Collaborating with many London clients, both commercial and residential, we’re experts in the art of renovating and refurbishing period properties and listed buildings.

A building with historical significance presents exciting opportunities as well as challenges. Here we present part 1 of our 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating a Period Property.

Not Getting the Experts In Early

Engage an experienced architect as early as possible. If we’re honest - if you tick this first box, you’re unlikely to fall into the common conservation architecture pitfalls.

Discussing your project with an architect early on ensures your project meets planning and building regulations, preserves historical character, and answers the needs of a contemporary lifestyle. It also helps you budget and avoid any unwelcome surprises.

In London, where labour costs are high, careful budgeting is crucial, with a recommended contingency fund of 10-15% to cover unforeseen structural issues. Prioritising structural integrity before cosmetic upgrades helps protect your investment, and it’s important to remember that VAT adds 20% to costs, often excluded from builder estimates.

At OVS we manage everything from design and permissions to contractors and costs, guaranteeing a smooth process and a successful outcome.

Failing to Conduct a Structural Survey

Period properties often conceal hidden challenges, such as subsidence, woodworm, or roof damage. Skipping a professional survey may lead to costly surprises during your renovation.

A comprehensive survey will assess the condition of existing damp-proofing provisions, insulation, ventilation and drainage as well as guttering, brickwork, potentially hazardous building materials as well as trees growing close to the building that may lead to structural movement.

Ignoring Listed Building Consent or Planning Permission

If your home is a listed building or lies within a conservation area, even internal alterations may require permission. Failing to obtain the proper approvals could result in fines or being forced to undo your renovations.

An experienced architect will consult with the local authority to ascertain the consent and permissions needed, working to gain the necessary approvals. With a 97% success rate at planning permission, our track record at OVS is excellent.  Our approach is based on over 100 projects, peer-reviewed procedures and a rigorous design strategy. This tried and tested approach ensures we can safeguard the process and provide our clients with the best possible chances of obtaining planning.

Ignoring the Original Architectural Features

This might seem like an obvious one, but it was a common mistake made with many modern renovations of Victorian buildings in the 1970s – 1990s. Yet, with careful research and professional expertise, period finishes can be restored, and original features can be repaired.

Ornate plasterwork, such as ceiling roses and cornices, can be recast by specialists to recapture the home's original character. Additional elements like reclaimed tiles, exposed floorboards, deep skirting boards, and heritage wallpaper further help recreate an authentic period elegance.

Using Incompatible Building Materials

Careful consideration of materials and their uses is key to the successful renovation of a period property.

Modern materials are often essential to meet the needs of contemporary functionality, such as structural stability and efficient insulation. While reclaimed materials including bricks, tiles and timber can be used to reinstate character. Using materials that are compatible with your property’s age and construction method is important. For example, opting for breathable materials like lime plaster over cement can enable greater flexibility, allowing building movement and minimising cracking. Cement, being less breathable and more rigid, can trap moisture and lead to deterioration of historic structures.

Ask the Heritage Specialists

Need help with your extension or renovation of a listed building or historic home? We specialise in architectural conservation, combining historical research, technical expertise, and thoughtful design to sensitively restore and adapt heritage buildings.

Our approach balances authenticity with contemporary functionality, ensuring each project is both sustainable and enduring.

From planning to construction, we integrate traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Contact us today to see how we can help you create a space that honours the past while remaining relevant for the future. In the meantime, stay tuned for part 2 of our 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating a Period Property.