There’s something extra special about a period property restored to its former glory. If you’re the proud owner of a heritage home, you may be wondering how to match the interior decoration to the charming exterior you first fell in love with.
Jonathan Hateley from Barrington Decorators has brought life to several different properties and features. He shares everything we need to know about decorating a period property.
What interior style are you going to follow?
Before you even think about painting the walls of your house, you need to consider what style you're opting for. Just because your house is old, doesn't mean you can't embrace modern designs, but it would be a shame to remove its unique features.
"To decorate your house in the style of the time it was built in, it's handy to know the difference between an Edwardian and Georgian property. Spend some time getting to know your home and its history and use the information to inspire your design," Jonathan says.
Restoration
"Period properties are naturally difficult to work on - you often feel like you're walking into the unknown," explains Jonathan.
Your period property will most likely require some restoration work to be undertaken. Jonathan and the team at Barrington Decorators are very experienced in restorative work and can give your old home a new lease of life without losing its vintage charm.
Maintaining the historical features
Have you ever marveled at how an old building has maintained its historical features? What if it was possible that those features were merely an effect? Highly advanced period decorators like Jonathan can create the illusion of an older, characterful room using paint and special effects. It's worth taking advantage of this if you want an authentic interior.
"When asked to make a drawing room look like an old gentleman's lounge, we painted the walls in a subtle two-tone effect, covered them in wax to give it a sheen, and the finished result was an aged, vintage interior - just what the customer wanted!" Jonathan says.
"Overtime I've developed my special effects skills and now have a unique style. This kind of decorating is very personal and requires decorators to apply a fair amount of artistic flair."
"We are one of the only companies in the UK that hold the skills to offer this kind of service."
Barrington Decorators is a family-run business and the team have roots in the decorating and building industry dating back to 1967.
Their services include interior decoration, kitchen and furniture finishes, restoration and repair services, exterior painting and repairs and decorative artist and effect work. They provide their services for both residential and commercial projects, and work with modern and period properties.
Go to www.barringtondecorators.com for more information.
Call them on 01242 460104, email info@barringtondecorators.com or visit them at their workshop in Cheltenham at Barrington Decorators Ltd, Withytree Farm, Broadway Road, Winchcombe, Cheltenham GL54 5NT.
