners of older homes plan improvements, they all too often set about redecorating, installing a new kitchen or bathroom, or adding an extension onto a space that was designed for a different generation without a proper overall plan. These homes built before the advent of central heating, decent insulation and modern domestic appliances, not forgetting today’s flat screen TVs and entertainment systems, are often packaged as a series of individual rooms with solitary functions.
A more coordinated approach to updating an older home would be to plan and decide how best to use the available space in the 21st century. This strategic approach should consider spatial flow, aesthetics, merging uses and reconfiguring walls and doorways. The strategy should question whether kitchens and bathrooms are in the right locations, whether certain functions are required and whether new spaces should be created, with all of this balanced by the individual requirements of how the owners live.
All too often I encounter problems through my work where the owner has in the last couple of years, shelled out quite large sums of money on improvements, only for them not to work out, or be in the wrong place, when it comes to adding a simple extension or carrying out a further alteration. These problems are also all too common to anyone searching to buy a new second hand home, where the previous owners have carried out so called improvements. Having a coordinated planned approach to updating an older home would overcome these problems and helps create a home with space and style fit for the 21st century.
I have just been discussing the possibility of improvements to my home for a few years now but I don’t really have a clear plan or know where to start for that matter. I have no intention of moving any time soon but I wonder if making alterations to the the structure of my period home will decrease its value? I wouldn’t want to do anything major that will effect it or the cost.
We have experience of working on a good many historic homes and listed buildings. Naturally, I would not advocate any work that would have a detrimental effect on the value of your home. But without any specific information regarding your property I cannot answer you in any detail. If you would like to discuss your ideas in more detail, please give me a call or email at the address shown on our main contact page.
Ola! Nigel,
I take your point, Many people may be afraid to hire professional title contractors or designers because they may believe that the company will come in their home and take over. They also may believe that they will get talked into something they really do not want and they will go over budget. Finally, other people think that hiring a professional may take the personal touch out of the job or design they want. This may be the case with some big design or contracting companies, but smaller companies do their best to meet your needs and wants and listen carefully to your ideas.
Keep up the good work