How to renovate a Victorian home (without losing its soul)
Victorian homes are some of the most charming properties in the UK. But renovating them? That takes a bit of know-how.
Whether you're updating a terraced house in Hackney or revamping a grand double-fronted home in Clapham, here’s how to renovate a Victorian property with care, style, and smarts.
1. Start by understanding your home
Victorian houses were built between 1837 and 1901, during Queen Victoria’s reign. They often feature:
Solid brickwork
High ceilings
Original fireplaces
Sash windows
Ornate cornicing and ceiling roses
Each of these features adds character, as well as complexity. So before you jump in, get a clear idea of your home’s layout, structure and quirks. A 3D scan or measured survey is a good place to start.
2. Make it work for modern life
Victorian homes weren’t built for open-plan living, central heating or modern insulation. That doesn’t mean you have to rip out the charm. It just means being smart about layout and flow.
Think about:
Combining rooms to create more sociable kitchen-diners
Moving bathrooms upstairs
Adding clever storage in alcoves and under stairs
Don’t be afraid to rework the layout. Done right, you’ll unlock space and comfort without losing character.
3. Respect the details
Period features are what make Victorian homes special. So wherever possible, keep or restore them:
Sand back and repaint original cornicing
Repair or replace sash windows with like-for-like double glazing
Expose and seal original floorboards
And if a feature’s long gone? Don’t panic. There are brilliant suppliers who specialise in Victorian-style mouldings, fireplaces, doors and more.
4. Go green without compromise
Older homes are often draughty and inefficient. But there’s plenty you can do to improve energy performance without ruining the aesthetic:
Add insulation under floorboards and in the loft
Install slim-profile double glazing
Switch to low-energy lighting and appliances
Fit smart heating controls
At Beams, for example, we offer a free Home Energy Assessment with every full renovation — and we’ll give you personalised, costed green upgrade options too.
5. Work with people who get it
A Victorian renovation isn’t just a project. It’s a balancing act: keeping the magic, fixing what’s broken, and making it all work for modern life.
You need experienced designers, skilled builders, and a plan that keeps everything (and everyone) on track.
That’s what we do at Beams. We help homeowners all over London design and renovate homes that feel right for today — and look good for years to come.
Thinking of renovating your Victorian home?
If you want help renovating your Victorian home then look no further. Get your free estimate from us today and we’ll help you plan your renovation, find your perfect team, and make the whole thing feel easy.
