Building Renovations and Refurbishments

Restoration focuses on returning a building as closely as possible to its original condition, often using traditional materials and techniques, and is common with listed or heritage properties. Refurbishment, on the other hand, is about updating and improving a building for modern use, which may involve introducing new materials, layouts, or systems. Many of our heritage projects across Devon involve a blend of both, restoring original character while refurbishing the property for modern living.

Building refurbishment refers to the process of updating, repairing, or improving an existing building to bring it up to modern standards, without necessarily changing its overall structure or use. This can range from cosmetic improvements through to more substantial upgrades, such as rewiring, replumbing, or improving insulation, all aimed at extending the life and usability of the building.

A new bathroom in the UK typically costs between £4,000 and £12,000, depending on the size of the room, the quality of fittings, and whether any structural or plumbing changes are needed. Higher-end finishes, underfloor heating, or bespoke fittings, common in the luxury bathrooms we install as part of larger renovation projects, will push costs towards the upper end of that range.

Renovating is usually cheaper than a full rebuild, particularly when the existing structure is sound, as it makes use of the foundations, walls, and roof already in place rather than starting from scratch. However, if a building has significant structural issues, the cost of extensive repairs can sometimes approach or exceed that of a rebuild, which is why a proper survey is essential before deciding which route to take. We can help you to make serious decisions about what changes to make including what value can be added, how much it costs and the length of time till completion. 

Refurbishment projects should always start with a thorough survey of the building’s condition, followed by a clear plan that identifies priorities, such as structural repairs, damp issues, or outdated electrics, before any cosmetic work begins. Establishing this groundwork first helps avoid costly surprises later in the project and ensures the work is sequenced correctly. Sometimes you can reduce costs by doing certain preparation works yourself, however, it’s almost always best to speak to your chosen construction team first to understand what needs to be done and how. You can see some of the latest work by Peninsula Custom Construction including a recent renovation on our projects page.

No, refurbishment and maintenance are different. Maintenance refers to the ongoing, routine work needed to keep a building in good condition, such as repairs and upkeep, while refurbishment involves a more substantial programme of improvement or modernisation, often addressing multiple areas of a building at once.

Common types of refurbishment include cosmetic refurbishment, such as redecorating and updating finishes, structural refurbishment involving repairs or alterations to the building’s fabric, and full refurbishment, which combines both alongside upgrades to services like plumbing and electrics. Heritage refurbishment is another common type, particularly across Devon, where period properties are sensitively updated while preserving original character.

Buildings are generally categorised into four main types: residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure or public buildings. Most of our refurbishment and renovation work falls within the residential category, covering everything from period cottages to larger rural properties across Devon and Cornwall. We are especially adept at renovation or converting former commercial buildings into residential and can advise on the proper regulatory steps to undertake to meet building regulations.

Renovation and refurbishment are closely related but not quite the same. Renovation usually implies restoring or improving a building’s condition, often with a focus on repair and modernisation, while refurbishment can be a broader term covering any significant update or improvement, whether structural or cosmetic. In practice, the two terms are often used interchangeably within the building industry.

Not exactly. While refurbishment can include repair work, it’s a broader process that typically also involves improving or modernising a building, rather than simply fixing what’s broken. A refurbishment project might include repairs alongside upgrades to insulation, layout, or fittings, aimed at bringing the whole building up to a higher standard. If you’re planning a renovation or refurbishment project in Devon or Cornwall, contact our team to discuss how we can help bring your property up to date.