How to Create a Period Feel in Three Simple Steps

There is something special about a period home. Perhaps it’s down to all of the magic it’s witnessed over the years: the marriages, the births, the birthdays, anniversaries, and just plain old happy times. Or perhaps it’s due to the exquisite architecture that’s so rarely found in modern homes. Whatever it is, this unique essence is something that many of us want to capture.

But how do you go about doing so? If you’re hoping to restore your vintage abode to its former glory, here are three simple steps to set you on the right path…

1. Rip Up the Carpets

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One of the best places to start a restoration project is from the ground up. Most homes, however old, will have been carpeted, and over the years these will have been replaced at regular intervals, until you’re faced with a modern monstrosity that simply doesn’t fit your vintage theme. The best way to rectify this is by pulling them up and starting from scratch.

Underneath, you’ll almost certainly find either bare boards or flagged floors, both of which can be easily restored to achieve that period feel. To finish, don’t forget to visit your nearest antique shop to find some exquisitely patterned antique rugs to complete the look.

2. Reclaim the Walls

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Another feature to consider is your walls. Many modern homes are wallpapered, and few of the palettes and designs in use today are in keeping with a period aesthetic. Thankfully, this is simple to remedy. Wallpaper is easily stripped, and unflattering paint colours can be covered over with a more appropriate choice. Whites, creams, and beiges always work well, providing a neutral backdrop for vintage décor, as do pale egg shell blues, pastel pinks, and soft yellows.

It’s nice to accent these palettes with period appropriate wallpaper designs. There are lots of outlets that retail these online, and you might even find that you can purchase some genuine antique wallpaper to cover your feature wall and enhance your home’s vintage appeal.

3. Restore or Replace Your Windows

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The final feature to think about is your windows. Visible from both the interior and exterior of your property, they go a long way towards moulding its aesthetic. Modern double glazed windows are rarely period appropriate, and more traditional options should be carefully researched.

Some homeowners will be fortunate enough to discover that the original windows are still in place, and simply in need of restoration; however, for most, alternatives such as sash windows should be installed. These, along with accessories such as sash weights, can be purchased from a number of outlets, in order to recreate the stately grandeur of bygone days.

Transform your property today with these three simple steps.