11 Tips for Your Property Renovation

If you’re thinking about taking the plunge and making this year the one to start that dream renovation project, then these tips might come in handy.

We’d love to hear your own renovation tips. Whether you are mid project or basking in renovation success, we want you to share design advice, material recommendations or top tips to make the process as stress free as possible. What was crucial to your renovation success and is there anything that you would have done differently?

Let us know by commenting below or sharing your advice on our social media pages using @fromtheanvil

Here's our 11 top tips for your next renovation...

1.) Stay True

Perhaps the golden rule with any conversion is; stay true to the building. Keep this rule in mind throughout the entire design process to maintain your building’s integrity and preserve its character.

2.) Preservation

Preserve as many original features as practically possible.

Above: our Pewter Avon Lever Espag. Lock Set at Hinton Manor.

3.) Find Inspiration

Get inspired by your surroundings. Use authentic materials that complement the local landscape.

Above: external view of The Great Barn.

4.) Create Contrast

Try using contrasting materials for all new structures to create a clear distinction between old and new.

Above: Pewter Handmade Peardrop Fasteners and Pewter Avon Lever Latch Set.

5.) Timbers

The main charm of a barn conversion is often the irregularity of the roof shape. Maintain as many of the original timbers as practically possible.

Above: our Black Straight Lever Lock Set featured in Tigbourne Farm. Discover the full case study here.

6.) Establish Essentials

Reduce stress by making a clear distinction between wants and needs. With so many ideas, trends and materials available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Gain control of your renovation by writing a short list of must haves to focus on. By establishing a strict line between the two, you won’t get side-tracked by tasks that don’t really matter in the long run.

Above: Black Handmade Peardrop Stays and Black Handmade Peardrop Fasteners in the Cruck Barn.

7.) Heating

Consider underfloor heating for barn conversions. The radiant warmth it produces can provide a more even climate in an open-plan, vaulted space that is common in most barns.

Above: Black Penny End T Hinges, Black Bean Thumblatches, Black Shepherd's Crook Stays, and Black Shepherd's Crook Fasteners.

8.) Opt for Quality

Don’t compromise your long-term home by scrimping at the building stage. Good quality, well designed windows are important aesthetically and can save on heating bills.

Above: an exterior shot of a 17th Century thatched cottage in the Cotswolds.

9.) Keep it Bright

Decorate large, vaulted ceilings and exposed beams in light colours to maximize the sense of height and space.

Above: our Large Avon Lever Lock Set showcased in Friars Court.

10.) Let in the Light

Old buildings often have small windows. Introduce more light with added glazing. Replace barn doors with large sliding, French or bi-folding doors. Rooflights can also be a useful addition.

Above: a pair of Pewter Avon Lever Espag. Lock Sets displayed at The Great Hall.

11.) Plan Ahead

Plan ahead. Think about important decisions such as ironmongery when choosing your windows and doors to achieve a cohesive look throughout. Many people don’t realise that windows, doors and kitchens can be purchased without ironmongery, which can be sourced afterwards. Good quality ironmongery can totally transform the interior style, feel and function of any property.