Be inspired by contemporary living with timeless elegance

Older homes are beloved for their elegant proportions, original features and abundant charm. It’s one of the reasons they are so sought after. However, with small kitchens and impractical layouts, many period homes are not suited to our modern ways of living.

Thankfully, we can bring these gems into the modern age whether that’s by extending, adding outbuildings or remodelling. These three period homes, recently sold by Savills, all exude the grandeur of historical architecture while providing a practical and beautiful home for contemporary living.

Seamless layout and annexe space

Built circa 1630, Blanches Farmhouse in Bristol features abundant original details including beamed ceilings and an inglenook fireplace. Despite its period character, it has never been listed. This has enabled the current homeowners to reconfigure the space to create a family home that’s brimming with character. The new layout has been designed to ensure a seamless flow throughout the property combining open areas for entertaining, such as the farmhouse kitchen (complete with Aga and Belfast sink), with a series of independent ground floor reception rooms offering a more private, family space. An additional annexe increases the house’s versatility even further and includes two ensuite bedrooms, a fitted kitchen and two reception areas – all retaining the same period character as the main house.

Sophisticated kitchen design

Backing on to Regents Canal, this attractive five storey Georgian House was built in the early 19th century. With period features abound, crenellated balcones, mitred windows, original shutters and cornicing, this elegant home is full of character but has been adapted for modern living. An interior redesign has seen the kitchen combined with a dining and day room that leads directly into the patio and through to the rear garden via French doors. It also features a fabulous extensive wine cellar. The previous owners have restored the house throughout, transforming its layout and elevating it to the highest standards. 

Modern style in a Victorian home

From their neat frontages and sash windows to their generous rooms and high ceilings, Victorian homes never go out of style. This maisonette in the heart of tranquil De Beauvoir is one such property. Expertly refurbished and designed by interior designer Emilie Fournet, creative colour palettes have been combined with vintage furniture and clever architectural detailing to create a home that pairs timeless style with a contemporary flair. Entered from the raised ground floor you are greeted by a stunning double reception with dual aspect windows and period marble fireplace. A new Devol kitchen oozes heritage charm which is sensitively designed to capture the age of the property while still being perfect for entertaining. The kitchen leads into a modern addition of a glazed extension to create a bright and airy space.

Ecclesiastical charm

Dating back to the mid-17th century, the Grade-II listed Church Farm is awash with original features, ranging from the local stone construction and part thatched roof through to the large inglenook with former bread oven, stone mullioned windows, panelling, exposed timbers and much more. Pass through the chamfered arch doorway and you’ll be met with a home that combines a wealth of historic features with contemporary comforts. However, this home is not just a period gem; high-quality and sensitive renovations have seen the property updated to create a series of interconnecting reception spaces orientated around a centrally positioned kitchen/breakfast/family room and a light and airy reception hall. The integration of the barn further extends the living space, and is able to be utilised as a home office, extra income stream or a home for dependent relatives.