Image sourcePeriod homes are undoubtedly beautiful, but if you live in one, chances are you don’t want to be stuck in whatever decade your home was built. Sure, it’s nice to keep those rustic beams and those original floors that are one-of-a-kind, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo all mod-cons in your property. No, now is the perfect time to pull your period home into the 21st Century and here are some very simple ways you can do just that without completely ruining the aesthetic of your older property:
Invest in a Wireless Thermostat
If you want to add some 21st Century tech to your home, take a look at The Smart Future, which has an excellent guide to doing so, but be sure to start with a wireless thermostat. Why? Because the average period home isn’t exactly as warm and efficient as the average newly built property, although there are exceptions, Not only that but a smart thermostat like those in the Nest range, is discrete (it can be placed anywhere you like – even in a cupboard), which is good for keeping your property’s character, and will allow you to automate the process of keeping your home optimally warm.
Make Your Lights Wireless
If you hate having to go around your property turning lights on and off, then join the 21st Century and instal;l smart bulbs which can be controlled remotely using your smartphone. Once they’re installed., not only will you be able to turn them in and off without moving from your chair, but you’ll be able to control their brightness too.
Use Retro-Style Appliances
Image sourceFrom the classic Smeg Fridge, which harks back to 1950s kitchens to the classic KitchenAid, which wouldn’t look out of place in a big 1920s property, there are numerous appliances, which although they are completely new and have all the functionality you’d expect in the 21st Century, look like they’re from another time., Choose these over less stylized appliances for a home that works well for you now without losing its character.
Customized Cabinets
Customized cabinets are a godsend for the period property owner who wants to bring their home into the 21st century without ruining its atmosphere. Why? Because they allow you to have modern TVs, Sound systems, games consoles and anything else that you might be interested in having, while hiding them inside/behind furniture which fits with the period feel of the rest of the home. All you need is a good carpenter to help you achieve this. It probably won’t be cheap, but if you like your mod-cons and you love your home’s older atmosphere, they are the best way to get a compromise.
Add Some Color
Image sourceA lot of people who have period homes decorate them in pretty neutral colors, not realizing that many properties in the past were much more colorful than the average property today, So, by adding a tasteful splash or two of color to the walls or furniture, you will actually give it a more modern feel and honor its past too! Just check old magazines and books to see what kinds of colors would have been used when your home was built.
