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6 samples for $9Modernizing Victorian terraces is a fine art of appreciating old world ornate detailing and character whilst renovating to contemporary standards. A home which seamlessly blends period features of a Victorian property whilst reinvigorating with new elements is the perfect way to celebrate classic homes.
Elise and Sam’s Working On Walter project is one such project which successfully has infused classic detailing of their Victorian home with a magnificent modern home renovation. We spoke with Elise about their recent experience renovating this family home.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and Sam – do you have any renovating experience? Is your dream home or a flip reno?
A: This is our second house but first renovation. We both work in construction. Sam is a qualified Carpenter and Cabinet Maker and I am a Project Coordinator and have a background in Architecture and Interior Design. Our first house was a new build which I designed. We worked with a builder to build to lock up and fitted out the house ourselves. This house is our dream house for right now. We think this house will be our 5-10 year home.
Image Source: @working.on.walter
Q: What condition was the house before renovating – did you have to make any major structural changes?
A: Our house is over 100 years old and had last been renovated around the 60’s. The entire house had been covered in asbestos cladding and the interiors were ultra 60’s vibes (not in a good way!) We have re-stumped the house and moved some non structural walls so far. This year will see the back half of the house demolished and a 2 storey, modern extension built. The extension will consist of a new kitchen, butlers, laundry, living, dining & alfresco on the ground floor. Upstairs will have a second living, master bedroom, ensuite, WIR & balcony overlooking the backyard.
Image Source: @working.on.walter
Q: What style is the home now and what’s your favourite feature in it?
A: Our house is a Single Fronted Victorian Terrace house which we have restored with original features externally. Internally we have restored the wall paneling, ceiling roses, cornices, doors, skirtings & architraves but have used a modern colour palette for the finishes. Our favourite feature in the house is the bathroom. It’s ultra modern with beautiful skylights above the bath which really emphasise the height and floor to ceiling tiles. We have used wall paneling to reference the original features of the house and tie everything together.
Image Source: @working.on.walter
Q: What Elegance Store did you buy your tiles from?
A: Ascot Vale
Q: What tiles did you purchase?
A: England Silver Matt 600×1200. (We have also used the Conazzo Off White Matt in our Studio Bathroom)
Q: What do you love about the new space?
A: I love how large the tiles are and the skylights above the bath but I can’t go past the vanity and shaving cabinet which Sam made.
Image Source: @working.on.walter
Q: What colour grout was used?
A: Mapei Manhattan
Q: If you want to provide the details of your project manager (if you had one), tiler, plumber and any brands/companies you used for paint, vanities lighting etc (IG handle if you have)
A:
Project Manager & Design: Myself
Tiler: Sam
Paint: Dulux Natural White
Vanity & Shaving Cabinet: Made from American Oak timber by Sam
Stone: Stone Ambassador Sierra Leone
Fittings, Fixtures, Bath, Toilet: Highgrove Bathrooms
Shower Screen & Mirrors: Moreland Glass
Lights: Fat Shack Vintage & Beacon Lighting
Skylights: Velux
Q: What was the cost of the project?
A: Because we were able to do almost everything ourselves we were able to keep costs down. We only had to hire a plumber and electrician. We estimate it to cost us about $15,000 including our plumber & electrician.
Q: Finally if you have any other information i.e. how long the project was, the renovation experience, favourite part etc
A: We really enjoy renovating, making something beautiful again is really rewarding. It is something we hope to continue doing in the future for clients and our own projects. Our bathroom has taken around 3 months as most of the work is done after hours and on weekends. Sam will take time off work to build our extension this year and we are hoping that will take 6-8 months.
Thank you to Elise and Sam for taking the time to share their renovation experience! To see other photos of the before and after Victorian house renovation be sure to follow their period property journey on Instagram.
Inspired By This Victorian House Renovation And Ready To Start Your Next Project?
Working on you Victorian Period home, starting a new build or have another project in mind? Elegance Tiles has a wide range of tiles which can add character to traditional homes, elevate modern homes and create spaces you’ve always dreamed of. To start your tile journey find your closest store online or speak to us at enquiries@elegancetiles.com.au.
