How London Homeowners Are Elevating Classic Properties In 2023

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a luxury home in 2023, now could be the time. Despite cost of living challenges and recession looming, many property investors are still interested in high end properties and the luxury real estate market in London remains strong. Luxury homes are continuing to sell fast, and if you can combine the allure of a classic period home with modern luxuries, you could be in store for a bigger profit. 

During the pandemic, there was a dramatic increase in the number of high-end property owners moving away from the city in search of more open space in the countryside. But now this mass exodus has stalled and the demand for stunning properties has remained consistently high. If you’re looking to elevate an older home without compromising on luxury, here are a few ways to modernise classic properties for that perfect balance between old and new. 

Why elevate a classic home?

Modernising a classic home can bring a range of benefits, including increased functionality, improved energy efficiency, enhanced safety, increased property value and the preservation of historical features. By updating outdated building practices and materials, such as electrical wiring, plumbing and other systems, a classic home can become more suitable for modern living, resulting in a comfortable, functional, and sustainable living space. 

Additionally, modernisation can actually serve to highlight the historical features of a classic home, giving it a unique and timeless charm while increasing its property value. It offers a great opportunity to create a living space that meets current needs while preserving its historical value and character. It can also act as a selling point to outweigh the negatives of a property that could hold you back from selling in the future, such as a short lease. The following interior design choices are ways to upgrade a classic home into something special and distinctive on the London property market. 

Install a lap pool

London’s most luxurious properties have indoor swimming pools installed, but it’s a change you can make to upgrade your own classic home to make it more appealing to potential buyers or simply to enhance your living space. From indulgent plunge pools that give that spa feel to a home to current or endless pools which are perfect for fitness enthusiasts keen to improve stamina and fitness, a swimming pool is the ultimate luxury and instantly transforms a classic or more traditional home into something modern and opulent. Indoor pools are the best way to make use of a basement room that’s otherwise going to waste to create something truly desirable in the property market. 

Replace masonry with steel and glass

Steel and glass walls have become increasingly popular in recent years, giving a sleek and modern look to properties of all ages. From partition walls between a bedroom and en-suite to brightening up a living or dining room to give the illusion of more space, glass panels still give you that clear divide between areas of your home but are more contemporary than masonry walls and let more natural light in. Trends come and go but with something simple and elegant like glass and steel, you can be confident that the wall will remain in style and elegant for years to come. In particular, if you choose to replicate older style crittall windows with your steel frame, you can nod to the past while embracing the present. 

Embrace open spaces

One of the most effective ways to make your classic property feel more luxurious and inviting is by creating a feeling of open space. That might mean decluttering and taking a more minimalist approach, but it can also be achieved by extending your property to lengthen the kitchen or even by creating a whole new living space with a garage conversion. These projects are possible to achieve with a tighter budget if you’re clever about the design — just make sure you seek out professional advice and ensure that your renovations comply with the necessary building regulations. 

Revamp the heating

Heating can be a challenge in an older property, so if you’re looking to modernise, it can be a great place to start. Fireplaces are often a focal point in period homes but you don’t need to rip them out completely in order to put a contemporary spin on the space. In fact, simply upgrading them to a gas or electric alternative can be provide a contrast with the ornate surroundings while providing you with a more effective heating solution. Likewise, updating the radiators to ultra-modern flat panelled designs will instantly transform your home, make it more elegant and stylish, and ensure adequate heat output. 

Install surprising features

London’s homeowners know that when it comes to designing a standout property, you need to think outside the box. Extend your imagination, from installing lifts which make your property more accessible and will enhance your living experience later in life, to indoor spas for a hotel feel in your own home, or sophisticated bars that make entertaining a breeze. There are various ways you can elevate your home and make it functional and ideal for socialising. Get creative with your interior design and install those features or appliances you’ve always dreamed of having at your disposal to create a home that’s unique, interesting and a conversation starter. 

Classic homes have character and style in abundance, and it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. But there’s no reason why you need to feel like you’re living in the past just because you enjoy the history that comes with a period property. London has always been adept at striking the balance between retaining its history and embracing modernity, so why not achieve the same with your own home? London’s luxury homeowners are finding unique and interesting ways to put a contemporary stamp on their properties by adding modern touches that enhance the home rather than distract from the traditional features.