Post-war homes are a common feature of Brisbane’s suburbs, a result of the 1950s baby boom and a need for quick, affordable housing as soldiers returned from war.
Often built on sizable blocks of land in desirable parts of the city, post-war houses continue to be popular with buyers today despite their rather basic designs.
If you feel as though you may have outgrown your 1950s home, don’t rush to move – these houses have a great deal of potential and make the perfect renovation project.
What is a post-war home?
The change from austerity to prosperity following WWII showed in the increase in housing throughout Australia’s cities. While the homes were usually built on large blocks of land in desirable locations, a lack of building skills, materials and equipment demanded substance over style.
Post-war homes are characterised by their use of hardwood frames, roofing tiles and fibro wall lining, materials that were readily available at the time. The houses offered a comfortable, practical space for family living, often on a single storey with interconnecting living rooms.
While these homes offered a quick post-war fix, they no longer suit most modern lifestyles.
How do you know when it’s time to renovate?
There are many reasons why you may have outgrown your post-war home. Sometimes, it’s as simple as needing more space for your family. For others, it’s a case of wanting to update to a modern style while retaining the heritage aspects of the house.
Homes from this era are often relatively small, with narrow corridors and a shortage of natural light. They can also be expensive to run due to a lack of insulation and gaps in windows and doorframes.
However, this doesn’t mean you need to up and move. While the home itself may be small, post-war houses were often built on generous blocks with plenty of potential for expansion.
Where do you start with a post-war home renovation?
If you love where you live but not the home you’re in, a renovation is the perfect solution. Many post-war homes were built on stumps, meaning they can be lifted, rotated and moved to make the most of the block of land they’re on.
Make the most of the space you have available by expanding with a second storey or an extension. Knocking through walls can create modern, open-plan living and let in more light to make your home feel more spacious.
When the bones are good, as is generally the case with post-war homes, it’s often more about updating your home to suit modern life. Use sustainable materials for an eco-friendly approach and invest in good insulation to cut heating and cooling costs.
By working with what you have, you can easily turn your outdated post-war house into the home of your dreams, without moving from the area you love.
If you’re ready to discuss renovating your post-war home, get in touch with the team at Radius Builders today.
