FTBs still have "many options"

Period alterations to modern properties should be made with one eye on the environment, according to the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC).

With many Britons interested in such renovations, NHIC has said that homeowners should consider both the environment itself and the fact that the government will increasingly be focusing on making properties eco-friendly in the coming years.

The organisation also warned that homeowners who live in a conservation area are also likely to incur the wrath of planning authorities if they do not stick to strict guidelines on alterations.

"To include extra bits of period features, you need to consider perhaps energy efficient wood burning stoves, which will retain the same warm glow for you. If you've bought a period cottage which has a great big open fireplace, you might like to include a wood burning stove there," said NHIC consultant Andrew Leech.

"The government is hoping we'll all become energy efficient, and you can only do that by being careful about what you have in your house, what light fittings you install, what heating systems you have and what fireplaces you have as well," Mr Leech noted.

BuildStore’s National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon is simply a must see at whatever stage of self build, conversion or renovation you are!

© Adfero Ltd