Hampstead Renovations

Introduction to Art Deco Property Renovation

Art Deco properties, built primarily between 1925 and 1939, represent one of London's most distinctive architectural periods. These homes feature geometric designs, streamlined curves, elegant detailing, and innovative materials that were revolutionary for their time. Renovating an Art Deco property requires balancing period authenticity with modern functionality while preserving the unique characteristics that make these buildings architecturally significant.

At Hampstead Renovations , we specialise in sympathetic Art Deco renovations across London, bringing decades of experience in heritage property restoration. Our expert team understands the unique construction methods, materials, and design principles of the Art Deco period, ensuring your renovation enhances both the property's value and its historical integrity.

Understanding Art Deco Architecture

Key Architectural Features

Art Deco properties in London typically feature:

• Geometric patterns: Zigzags, chevrons, stepped forms, and sunburst motifs
• Streamlined curves: Rounded corners, curved bay windows, and flowing lines
• Decorative elements: Chrome fittings, glass blocks, ornamental metalwork
• Innovative materials: Steel-framed windows, vitrolite panels, terrazzo flooring
• Horizontal emphasis: Banding, ribbon windows, and horizontal design elements
• Flat roofs: Often with parapets and decorative coping
• Distinctive entrances: Recessed doorways, porticos, and elabourate entrance halls

Common Construction Methods

Art Deco homes were built using various techniques:

• Cavity wall construction with rendered finishes
• Concrete frame construction in larger developments
• Steel-framed Crittall windows (a period hallmark)
• Reinforced concrete flat roofs with bitumen waterproofing
• Streamlined internal layouts with flowing spaces

Planning Your Art Deco Renovation

Conservation Considerations

Many Art Deco properties are located in conservation areas or have protected status:

• Conservation area consent: Required for external alterations
• Listed building consent: Necessary if the property is listed
• Article 4 directions: May restrict certain works
• Design guidelines: Local authorities often have specific requirements
• Materials approval: Original or sympathetic materials must be used

Assessment and Survey

Before starting renovation work, we conduct comprehensive surveys:

• Structural condition assessment of flat roofs and concrete elements
• Evaluation of original features worth preserving
• Windows and doors condition analysis (especially Crittall windows)
• Damp investigation (common in rendered properties)
• Electrical and plumbing systems review
• Thermal performance evaluation
• Asbestos survey (essential for properties of this period)

Exterior Renovation

Facade Restoration

Art Deco facades require specialist attention:

• Render repair: Matching original lime or cement renders, repairing cracks
• Decorative elements: Restoring geometric reliefs, sunburst motifs, and banding
• Colour schemes: Researching period-appropriate colours (creams, pastels, bold accents)
• Cleaning: Gentle cleaning of rendered surfaces without damage
• Protective coatings: Breathable sealants to protect renders

Windows and Doors

Original windows are crucial to Art Deco character:

• Crittall window restoration: Specialist repair or sympathetic replacement
• Curved bay windows: Maintaining geometric or streamlined curves
• Glazing: Slim profile double glazing or secondary glazing solutions
• Entrance doors: Restoring or replicating period doors with geometric panels
• Chrome fittings: Sourcing authentic Art Deco hardware
• Thermal performance: Improving efficiency while maintaining appearance

Roofing Works

Flat roofs are characteristic but can be problematic:

• Modern waterproofing systems replacing failed bitumen
• Improved insulation meeting current Building Regulations
• Parapet and coping restoration
• Drainage improvements to prevent ponding
• Retention of roof terraces where present

Interior Renovation

Entrance Halls and Staircases

Art Deco entrance areas are often spectacular:

• Terrazzo flooring: Professional restoration of original floors
• Staircases: Preserving geometric balustrades and handrails
• Wall finishes: Restoring decorative plasterwork and panels
• Lighting: Period-appropriate fixtures with modern efficiency
• Mirrors and glass: Maintaining decorative glazing elements

Living Spaces

Adapting rooms for modern living while preserving character:

