Painting Heritage Homes in Melbourne

Melbourne is home to thousands of beautiful heritage properties, from ornate Victorian terraces to elegant Edwardian villas. Painting these homes requires understanding both the architectural heritage and any overlay requirements. This guide helps you approach heritage painting with confidence.

Melbourne's Heritage Home Styles

Victorian Era (1850s-1901)

Characteristics:

• Ornate cast iron lacework
• Detailed timber fretwork
• Decorative mouldings and cornices
• Often bold, dark colour schemes

Edwardian Era (1901-1914)

Characteristics:

• Red brick often featured
• Timber verandah posts and fretwork
• Less ornate than Victorian
• Lighter colour palettes

Federation Style (1890-1915)

Characteristics:

• Australian native motifs
• Red brick with render details
• Terracotta roof tiles
• Earthy, natural colour tones

Heritage Overlay Requirements

If your home is in a heritage overlay zone, you may need:

• Planning permit: For significant colour changes
• Colour approval: From your local council
• Heritage advisor consultation: For major works

Check with your local council before planning exterior colour changes.

Authentic Period Colour Schemes

Victorian Colours

• Body: Deep greens, burgundy, ochre, cream
• Trim: Cream, Indian red, Brunswick green
• Highlights: Gold, maroon, deep blue
• Lacework: Often cream or contrasting colour

Edwardian Colours

• Body: Softer greens, greys, creams
• Trim: White, cream, soft contrasts
• Timber: Natural stains or painted
• Overall: Lighter, more subtle palettes

Federation Colours

• Body: Earthy reds, greens, browns
• Trim: Cream, heritage greens
• Features: Often left as natural brick
• Timber: Stained or painted to complement brick

Special Considerations for Heritage Painting

Surface Preparation

• Careful removal of old paint (may contain lead)
• Preservation of original detail
• Repair of ornate features before painting
• Using appropriate primers for aged surfaces

Lead Paint Safety

Homes built before 1970 may have lead paint:

• Test before disturbing old paint
• Use licensed lead paint removers if present
• Never dry sand lead paint
• Proper disposal required

Preserving Detail

• Multiple colours highlight architectural features
• Different finishes for different elements
• Careful cutting in around ornate details
• Hand painting often preferred over spray

Modern vs Heritage Colours

While heritage overlays may restrict exterior colours, you have more freedom with:

• Interior colours: Usually unrestricted
• Non-visible areas: Rear of property often flexible
• Contemporary interpretations: Modern takes on heritage palettes

Heritage Paint Brands

Several brands offer heritage colour ranges:

• Dulux Heritage: Extensive period colour range
• Haymes Heritage: Australian heritage colours
• Wattyl: Traditional colour options