RENOVATING & EXTENDING A ...
VICTORIAN TERRACE
Looking for a property with project potential?
Renovation expert Kate Sandhu explores what you can achieve with this style of house
Victorian terraced homes are a common feature in UK towns and cities, and offer a great opportunity to transform a period property into a wow-factor home that highlights its heritage
The Victorians certainly knew how to build homes, and though there were variations in style due to the long time span of the era, there are some key features of their terraced houses that make them beautiful and easy to spot. These homes are statement buildings with incredible potential, whatever state they’re in.
The overriding factor is that Victorian terraces are usually ornate; outside you’ll find bay windows, detailed facades, decorative brickwork, ornate gable trim and sash windows. Inside (if you’re lucky enough for features to be preserved), there are high ceilings to make the houses seem grander and bigger than they were, feature fireplaces, detailed plasterwork, such as ceiling roses and coving, and striking floor tiles, often seen in a geometric pattern. In terms of layout, before any alteration, they would often have two floors both with two rooms, with the entrance hall and stairs to one side. Variations on this may include a basement, a third floor or another bedroom to the rear upstairs.
RENOVATION TOP TIPS
1 For any renovation project, you need to start the process by listing your aspirations and objectives – what are your priorities, your non-negotiables and what can you forgo?
2 Think about your floor plan. Does the layout try to solve any of the issues mentioned here? Are you looking to make structural changes or just internal reconfigurations?
3 Get clear on what layout you’re after, even if you then use an architect or designer.
4 Understand what the works will cost. If you want a ballpark figure, use an online estimator for a rough guide. If you’re after a more detailed quote, you will need plans and details of any steels etc from a structural engineer.
5 Consider the property’s period features and what details you want to restore or reinstate. When you’re appointing contractors, make sure that you flag the elements of your home that you want to keep to ensure these details aren’t removed during the renovation works.
6 Make sure you have a plan, as well as knowing when decisions and materials deliveries are needed to help your project remain on track.