Could you define what Edinburgh period property is? Of course, we hear you say! Well actually we’ve found everyone has their own version of what period property really is, so we thought we’d do a bit of research and set the record straight.
So here it is, this blog will define what period property is, look at the different types of Edinburgh period property and help you see what makes them special. With the basics out of the way, we then take a look at more practical aspects of Edinburgh period property living. What can you expect from a house that is a few hundred years old? Read on to learn more.
What is meant by the term Period Property?
The term period property simply refers to houses and villas that were built during a certain period of time. Even though there is no hard and fast definition, in most UK cities we are referring to houses that were built before World War One. Edinburgh is a little different. When it comes to Edinburgh period property, we normally consider anything built before the beginning of World War Two in 1939 as period property. The Scottish capital boasts plenty of them.
In Britain, period properties are divided into Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian buildings. These periods were named after the reigning monarchs at the time. Each is known for its distinct architectural features. Once you know what these features are, it becomes easy to recognize the differences between these outstanding dream properties.
How to Recognise Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian Homes
Being able to tell period property apart makes hunting for your dream home so much more enjoyable. Looking at a home, you will not only be able to tell whether you like it or not, but you will also start to recognize those all-important period features. Here is a closer look at each period.
1. Recognising Georgian Homes
Out of the three periods, Georgian homes date back furthest. When architects and property experts talk about Georgian homes, they mean anything that was built between 1714 and 1830. During that time, Britain had four King Georges in a row. This succession gave the period its name. One of the best-known examples of Georgian architecture is the home of the British Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street.
In Edinburgh, we associate Georgian architecture with the New Town. The New Town is one of the earliest examples of planned city development. As Edinburgh’s elites no longer wished to live in the overcrowded Old Town, new options were needed, and the idea of the New Town was born.
Today, you can recognise Georgian architecture not only by its year of construction which is generally between 1767 and 1830 in Edinburgh. Georgian buildings have distinctive period features both on the outside and the inside.
Walking through the New Town, it’s easy to become spellbound by the sheer grandeur of the Georgian mansions’ symmetrical frontages. Many have a so-called fanlight window above their main entrance. Their roofs are often relatively shallow and hidden from view behind a parapet.
Inside, expect to see intricate ceiling roses and plasterwork. Leading Georgian homes featured floor-to-ceiling wall panelling divided into three horizontal sections. Well-off Georgian families would often choose to paint their walls in lighter shades such as lavender and pink, whereas darker, more expensive shades were reserved for coverings and skirting boards. Some of these features may still be preserved.
2. Recognising Victorian Homes
The Victorian era covers much of the 19th century, lasting from 1837 to 1901. Throughout the UK, this was a time of major change, including the industrial revolution. Those upheavals are also reflected in the city’s different architectural styles, especially as Edinburgh sat at the centre of some of those developments. Whilst the city hosted visits by King George IV and Queen Victoria, it was also an important location of the religious disruption of 1843.
Victorian architecture began where Georgian architecture left off, featuring columns and panelled walls. However, Victorian properties can easily be distinguished by their Renaissance and Gothic revival influences.
Look out for pointed windows, roof gables and dormers when visiting a Victorian property. Porches are another common feature. As the century progressed, the changes in society became noticeable in Edinburgh’s architecture. Early Victorian properties tend to have more complex designs, including bay windows. Buildings constructed later are often simpler and feature more glass and iron, new materials at the time.
Generally speaking, the Victorian age coincided with the high point of the British Empire. As a result, Victorians had the money for extravagant decorations such as floral wallpapers and exotic ornaments. Victorian houses can be found in areas of Edinburgh that were developed after the New Town. Consider Morningside and Bruntsfield, for example, if you’re looking specifically for a Victorian home.
3. Recognising Edwardian Homes
Out of all three periods, the Edwardian period is the shortest. Starting in 1901, it lasted longer than the reign of King Edward VII, with most experts agreeing that it ended during the first World War.
At this time, the British population increased rapidly, and cities extended into the villages surrounding them, effectively creating suburbs. These locations gave the Edwardians the space they desired for their homes.
Speaking of space, many Edwardian properties were built on larger plots, often surrounded by leafy landscaping. Still, they tend to be shorter than their Victorian counterparts because residents required fewer servants. From the outside, expect to see Dutch gables and sash windows.
Inside, the Edwardians favoured large welcome halls and simpler furnishings. These are also the first homes that may have been built with light fittings on the walls. With luck, some of those fittings may still be visible. Check some of Edinburgh’s favourite suburbs, such as Portobello and Duddingston, for Edwardian architecture.
What Makes Period Property so Desirable?
So far, we have really only talked about houses. But when it comes to Edinburgh period property, buyers have more choices than that. First, if you are looking for a home in the OId Town, you may well be looking at an apartment with a history that is older than Georgian architecture such as in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket area. Second, many of the New Town’s Georgian mansions as well as larger Victorian and Edwardian properties have not only been extremely well preserved but they’ve also been divided into smaller units. That makes them highly accessible for couples and smaller families.
Put simply, when it comes to Edinburgh period property, you’ll be spoilt for choice between periods, types of property, and areas of the city. With so much choice, what does make period property so desirable? It’s the link to our heritage, the beautiful architectural style and workmanship, but above all it’s the limited supply.
There is simply a finite number of period properties available, and let’s be honest, they don’t build them like that anymore. That may be a bit of a cliché, but it’s true. From a seller’s perspective, that’s good news because these properties will always be in demand. Still, it takes a marketing-focused approach to find the best possible buyer for your period property.
Buyers may find that it can take some time to find the perfect period home. That is where we can help. We work closely with buyers to understand your needs and find that perfect home. And our selling clients can rest assured that we will be highlighting all the very best features and history behind your period property, as we know this is what sells such unique buildings.
What is it Like to Own and Live in a Piece of History?
If you love period property, then you’ll enjoy living in a building that has seen generations pass through. Looking at some of the original features will conjure up images of times past and add to the atmosphere of the property.
With all that said, there are a few realities to consider. Expect to see some wear on the external stonework, for example. After all, some of these properties have stood here for a few centuries. Walls may have the odd crack, and it is not uncommon for a bit of a draught to get in through the windows and roof spaces.
As period property lovers ourselves, we believe that there is no better home than one with history and character. And there is no better place than Edinburgh to find that home.
