A Period Home of Your Dreams

Decision, decisions, decisions...

If you're planning a move to the country and have the flexibility of picking your type of property, do you go for mellow timbers of Tudor? The decorative detail of Georgian perhaps? Maybe the solidity and modern conveniences of Victorian? Or why not the traditional methods and styles of Edwardian?

Each period has a certain style that will appeal to us over others, so read our guide to help you narrow the search for your dream home.

Tudor (1485-1603)
Characterised by their classic black and white woodwork, Tudor buildings are the earliest to survive in any significant quantity as dwellings.

Pros
Chocolate-box charm.
Cosy, quirky interiors.
Plenty of mellow timbers.
Small windows and timber construction retain heat in winter.

Cons
Small windows and ubiquitous woodwork can make interiors appear gloomy.
Rooms tend to be on the small side and haphazardly laid out.
There is often no corridor to speak of upstairs - bedrooms lead from one to another.
Bathrooms have to be cunningly inserted.
Tall occupants risk regular knocks on low beams and doorways.

Georgian (1714-1820)
Probably the most sought-after of all country properties, the Georgian period boost elegant exteriors with spacious rooms and high ceilings.

Pros
Unrivaled elegance.
Rational layout.
Fine fittings and decorative detail.

Cons
Modern lack of servants to run the house.
Large windows and doors to lose heat.

Victorian (1837-1901)
Following on from the grace of the Georgian period, Victorian architecture followed, bringing quality workmanship, family-oriented design, with a delightful excess of materials.

Pros
Solidly built.
A great range of styles and sizes.
Modern conveniences in a period setting.
Well proportioned.

Cons
Architecturally awkward, according to some peoples' taste.
Rigidly compartmentalised between 'upstairs' and 'downstairs'.
Often high-maintenance, with numerous individual offices and external decoration.

Edwardian (1901-1910)

Designed with all the mod cons, Edwardian houses are considered by many to be the ideal dwelling, displaying quality workmanship with modern conveniences.

Pros
Planned with modern conveniences in mind.
High-quality construction.
Delightful detailing.
Use of traditional methods and styles.

Cons
Kitchens tend to be on the small side.