The eastern and inner northern suburbs of Adelaide are known for their rows and rows of cutesy villas. This architectural style is a hit with families and residents of all sorts, with enough room for a few bedrooms and some garden space, but rarely double storied. Most people know this style for the asymmetrical façade, consisting of a single front room on one side, with one of those lovely old Adelaide verandahs on the other and wrapping around the side.
Perhaps you are renovating, building from scratch in an old style, or sense something wrong but cannot quite pick what it is. Whichever it is, it can certainly be hard to mimic all of the finer details of a turn of the century villa. Of course, there are plenty of smaller differences between the villas of Adelaide, and indeed some owners purposely deviate from the norm in the interest of adding character to their property. However, if you intend to maintain the original character and charm of the quaint local villa, then these features tend to be the rule.
From the footpath, most villas tend to be bordered with a striking fence which mimics the somewhat formal architecture of the property. Most commonly, this consists of a basic cement fence base, upon which black tubular fencing is installed. This tubular fencing tends to take the form of alternate heights and perhaps speared tips. Other fencing designs that look in keeping with the theme of the home include manicured hedges, well maintained brush fences, or a tubular fence which uses the same stone as the front of the home instead of simply cement. Picket fences are also quite popular in the eastern suburbs.
Beyond the fence, the front yard is equally as formal. In most cases, as simple neat lawn divided by a central path form the gate to the front door is all it takes. Because the face of the house itself is relatively detailed, the garden does not need to grab attention. In fact, an over achieving garden can detract from rather than add to the home. Any plants or trees that are planted tend to be in rows or otherwise minimally scattered. It is also fitting to have a water feature or fountain of some sort, and maintain a sense of symmetry throughout.
The material used to build the walls of the house itself are what are perhaps most distinctive about this iconic style. There are some stunning bluestone villas which contrast the grey blue of the slate with cream or white brick detailing. There are other less dramatic colour schemes such as sandstone and beige, or a sandstone and ochre red. There is classically a quoin running down the side of the home which makes a bold design statement.
Finally, the other very notable aspect of the villa recognisable from the street is the beautiful sweeping square verandah. This large structure often houses a quaint little table and chairs or some greenery, with the front door flush against the edge of the front room. Cast iron lacing, often in white or cream can look stunning beneath the gutter. Those looking at restoring an old villa might like to consider a large scale paint job as well as remodelling this lace, as it can rust and bring down the appearance of the property. Typically villas employ a bullnose style verandah roofing, which curves at the very edge. You might want to consult with a roofing specialist about the exact tones which will complement your colour scheme.
Chat to the Renowned Adelaide Verandahs Specialists at Pergolarific.
Perhaps you are renovating, building from scratch in an old style, or sense something wrong but cannot quite pick what it is. Whichever it is, it can certainly be hard to mimic all of the finer details of a turn of the century villa. Of course, there are plenty of smaller differences between the villas of Adelaide, and indeed some owners purposely deviate from the norm in the interest of adding character to their property. However, if you intend to maintain the original character and charm of the quaint local villa, then these features tend to be the rule.
From the footpath, most villas tend to be bordered with a striking fence which mimics the somewhat formal architecture of the property. Most commonly, this consists of a basic cement fence base, upon which black tubular fencing is installed. This tubular fencing tends to take the form of alternate heights and perhaps speared tips. Other fencing designs that look in keeping with the theme of the home include manicured hedges, well maintained brush fences, or a tubular fence which uses the same stone as the front of the home instead of simply cement. Picket fences are also quite popular in the eastern suburbs.
Beyond the fence, the front yard is equally as formal. In most cases, as simple neat lawn divided by a central path form the gate to the front door is all it takes. Because the face of the house itself is relatively detailed, the garden does not need to grab attention. In fact, an over achieving garden can detract from rather than add to the home. Any plants or trees that are planted tend to be in rows or otherwise minimally scattered. It is also fitting to have a water feature or fountain of some sort, and maintain a sense of symmetry throughout.
The material used to build the walls of the house itself are what are perhaps most distinctive about this iconic style. There are some stunning bluestone villas which contrast the grey blue of the slate with cream or white brick detailing. There are other less dramatic colour schemes such as sandstone and beige, or a sandstone and ochre red. There is classically a quoin running down the side of the home which makes a bold design statement.
Finally, the other very notable aspect of the villa recognisable from the street is the beautiful sweeping square verandah. This large structure often houses a quaint little table and chairs or some greenery, with the front door flush against the edge of the front room. Cast iron lacing, often in white or cream can look stunning beneath the gutter. Those looking at restoring an old villa might like to consider a large scale paint job as well as remodelling this lace, as it can rust and bring down the appearance of the property. Typically villas employ a bullnose style verandah roofing, which curves at the very edge. You might want to consult with a roofing specialist about the exact tones which will complement your colour scheme.
Chat to the Renowned Adelaide Verandahs Specialists at Pergolarific.
