Spotlight: UK homes from quirky to classic

Chloe, the founder of Made:Small, has always found a special joy in working with existing buildings, especially those that are unique or unusual. Throughout her architectural practice, clients have often asked about the history of their homes, while some wished they didn’t have to navigate the challenges that come with historical features. However, rather than viewing these features as obstacles, Chloe sees them as something worth celebrating. The UK’s rich variety of building styles, shaped by decades of history, is far more diverse than many might realise.

In fact, the data about the UK's housing stock reveals that older buildings are much rarer than you'd think. LETI, a network of professionals working towards a net-zero carbon future in the UK, has created a brilliant infographic that gives a fascinating overview of the country’s housing stock.

It’s a great way to see just how common or rare your home is compared to others across the UK. For example, semi-detached houses from the second half of the 20th century are the most widespread, while pre-1949 bungalows are much harder to come by.

When comparing UK housing trends with the rest of Europe, one standout feature is the prevalence of attached homes. In the UK, around 52% of homes are attached, and only Ireland and the Netherlands have a similar proportion. Other European countries, however, tend to have a higher percentage of flats and detached houses. In the UK, flats make up around 20% of homes, but in many southern and eastern European countries, they account for over 60%.

Another fascinating fact: the UK has the highest proportion of pre-World War II homes in Europe, with about 38% of houses dating back to that era. Wales holds the title for having the oldest housing stock in the UK, and by extension, Europe. Many of these homes, especially the pre-1919 terraces, were built for miners and industrial workers, and their families. In contract, over 40% of Northern Ireland’s homes were constructed after 1980, likely due to the establishment of 'New Towns' under post-war legislation that took effect in the 1960s.

While it’s easy to tell if your home is attached or detached, determining its age can be trickier. The architectural style, materials, and even the area where it's located can offer clues, but one of the best places to start is with historical Ordnance Survey (OS) maps. The National Library of Scotland has an extensive online archive of these maps, which are free to view. If your home predates these maps, a visit to your local historical archive could uncover fascinating details about its past.

At Made:Small, we believe every home deserves to be celebrated. Mid-century semi-detached houses are common for a reason—they make wonderful family homes. On the other end of the spectrum, quirky old buildings offer a unique glimpse into how people lived in the past. Our pricing is based on the size and complexity of each project, so whether your home is a rare gem or common classic we’d love to model its likeness.