Autumn Inspiration

Join us and go behind the scenes of this HOUSE TOURS 1930's Renovation. Step inside and see how a dark and dingy flat is transformed into a light and airy space. Take a look at the beautiful period features, and discover tips and advice for combining modern and vintage details to create a stunning home.

1930's Terraced Period House

This one bedroom flat is on the ground floor of a 1930's pre-war terraced house. The flat had been rented out and, for many years, Sandra the owner dreamed of renovating and modernising. Sandra realised that she could utilise the space better and create another bedroom with little construction. With a budget in place, a builder was found who could do the whole job.

"I had always dreamed of renovating it, as it has so many wonderful features."

✅Tip: There are many ways to approach a renovation, but finding a builder who can co-ordinate the entire renovation will take away the headache of having to project manage different tradespeople. It can also help with the timeframe - instead of waiting for independent tradespeople to be available, Sandra was able to get the whole project done in 3 months! ✅

Period Property Features

The flat had many period features that Sandra wanted to either repair, restore or replace. Unfortunately, some of the architraving and the original fireplace in the sitting room had been ripped over the years, but the rest were luckily intact.

Beautiful bay window - the wow feature of the flat, and only needed some TLC and a coat of paint to restore it back to its former glory. See below for further details of the window transformation.

Statement Fireplace - although the original fireplace in the sitting room had long gone, the fireplace in the bedroom had period charm and Sandra decided to keep this one and repaint it. The simple white palette gives the room a modern edge while allowing the period design to add character to the room.

Vintage Stained Glass & Panelled Doors - The panelled doors are real gems, especially the door with the striking stained glass window. The 1930s art deco stained glass is one of Sandra's favourite features too.

✅ Tip: Retain as many period features as you can but don't be afraid to replace something that isn't working. Mix old with new. ✅

Vintage Rim Locks

The original panelled doors had old rim locks that had been painted over many times and needed replacing. Sandra had always wanted a house with rim locks, as they reminded her of her grandfather's house and it was crucial to find the right design. The rim locks and door knobs needed to compliment the stained glass and echo the original rim locks, while fitting in with the monochrome colour scheme. After doing a simple google search for Rim Locks, Sandra found Suffolk Latch Company and fell in love with our classic Victorian style rim locks.

"I got so excited and started filling my basket with locks and handles. I was like a child in a sweet shop! The contrast of the cast iron fittings against the stark white is stunning, and everyone who comes in asks me where I got them. I can't believe my luck as it's turned out exactly as I imagined!"

Renovating Period Windows

The main feature of the flat is the stunning bay window in the sitting room. However, it was in desperate need of some TLC and new window furniture to bring it back to its former glory. The windows had been painted shut and the room was dark. During the paint stripping process, a few of the window panes were broken and needed replacing, but otherwise it was a straightforward job.

Sandra chose the classic design of the cast iron black pear drop window furniture to replace the old window latches. She is absolutely delighted with the result and this is her favourite place in the flat. The light streams in through the bay window and the makeover has transformed the whole room.

"My mother once described the flat as dark and dingy and she can't believe the transformation now!"

Monochrome Palette

A monochrome colour scheme is timeless and works really well in the flat. The white walls and doors really help to accentuate the light and airy feel. Sandra chose monochrome for the basis of her choices because she loves the contrast of black against white, especially the black door and window furniture against the white doors and paintwork.

"Keeping the base colours simple meant I can add all the colour I want when trends change."

✅ Tip: Choose monochrome for a base colour scheme and use coloured cushions, framed prints, and accessories to tie in with any changing trends ✅

Making Space

The flat originally had one double bedroom, but at the back of the property, there was a wasted utility area where Sandra saw the potential to reconfigure for an additional single bedroom.

The back door, which orginally led from the utility space to the garden, was blocked up and a wall was put in to create a new shower room. The bathroom was then turned into a single second bedroom. A new back door was put into the kitchen, replacing the old window. To retain as much light as possible, Sandra chose a glazed stable door, which is ideal for the summer months, allowing light and air into the kitchen, while being safe for young children and pets.

The understairs space was also converted during this reconfiguration, and the old telephone cupboard was turned into a cloakroom.

✅ Tip: A minor change of internal space can create extra rooms and possibly add value to your property. This can be done DIY but it is wise to hire a professional to tackle the job in case of any hidden complications. ✅

"I was so glad I did hire a builder because once we took away the woodchip wallpaper, all of the walls needed replastering. Also, when we took out the old bathroom, to make it into the second bedroom, we found the walls and ceiling needed insulating."

Easy Garden Transformation

The garden was in desperate need of some TLC and had old, broken fencing and an overgrown lawn. If you are working to a tight budget, sometimes it is best to keep things simple. Replacement fencing and the new laid lawn have given the garden a new lease of life. With the basics now covered, Sandra can inject character and colour with some well placed accessories and a variety of plant pots.

✅ Tip: Look for bargains and unusual plant pots in antique stores and markets. Ring the changes by using different coloured annual flowers such as petunias, marigolds, black eyed susans and the pretty white flowers of bacopa. ✅

1930's Renovation: It's All In The Detail

Accessories and small details can make all the difference when you are planning a renovation. In this 1930s flat, Sandra has carefully chosen kitchen and bathroom accessories, cabinet knobs and to give a designer feel to the interior.

A big thank you to Sandra for letting us take a tour of her beautiful home. If you would like to be kept updated on any further news for this 1930's flat, give Sandra a follow on Instagram @1930s_renovation