Character never goes out of style, and if you’ve got an older property, chances are it’s full of it, from the original fireplaces and sash windows to the odd nook or alcove that makes the space feel a bit different from anything new. One of the best things about these kinds of homes is the craftsmanship that’s built into them. You don’t have to try too hard to spot it- it’s there in the details. That said, some of those lovely old features can end up hidden or worn down over time and so a bit of care and the right updates can make a big difference. Whether you’ve just moved into a Victorian terrace or you’ve been living in your Edwardian home for years, there are plenty of simple ways to bring out its best. Keep reading for some practical ideas to help you celebrate the character that’s already there.
Let the fireplace take centre stage
A beautiful fireplace is often the heart of a period room. Whether it's an ornate cast iron surround, a marble mantelpiece or a rustic brick, half it deserves a spotlight. If yours has been covered up or removed over the years, consider restoration or reinstatement to one that suits your home's age and style. Visiting a specialist fireplace store can help you, because then you can browse traditional designs and talk to experts who know what they're doing. You'll find everything from Victorian tiled inserts to Edwardian wooden surrounds, and many shops offer expert advice on what suits different eras. Once you've restored it, you can keep it simple. A mirror, a vintage clock and a hook for a stocking at Christmas time is all you need.
Embrace the home's original flooring
There's nothing quite like the creak of original floorboards under foot or the charm of quarry tiles in a hallway. If your home has hidden treasures beneath the carpet, then it's worth the effort to reveal them. For original wood floors, all you need to do is sand them and seal them and breathe new life into them. If you want to go even further, you can buy period style rugs or runners to soften the space without hiding the charm that's been hidden for years. If you have tiles and they're cracked or missing, then you can look at salvage yards or architectural reclamation sites to find authentic replacements. Remember that not everything has to be perfect. A few squeaks or scratches adds to the story.
Highlight the ceiling roses
Those intricate details on ceiling roses shouldn't be covered up, they were put there to be admired! So give them a chance to shine by cleaning them up and giving them a fresh lick of crisp white paint. Resist the urge to cover them with modern alternatives because you're trying to enhance the period features, not hide them.
Use colour and light
Period properties often suit a more classic palette. If you think of those dusky pinks, soft blues and heritage greens, that's exactly what you're going for. These tones work beautifully with natural wood, aged brass and traditional furniture. If you go with warm layered lighting, you can layer your colour scheme with it. So the wall sconces, the pendant lights and the vintage lamps that you have can create that soft and inviting glow.
