Jane and Paul Bergin have significantly increased the value of their once awkwardly-designed home through strategic renovations. The Telegraph featured the journey of this couple’s transformation of their 1960s semi-detached house in Surrey into a highly desirable property.
The Bergins, weekend renovators with a knack for seeing potential, purchased their five-bedroom home in 2019 for £586,000—£49,000 less than the asking price. The house, stagnant in style after 40 years with the same owners, was ripe for a makeover. Jane, a real estate lawyer, and Paul, a joiner, balanced their demanding London careers with their ambitious renovation project, starting just days after their engagement.
A Home Transformation Begins
The structural soundness of their home was a plus, but its odd room designs and disjointed layout presented challenges. The renovation kicked off upstairs when Paul, temporarily on furlough due to the pandemic, created an oak-lined dressing room in a previously unused space. As he returned to work, progress slowed, particularly with a major repositioning of doors and windows to enhance natural light, a task that left their home open to nocturnal fox visits for several months!
Interior Design Expert Weighs In
Francesca Harris, a noted interior designer, reviewed the Bergins’ efforts and provided insights into their choices. Starting with the upstairs transformations and moving to the creative restructuring downstairs, Harris noted the blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal in each decision.
Clever Solutions in Tight Spaces
In the revamped layout, the lounge was halved, and a kitchen now sits behind stylish black pocket doors. A dark corridor was widened by just 20cm to fit a utility room, showcasing the couple’s ability to optimise limited space. The kitchen, lacking space for an island, features a more suitable peninsula topped with Bianco stratus quartz, which Harris noted for its brightening effect but also its tendency to show every spill.
Jane’s long-dreamed-of pantry became a reality after a structural barrier prevented wall removal. This addition, along with a bespoke kitchen painted in studio green, was fitted by Paul for around £1,200, proving that grand designs don’t always come with grand price tags.
Living Room and Beyond
In the living area, Jane and Paul added character with wainscot paneling and a controversial choice of polystyrene coving, an affordable alternative to traditional materials. This decision, while budget-friendly, came with warnings from Harris about its durability and safety.
Tech-Savvy Enhancements
The media wall, an under £1,000 DIY project, features textured wallpaper and strip backlighting, adding a sophisticated touch to their entertainment setup. Cleverly hidden behind a fake panel are the tech essentials—cables, a sound bar, and gaming equipment. Affordable ceiling speakers installed throughout the ground floor enhance the home’s ambiance and functionality.
The Financial Upside
All these enhancements have not only turned their house into a home but also boosted its value. In just four years, the property’s worth has soared by up to £224,000, with estimates now between £780,000 and £810,000. This increase is a testament to the couple’s hard work and the power of thoughtful renovation.
Jane and Paul’s journey from buying a dated property to turning it into a highly valuable asset is not just about upgrading a home, but also about the personal satisfaction and financial benefits that come with it. Their story is an inspiring example for fellow renovators, proving that with the right approach, even the most “awkward” homes can be transformed into something spectacular.