• Open-plan configurations respecting original proportions
• Restoring picture rails, coving, and ceiling roses
• Fireplace restoration or sympathetic replacement
• Built-in furniture and storage solutions
• Parquet flooring repair and refinishing
• Period-appropriate colour schemes (pastels, bold geometrics)

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Modernising service rooms with Art Deco inspiration:

• Kitchen design: Streamlined units, geometric tiling, chrome accents
• Bathroom styling: Geometric tiles, curved sanitaryware, chrome fittings
• Colour palettes: Black and white, pastels, mint green, peach
• Materials: Glass blocks, terrazzo, vitrolite-style finishes
• Modern efficiency: Contemporary appliances in period-style casings

Modernisation and Building Systems

Thermal Efficiency

Improving insulation while maintaining aesthetics:

• Internal wall insulation with breathable systems
• Roof insulation upgrades during re-roofing
• Under-floor insulation where accessible
• Slim-profile double glazing or secondary glazing
• Draught-proofing of windows and doors

Heating and Ventilation

Discretely installed modern systems:

• Underfloor heating preserving decorative floors
• Discreet radiators or concealed systems
• Modern boilers located sensitively
• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
• Air conditioning in discrete locations

Electrical and Technology

• Complete rewiring with minimal surface disruption
• Period-style switches and sockets
• Integrated smart home systems
• Discreet AV and data cabling
• LED lighting in period fixtures

Common Issues in Art Deco Properties

Structural Concerns

• Flat roof failures: Original bitumen roofs often need replacement
• Concrete degradation: Carbonation and reinforcement corrosion
• Render defects: Cracking, debonding, moisture penetration
• Window frame failure: Corroded steel frames requiring replacement
• Damp issues: Rising damp, penetrating damp through renders

Material-Specific Problems

• Crittall window corrosion and paint failure
• Terrazzo floor damage or staining
• Parquet floor deterioration
• Decorative plaster damage
• Chrome fitting corrosion
• Asbestos presence in insulation and panels

Costs and Timelines

Budget Considerations

Art Deco renovation costs (London, 2024):

• Light renovation: £100,000-£200,000 (3-bed property)
  • Decorative refresh, minor repairs
  • Kitchen and bathroom updates
  • Essential maintenance works
• Standard renovation: £200,000-£400,000
  • Complete interior refurbishment
  • Window restoration or replacement
  • Roof replacement and insulation
  • Systems upgrades
• Comprehensive restoration: £400,000-£800,000+
  • Full structural repairs
  • Heritage feature restoration
  • Facade repairs and cleaning
  • Luxury finishes throughout

Project Timeline

Typical durations for Art Deco renovations:

• Planning and approvals: 3-6 months (conservation areas)
• Light renovation: 3-4 months
• Standard renovation: 6-9 months
• Comprehensive restoration: 12-18 months

Why Choose Hampstead Renovations for Your Art Deco Project?

Our expertise in Art Deco renovation includes:

• Period expertise: Deep understanding of 1930s construction and design
• Conservation experience: Successfully navigating listed building and conservation area requirements
• Specialist craftspeople: Network of artisans skilled in period restoration
• Materials knowledge: Access to authentic and sympathetic materials
• Modern integration: Seamlessly incorporating contemporary systems
• Project management: End-to-end coordination from planning to completion
• Quality assurance: Meticulous attention to detail and high standards

Case Studies

Hampstead Garden Suburb Art Deco Home

Complete renovation of a 4-bedroom Art Deco house including:

• Restoration of original Crittall windows throughout
• Flat roof replacement with modern insulation
• Terrazzo entrance hall restoration
• Period-inspired kitchen and bathrooms
• Facade render repair and repainting
• Timeline: 10 months | Budget: £450,000

Highgate Streamline Moderne Apartment

Luxury refurbishment of a 2-bedroom flat:

• Preserved curved bay windows and geometric details
• Custom Art Deco-inspired kitchen
• Restored parquet flooring
• Integrated smart home technology
• Timeline: 5 months | Budget: £180,000

Start Your Art Deco Renovation Journey

Ready to restore your Art Deco property to its former glory while adding modern comfort? Contact Hampstead Renovations today for a consultation.