4 Victorian House Extension Ideas to Inspire You
When it comes to blending traditional and contemporary design elements, Victorian house extension designs offer a wealth of opportunity. With their ornate details, high ceilings, and large windows, these homes have an inherent charm that few modern properties can match. In this article, we’ll explore some stunning Victorian house extension ideas that are sure to inspire your next renovation project.
Common Victorian Architecture Characteristics
Before jumping into home extension ideas, it’s worthwhile to understand some of the key characteristics of Victorian architecture. These properties typically showcase intricate woodwork, decorative trim, and eye-catching detailing. Patterned tiles, stained glass windows, and striking color palettes are also commonly featured in these homes. To create a harmonious blend of old and new, it’s important to incorporate these Victorian elements in your extension design.
Victorian House Extension Ideas
Extension Idea 1: Supplement with a Glass Extension
In order to preserve the authentic charm of your Victorian home, consider adding a glass extension that showcases a striking contrast between traditional and contemporary design. A glass box extension would enable you to enjoy your garden’s view all year round, providing a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors. Additionally, incorporating ample numbers of windows and large, frameless sliding doors would flood the interior with natural light.
Extension Idea 2: Add a Side Return
Many Victorian homes feature a narrow strip of garden running along the side of the house. By extending your property into this space with a side return extension, you’ll increase the usable ground floor space and create a more practical layout. With the right design inspiration, this kind of extension can drastically improve the functionality of your living area and create a more spacious, open-plan environment.
Extension Idea 3: Loft Conversions
One of the most popular ways to extend a Victorian house is by converting the loft space into a functional living area. Victorian properties often boast high roof lines and ample attic space, perfect for conversion into a bedroom, bathroom, or even a small lounge. When designed thoughtfully, a loft conversion can integrate seamlessly with the existing architecture and provide an additional space that feels like it has always been a part of the house.
Extension Idea 4: Merge the Indoors and Outdoors
Creating an indoor-outdoor flow can be especially appealing for Victorian house extension projects. By incorporating bi-fold doors that connect the rear extension to the garden, you’ll create a cohesive space for entertaining or just enjoying the outdoors. A sheltered outdoor veranda or terrace can also amplify the sense of space and bring the outside in.
How to Know When to Extend?
Whether you’re looking to add more living space or modernize your Victorian home, certain signs suggest it might be time to consider an extension. If you’re running out of storage, your house is cramped or dark, or you want to improve the energy efficiency of your property, these are all signs that extending may be the best option.
To learn more about the roles in the design process, check out this illuminating article on architect vs. engineer to understand the responsibilities and how they fit into the broader project planning process. By making sure to involve the right professionals in your renovation project, you’ll be able to achieve your desired outcome without any unnecessary hiccups.
To Sum Up
Extending a Victorian house can be a daunting task, but with the right inspiration and attention to detail, it’s possible to create a stunning and harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary design elements. If you’re considering extending your Victorian home, consult with professionals for designing architecture in Asheville who specialize in blending architectural styles and be inspired by their expertise. This way, you can be sure your extension project achieves the look and feel you desire. Good luck!
