Retaining character of period properties can be rewarding

London has a long and illustrious history and many of its older properties are an integral part of West London’s extraordinary story. Owning a period house in London is a source of real pride for those fortunate enough to make their dream a reality. However, owning a period property the most exclusive neighbourhoods such as Mayfair, Holland Park, Kensington or Chelsea also involves a certain amount of responsibility. These properties could be considered like an ageing family member, someone that needs looking after and demands lots of attention, which means investment of time as well as resources.

Period properties often need significant modernisation. The real character of these properties largely exists on the outside where evidence of the technology available, the styles and fashions or even taxation regimes in place, dictated a property’s design. On the inside, period features and interiors may have been exposed to heat, water damage or damp over time, casting serious doubt over their effectiveness or suitability for modern day living unless the property owners take action and renovate their property in West London. Rooms were usually smaller (as they were expensive to heat) and function played an important part in determining how areas in a property were laid out (servant quarters vs entertaining vs family living areas).

Although many properties remain fit for purpose (remarkable considering they are sometimes two or three hundred years old) period property owners can improve their property by inviting renovation specialists in London to take a look at their interiors and modernise their homes. Modernisation can be carried out in very subtle ways – improving wall sound and heat insulation, squaring ceiling and levelling floors, replacing windows and making them fit for purpose and environmentally-friendly. All of these design considerations help add to the enjoyment of living in a fine residential property in West London. Whilst protecting and maintaining the period character of a property adds to its charm and appeal, careful refurbishment by expert renovation teams is very satisfying and rewarding – both financially and emotionally.