There’s something undeniably romantic about old homes. The soaring ceilings, the worn timber floors, the quirks that whisper of past lives. But when it comes to an old home renovation, those dreamy details often come hand in hand with unexpected surprises, heritage restrictions and structural challenges.
So, how do you honour the past while creating a home that works for the way you live now?
For Martine Cooper, principal designer and director of Martine Cooper Interior Design, the key is a sensitive approach. “It’s about adapting it for modern living – but doing so with care and intention,” she says. And yes, it’s possible to fall in love with your old house all over again.
Below, we dive into the rewards, realities, and renovation ideas that will help you restore a home with heart – and make it timeless for years to come.
Is it worth renovating an old house?
Renovating an old house can be equal parts thrilling and overwhelming. Original features like stained glass, ceiling roses and ornate cornices are beautiful – but they often come with hidden issues behind the walls. For Martine, the goal is balance: “The biggest challenge is updating the functionality of a space without losing its soul,” she says.
When done well, an old house renovation can result in a home with real depth – one that feels both elevated and emotionally rich. “The reward is watching a much-loved but tired home come back to life – one that celebrates its story while embracing how you live today.”
The cost of renovating an old house
Old homes are full of charm – and unknowns. From outdated wiring to uneven floors, surprises are part of the process. “Expect the unexpected,” says Martine. “A generous contingency is essential.”
Equally important is choosing the right team. “The right expertise early on can save a lot of time, money and grey hairs later.”
The slate roofline, period verandah tiling and columns were reinstated in this Federation restoration in Sydney. (Photography: Dave Wheeler / Styling: Corina Koch)
Where to start with an old house renovation
Before picking paint colours or choosing fixtures, step back. “Start by working through a clear design brief – one that aligns with how you live, what you love, and how the home makes you feel,” says Martine.
From there, she recommends three key things:
- Budget realistically for the unknowns.
- Bring in a team that understands both the emotional and structural value of older homes.
- Take your time – good design doesn’t rush and heritage homes deserve patience.
Old house renovation ideas that preserve charm
The trick to remodeling an old home is to reinterpret what’s already there. “It’s all about subtle connections,” explains Martine. “Use key elements from the existing home – think curves, lighting, hardware, stonework – and reinterpret them in the new design.”
Her go-to features to highlight?
- Stained glass windows.
- Ceiling roses and decorative cornices.
- Original skirting boards and hardware.
- Arched doorways or hallways.
“We always ask our clients what they fell in love with when they bought the home – then we do our best to hero those elements in the new design,” says Martine.
Grant support and council advice
If your home falls under a heritage overlay or local planning controls, the renovation process can get complex. Martine’s advice? “Find a team who knows the ropes.”
Start with an architect, builder or designer who regularly works in your area. “They’ll have a strong understanding of what’s possible and how to get things through council with minimal fuss. It’s often an upfront investment, but it can save you delays and costs down the track.”
Looking for financial support? Some local councils and state governments offer grants for renovating old houses – especially those with historic significance. It’s worth checking what’s available in your region.
Remodeling vs. restoring: What’s right for you?
Not every old house renovation needs to be a major overhaul. Sometimes, the smartest approach is restraint. Ask yourself: are you refreshing the surface or changing the structure?
- Restoring focuses on preserving original details and materials.
- Remodelling allows you to renovate and reimagine layouts, open up spaces or add extensions.
Either way, the goal is to create a seamless blend of old and new. “You can’t force it, and you definitely don’t want a ‘cut and paste’ result,” says Martine. “The best outcomes always come from working with a team who respect the heritage of the home while guiding you through the red tape.”
Embrace the journey
If you’re dreaming about renovating an old house, don’t just focus on the end result – enjoy the process. “Give it the time it deserves,” says Martine. “Surround yourself with people who get it – the process, the vision, the emotion – and you’ll enjoy the journey just as much as the final result.”
