Falchi Interiors’ team of interior designers share their tips
While many love a period property, very few want to live in a museum piece. The secret to making it work is to showcase the original features that you love while integrating contemporary comforts. If you can do this, seamlessly combining the eras, you’ll be leading your much-loved home smoothly into the twenty-first century.
Before you begin
Identify the details that you love and the modern amenities that you want to add. If possible, make any changes that will improve your energy efficiency such as upgrading existing windows or replacing a boiler. Consider how each room/space is used and how you would like it to be used.
Key things to do
> There are several key things that sum up interior design today but can still be applied to a period property such as:
Linking the indoors with the outdoors
Open plan rooms
>Choose light neutral colours as a background and add splashes of bold colours in soft furnishings, artwork and accessories. Continue these themes through the rooms of the house for a cohesive look.
>Reupholster vintage chairs with modern fabrics
>If choosing vintage furniture, look for simple, clean lines that are less obvious to date.
>Continue flooring treatments throughout the house
>Invest in bespoke cabinetry to hide clutter while retaining that period feel
>Consider adding panelling to walls
>Choose light fittings, door handles and electric hardware that meet modern performance criteria while complementing the property’s original details without being twee.
>Use mirrors to enhance the light and space in your rooms
>Don’t be afraid to select classic modern furniture: timeless pieces that don’t lend themselves to being date-stamped.
If you’re still needing help, maybe our Virtual Consultancy might be the answer.
Photos: Todd Sutherland and Anna Stathaki
