Moving into an older house with history and character can be an exciting experience. In many countries, historic houses are the norm—unless you opt for a newly built home from the last five years. But how do you know if an old home is right for you?
Many argue that older properties should be preserved as much as possible, with minimal renovations to maintain their historic style. In some cases, legal restrictions may even be included in the property deed, especially if the building is designated as a historic landmark. If your home is registered as a historical property, renovations may be limited by local regulations. But what if your house is old but still grants you renovate freedom? Good style decisions often mean not removing what isn’t broken. But could it be that your house is due for some upgrades? In this article, we’ll make some recommendations so you can decide upon that yourself.
Figuring Out What To Keep
Some features in an old home are unique, adding character you simply can’t buy. Even quirky details—like unusual trimmings you’re unsure about—might be worth keeping.
Talking to your neighbours can offer fresh insight into what makes these homes special. That quirky alcove in the hallway? It might have once held a vintage telephone! Often, what seems outdated at first becomes the detail you love most—and a great conversation starter when guests visit.
Smart Updates That Won’t Ruin The Character
Some things probably need upgrading no matter what. Old wiring might not handle your modern devices (or could be a fire hazard), and you’re not going to see that anyway, so renewing that could be worthwhile. In the same way, old plumbing tends to cause headaches sooner or later for obvious reasons. Better yet, implementing replacement windows can help you retain the style but benefit tremendously from higher security, more profound insulation, and feature sets.
The principle to follow is that you can update these spaces while still keeping the overall feel of the house. There are plenty of fixtures and finishes that look old-school but work like new.
Mixing Old And New Without It Looking Weird
Some jobs in old houses are definitely not DIY territory, and it’s worth understanding that. Electrical work is one of course, because old wiring can be tricky and dangerous. If you’re knocking down walls, you should probably talk to someone who knows if they’re holding up your second floor and be utterly mindful about that.
While it might cost more upfront to hire professionals who know old houses, it usually saves money in the long run, and if you have one who is an expert in your local area? That’s even better. But you may need to be choosy, and your local community might know some good contractors who specialise in older homes. This way you can renovate as standard, but with the correct professional opinion.
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