Building Insider: Talking Landscape Design with Andrew Plant
Melbourne’s architectural landscape is filled with history, culture, and innovation. At Fortem Projects, we are passionate about preserving these gems by breathing new life into Melbourne’s heritage homes. Our commitment to restoration is rooted in a deep respect for the past, a keen eye for detail, and dedication to quality craftsmanship.
Restoring a heritage home is about more than just preserving a structure, it’s about safeguarding a cultural and historical identity. These homes are living connections to Melbourne’s past, offering a glimpse into the architectural styles, materials, and craftsmanship that have shaped our city.
By restoring a heritage home, you’re not only preserving a piece of history but also enhancing the character and value of the property. Heritage homes, when well-maintained, are highly sought after in the real estate market, as they offer a unique blend of history and modern living. Moreover, restoration contributes to the sustainability of our urban environment by reducing the need for new construction materials, minimising waste.
When it comes to heritage properties, homeowners often face the dilemma of whether to renovate or opt for a new build. Providing you don’t have a heritage overlay or council restrictions on your property you can consider a new build. Both options have their merits, but the decision ultimately depends on the condition of the existing structure, budget, and personal preference.
Renovating a heritage home allows you to retain the original charm and character while modernising the space to meet contemporary living standards. This approach respects the building’s historical significance and ensures that its unique features such as ornate plasterwork, leadlight windows, and period fireplaces, are preserved. Renovation can be more cost-effective than building new, especially when you consider the potential increase in property value that comes with updating a heritage home.
On the other hand, a new build can offer greater flexibility in terms of design and functionality. If the existing structure is beyond repair, or if you desire a more modern layout, building from scratch may be the best option. However, it’s still possible to honour the heritage of the area by incorporating traditional design elements into the new build. By blending old-world charm with modern construction techniques, you can create a home that pays homage to the past while still offering all the comforts of contemporary living.
At Fortem Projects, we believe that restoring heritage homes is not just a job, it’s a responsibility. Each project we undertake is approached with care, ensuring that every detail, no matter how small, is preserved or thoughtfully restored. We have the knowledge and expertise to use specialist trades to undertake particular heritage work, whether it may be tuckpointing or creating new ceiling roses using particular building methods, we specialise in this area. The result is a home that stands as a testament to Melbourne’s rich architectural history, while also serving the needs of modern families.
Restoration offers a unique opportunity to create something truly special—a home that tells a story and retains its character. It’s about embracing the imperfections that come with age and turning them into features that enhance the beauty and value of the property. By choosing restoration, you are making a commitment to preserve a piece of Melbourne’s heritage for future generations to enjoy.
If you’re considering breathing new life into a heritage home, or if you’re torn between renovating or building new, we’re here to help. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality while honouring the history that makes Melbourne’s heritage homes so special.
Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to discuss how we can help you restore, renovate, or build your dream home in Melbourne.
