Preserving Melbourne's Architectural Heritage
Melbourne's inner east is defined by its period architecture. From the grand Victorians of Hawthorn and Kew to the elegant Edwardians of Canterbury and the red-brick Federation homes of Camberwell, these properties represent some of Australia's most significant residential architecture. Painting them requires more than skill — it requires an understanding of the home's history, materials and the expectations of owners who value authenticity.
At Darryl Hathway Painting, we specialise in heritage and period home painting across Melbourne's inner eastern suburbs. Our team has completed dozens of heritage projects, working within council heritage overlays, consulting with heritage architects, and applying techniques that respect and enhance original detailing while providing lasting protection.
Victorian & Edwardian Homes
Victoria's boom-era homes are characterised by ornate cast-iron lacework, decorative timber fretwork, elaborate corbelling, turned verandah posts, deep skirting boards and ceiling roses. Edwardian homes bring their own hallmarks — red brick with rendered details, timber-framed windows, and more restrained but equally elegant detailing.
Painting these homes demands patience and precision. We hand-cut around intricate details, carefully prepare aged substrates without damaging original features, and apply coatings that enhance rather than obscure the craftsmanship of the original builders.
Our experience covers homes across Hawthorn, Kew, Canterbury, Camberwell and Toorak — suburbs where period homes are the norm, not the exception.
Federation Homes
Federation-era homes (roughly 1890–1915) combine elements of Victorian and Edwardian design with Australian materials and motifs. Red brick, terracotta tiles, timber verandah detailing and distinctive colour palettes define the style. These homes often feature complex rooflines, bay windows and decorative timberwork that require careful preparation and coating selection.
We understand the specific challenges of Federation homes, including the use of softer timbers, lime-based renders and original lead-based paints that require safe removal before recoating. Our painters are trained in lead-safe work practices and we follow all Victorian EPA guidelines for lead paint management.
Lead Paint Removal & Safety
Many period homes in Melbourne's inner east were originally painted with lead-based paints. Before any repainting can take place, these coatings must be identified and managed safely. Our team is trained in lead-safe work practices in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4361.2 and Victorian EPA requirements.
We carry out testing where lead paint is suspected, and our removal and encapsulation methods protect your family, our team and the environment. This is not optional work — it is a critical part of any heritage painting project, and it is built into our process from the very first inspection.
Heritage Colour Selection
Choosing the right colours for a heritage home is about more than personal taste. It is about understanding the architectural period, the original colour intent, and the context of the surrounding streetscape. We work with recognised heritage colour ranges from Dulux, Haymes and Resene, and can guide homeowners through the selection process with reference to historical palettes.
For homes within heritage overlays, colour schemes may require council approval. We can assist with the preparation of colour schedules and documentation needed for planning applications, drawing on our experience with the City of Boroondara and neighbouring municipalities.
Working with Heritage Consultants & Architects
Many heritage projects involve collaboration with heritage consultants, architects and interior designers. We are comfortable working as part of a project team, following detailed specifications and reporting on progress. Our team understands the documentation standards expected on heritage projects and we maintain clear records of products, colours, application methods and surface preparation for every job.
Whether you are restoring a single room or undertaking a full exterior restoration, we bring the same level of care, planning and craftsmanship to every project.
Discuss Your Heritage Project
If you own a period home in Melbourne's inner east and are considering a repaint or restoration, we would love to hear from you. Our quoting process begins with a thorough on-site inspection where we assess every surface, discuss your goals and provide a detailed, itemised quote.