Period home kitchen renovation tips offered

It can be difficult to remodel a kitchen in a period home to suit the needs of today's modern families, but it can be done, according to one expert.

Speaking to the December issue of Period Living magazine, Douglas Kent from the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings said it is important to work with the property, not against it.

He acknowledged that since kitchens built before the 20th century were primarily used for cooking and little else, they often leave a lot to be desired.

However, he advised against making major structural changes, such as removing windows, changing plumbing routes or creating new doorways.

Instead of becoming frustrated when an off-the-shelf kitchen won't fit, he suggested that period homeowners go for a bespoke kitchen design instead.

"Installing a kitchen tailored exactly to your requirements improves storage and functionality and allows you to add touches of individuality," Mr Kent remarked.

And he insisted that just because the home is a period one, doesn't mean the kitchen has to be.

"An ultra modern design can often look just as stunning in an old home as a traditional one," he claimed.