Restoring and Extending a Victorian Home: An Architect’s Guide

Victorian homes are an iconic part of the UK’s architectural landscape, and typically are the most popular properties for sale. That said, many have lost some of their original charm due to modern alterations (particularly in 1970s-1990s). Further to this, in our experience most Victorian homes are not actually suitable for 21st century lifestyles as they were designed for a completely different way of life. So whether you’re restoring period details, renovating for better functionality, or extending to create more space, careful planning is essential.

Due to the way these homes were constructed, they are extremely versatile buildings and can be easily adapted to modern standards and the individual tastes of their owners. Aesthetically they are also very versatile, with their simple palettes, so with the careful design anything can be achieved.

This guide explores how to approach each stage, ensuring your project aligns with UK planning regulations and architectural best practices to help you transform your Victorian house into your perfect home.

Restoring a Victorian Home to Its Original Glory

Ok, let’s start with restoration and respecting the age and value of these buildings. Restoring a Victorian property begins with understanding its original architectural details. These homes actually come in many different shapes, sizes and styles but there are typical typologies you see repeated. Many homes have had their period features stripped away over the years, but these can often be reinstated with careful research and sourcing. There are a few key aspects to look at if you want to restore the original character, but unless the building is listed, you may want to consider if they are really useful for you.

Plasterwork, including ceiling roses, cornicing, and intricate mouldings, was a defining feature of Victorian interiors. If these have been removed, specialists can recast and install them to restore the home’s grandeur.

Windows also play a crucial role in a Victorian home’s character. Original sash windows, often replaced with uPVC, can’t really be restored as single glazed and still meet insulation requirements, instead they can be upgraded with better quality double glazed sash windows to maintain their classic appearance.

Fireplaces, another hallmark of Victorian design, were once present in nearly every room are relatively easy to open up again.

Flooring is another area to consider. Stripping back carpets may reveal original pine floorboards, traditionally stained a rich mahogany. Where tiles have been lost, reclaimed Victorian tiles can be sourced to restore hallways and entrances. Other period details, such as deep skirting boards, dado rails, and heritage wallpaper, can help recreate the original aesthetic while maintaining a sense of authenticity.

Renovating a Victorian Home

Now that we have covered restoration it’s time to get to the fun bit. Although these homes are beautiful and an architectural symbol of the UK, I do believe that we glorify the Victorian era too much in this country. They were, for the most part, terrible builders, and many Victorian homes are in desperate need of fundamental work, that is a result of these homes being massed produced on a budget at the time.

Beyond aesthetics, Victorian homes often require structural and energy efficiency improvements. Many have outdated wiring and plumbing, so a full electrical rewire and modernised plumbing system are often necessary to meet current UK building regulations. Damp is another common issue, as these properties were built before modern damp-proofing methods. A professional survey can identify underlying moisture problems before refurbishment begins.

Finally, the layout in the less-renovated properties is often a problem. Many houses still have only one bathroom at the back of the property behind the kitchen, there is no open plan spaces and very little light entering the house.

Modifying the layout, upgrading insulation, glazing and heating systems can significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency. Installing underfloor insulation, upgrading the boiler, and draught-proofing doors and windows can all contribute to a more sustainable home. Most of these changes can be done without planning permission as they are internal as long as the building isn’t Listed. Working with an architect can ensure renovations comply with regulations while optimising space and functionality.

Extending a Victorian Home

Victorian homes, particularly in London, offer plenty of scope for extensions, whether it’s a rear extension, a side return, or a wraparound design. A single-storey rear extension is a popular option, often used to expand a kitchen or create an open-plan living space. Many of these projects fall under permitted development rights, but it’s always advisable to check local planning requirements.

A side return extension can transform a narrow kitchen into a spacious kitchen-diner by extending into the often-unused alleyway. This is a particularly effective option for London’s terraced homes, where space is at a premium. For those needing even more space, a wraparound extension combines a side and rear extension, creating a larger internal footprint. These projects often require full planning permission, especially in conservation areas.

Double-storey extensions can also add substantial value by increasing both ground-floor living space and upstairs accommodation. While some homeowners choose to contrast a modern extension with the original Victorian architecture, others opt for materials and details that seamlessly blend old and new.

Open Volume Studio Case Study

We were called in to review a project in South East London where the clients had recently acquired a beautiful Victorian home overlooking a park. The houses on the street had hardly been touched and frankly were falling apart. Mum was pregnant and they desperately needed to improve the house.

After a lengthy planning process including appeals, and a very difficult neighbour, we were forced to apply permitted development guidance to extend the house and the ground and at the loft to bring in two extra bedrooms, a bathroom, downstairs loo, utility room and to renovate the kitchen and whole rest of the house for the clients to enjoy. Our project was published by Real Homes Magazine as part of a guide on permitted development.

Structural investigations uncovered a mess, with a lack of foundations in places, cracks in walls, and rising damp, all elements that needed to be sorted, as well as removing the poor quality work of the 1970s adaptations.

The final project became Fishscale House, a beautiful and unique series of extensions and bring natural light deep into this Victorian home, playing with colour, material and openings to create a contemporary home inside this historic building.

Budgeting for Your Victorian Home Project

The cost of restoring, renovating, or extending a Victorian home varies widely depending on the scope of work. Extensive renovations, including structural changes, rewiring, and re-plumbing, can cost between £2,500-£3500 ex.VAT per square metre. More moderate refurbishments, such as layout improvements and energy efficiency upgrades, typically range from £1,500–£2,500 per square metre, while cosmetic updates like painting and flooring may cost between £1,000–£2,000 per square metre.

In London, where labour costs are higher, budgeting carefully is essential. Unforeseen structural issues can add to costs, so it’s always wise to set aside a contingency fund around 10-15% of your budget. Prioritising structural integrity before aesthetic enhancements ensures the longevity of your investment. As a final tip, don’t forget VAT. This adds 20% to the figures above and as it doesn’t go to your builder you will often find yourself discussing figures but talking at cross purposes. Generally, they will exclude VAT from their own calculations.

How an Architect Can Help You

Engaging an architect early in the process can make a significant difference, ensuring the project is both functional and compliant with UK planning and building regulations. Architects can navigate planning permission requirements, particularly in London’s conservation areas, and advise on the best layout solutions for modern living while respecting the home’s period character.

From concept to completion, architects play a crucial role in managing contractors, costs, structural engineers, and planning authorities, streamlining the entire process. Whether restoring, renovating, or extending your Victorian home, working with experts ensures a seamless transformation. If you want to understand more about an architect’s role and what they can do for you click here to read our client guides.

At Open Volume Studio, we specialise in period property refurbishments and extensions across London. Get in touch to discuss how we can bring your vision to life while preserving the timeless charm of your Victorian home.