Heritage hallway restoration

Heritage interior restoration — thoughtful conservation

Fanukem specialises in restoring period interiors across Melbourne — plasterwork, decorative cornices, timber floors and joinery — blending conservation best practice with discreet modern upgrades.

Detail of restored cornice

Why choose specialist heritage restoration?

Heritage interiors require sensitive techniques and materials that respect original fabric while meeting modern use. We focus on reversible repairs, matching profiles and finishes, and documented processes suitable for conservation requirements.

  • Conservation-minded repair plans
  • Authentic materials and mortar mixes
  • Skilled trades with period experience

Core services

Plaster and cornice repair

Timber floor restoration

Joinery and skirting repair

Traditional paint finishes

Measured conservation plans

Moisture and remediation works

Our approach — documented, staged, respectful

1. Survey

Condition report, photographs and recommended scope with prioritised conservation tasks.

2. Sample & approvals

Material samples, colour matching and any necessary heritage approvals coordinated for you.

3. Conservation works

Staged interventions, use of compatible materials, and final documentation for records.

Selected case studies

Federation terrace restoration
Federation terrace — cornice and ceiling repair

Discrete repair and moulding replication after water damage, matching original profiles and finishes.

Victorian floor restoration
Victorian villa — timber floor restoration

Sanding, board replacement and traditional oil finish, retaining original patina where possible.

Heritage joinery repair
Interwar apartment — joinery and skirting repair

Matched mouldings and reversible repairs with documented conservation notes for owners.

Materials & techniques

We prioritise materials that are compatible with original fabric and the long-term performance of the building.

ElementPreferred materialWhy
Plaster cornicesTraditional lime & gypsum mixesAllows breathability, workable for replication
Timber floorsReclaimed hardwood & matching boardsVisual match and structural compatibility
Paint finishesAlkali-stable primers, mineral paintsDurable, historically appropriate matte finish
Lead conservator
Alex T. — Lead Conservator

Heritage trade background, conservation training and project lead for period interiors.

Our on-site team

A mixed team of carpenters, plasterers and finishers experienced in matched repairs. We provide job-specific supervision and written conservation notes upon completion.

Frequently asked questions

Timelines vary: small cornice repairs may be completed in days; whole-room conservation and finishes typically run from 2–6 weeks depending on conditions and approvals.

We prepare material notes and can liaise with heritage planners; formal approvals remain the client's responsibility unless otherwise contracted.

Where practical, original finishes and patina are retained. Any replacements are matched and documented to maintain heritage integrity.
Discuss your heritage interior

We offer site assessments and tailored conservation proposals for Melbourne homes and apartments.