How to renovate an old house: tips, where to start and key aspects

Renovating old houses not only allows you to preserve the architectural heritage, it also offers the opportunity to live in a space with unique character and personality.

These homes often feature architectural details not found in modern construction, such as elaborate moldings, high ceilings, and hardwood floors. Additionally, rehabilitating an older home can be a worthwhile investment, as restored properties often increase in value.

Before embarking on renovating an old house, there are several factors you’ll need to consider to ensure the success of the project:

Assess the structural integrity of the house and hire a professional to conduct a detailed inspection to determine if there is damage to the foundation, roof or walls.

Research local regulations and necessary permits. Some areas have specific regulations for renovating old houses that must be followed.

Set a realistic budget. Renovating an old house can involve unexpected costs, and for this very reason, it’s essential to have a safety margin in your budget.

Think about how you want the final design of the house to be. Consider the layout of the spaces, their functionality and how modern facilities will be integrated.

In parallel, consider the possibility of incorporating sustainable solutions such as efficient insulation, renewable energy systems and eco-friendly materials.

The process of renovating an old house can seem overwhelming at first, yes. For this reason, here are some initial steps to get you started in an orderly manner:

1. Initial Assessment: Conduct a detailed assessment of the current condition of the house. This includes the structure, electrical and plumbing installations, and architectural elements.
2. Consult with professionals: Hire architects, engineers, and builders with experience in renovating old houses. At Coblonal we have a team specialized in residential and commercial interior design, and in home renovation.
3. Planning and Design: Work with your team to develop a detailed plan that includes the design, budget, and project schedule.
4. Obtain Permits: Make sure to obtain all necessary permits before beginning work.

The first step is to dismantle and demolish the areas that need to be replaced or renovated. This may include removing non-structural walls, damaged floors, or roofs in poor condition.

Make all necessary structural repairs, from reinforcing the foundation, repairing or replacing the roof, to ensuring that the walls are in good condition. Doing so will be essential to ensure safety inside the home.

Install or update the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installations. Make sure they meet modern efficiency and safety standards.

Improve the insulation of the house to increase its energy efficiency. Consider using double-glazed windows, insulating walls and ceilings, and incorporating renewable energy systems.

Restore and preserve the original architectural elements that give character to the house, such as moldings, old doors, wooden floors and railings.

At Coblonal, both in our residential and commercial interior design projects, we like and try to maintain and preserve the essence and character of the spaces we redesign. This is a premise that we always apply and can be seen reflected in all our projects: paying homage to the unique seal of each home, ensuring that each historical architectural detail is preserved and highlighted.

Finally, complete the interior finishes. And doing so includes painting, installing new floors and placing accessories and furniture. Work with an interior designer to ensure that the decoration is coherent and attractive.

Renovating an old house is a project that requires dedication and experience. At Coblonal, we offer a comprehensive approach that spans from planning and design to execution and completion of the project. Our team of professionals is trained to address each stage of the process, ensuring that every detail is treated with the utmost attention and care.

Whether you are restoring a historic family home or transforming an old property into a modern and functional space, Coblonal has the experience and knowledge to make your vision a reality. Get in touch with our studio, and find out how we can help you turn your old house into a welcoming and lively home.

In short, renovating an old house is a complex task but, once the process is complete, it is rewarding. With proper planning and the right professional team, you can transform an old property into a modern and functional home without sacrificing its original charm and identity.

And, at Coblonal, we are committed to helping you every step of the way, ensuring that your renovation project is a resounding success. Explore our residential interior design solutions and discover how we can bring the restoration, renovation and design of your new home to life.

We help you find the best option for your home thanks to our more than 40 years of experience creating unique, welcoming and characterful spaces. Contact us and we will help you restore your home! Follow us on our social networks for more ideas and inspiration!