Bringing a Victorian Sitting Room into the 21st Century – While Preserving Its Timeless Charm

Keith Coleman • 6 February 2025

Share

At Jeelek Electrical Services, we take pride in transforming living spaces while respecting the original character of a property. Recently, we had the pleasure of managing the full refurbishment of a tired sitting room in a stunning Victorian home.

Our client wanted to modernise the space, incorporating contemporary technology and lighting, yet retaining the period charm that makes Victorian properties so special.


From initial planning to the final installations, we oversaw every aspect of the project, ensuring seamless coordination between tradespeople, top-quality workmanship, and a flawless finish.

Bringing the (Tele)vision to Life: Blending Tradition with Technology


The homeowner’s vision was clear: they wanted a space that could comfortably house modern entertainment features, such as a large-screen TV and sound system, but without compromising the elegant proportions and intricate detailing typical of Victorian interiors.

To achieve this, we installed new studwork to discreetly house the TV, soundbar, and all associated cabling.

This allowed for a completely streamlined look, with no visible wires interrupting the clean aesthetic of the room.

Rejuvenating the Architectural Features


To restore the room’s grandeur, we undertook a full refresh of the walls and ceilings:

  • New ceilings were installed.
  • All walls and ceilings were carefully skimmed with plaster, ensuring a smooth and even surface for painting and decorating.
  • A new plaster cornice was installed, adding back the classic architectural detail that defines Victorian interiors.


To further enhance the room’s character, we fitted new tall skirting boards, architraves, and a picture rail around the perimeter. These elements reinstated the traditional Victorian proportions, bringing elegance and structure to the space.




Laying the Foundations for a Luxurious Finish


The existing flooring was replaced with new oak floors, which provided warmth, durability, and a timeless appeal.

The natural tones of oak perfectly complemented the period features while offering a modern, low-maintenance solution for contemporary living.

Innovative Lighting Design: A Subtle Yet Striking Feature


One of the key elements of this refurbishment was the integration of modern lighting solutions to highlight the room’s architectural details. We installed:

  • LED strip lighting within the picture rail, subtly illuminating the ornate plaster cornice and drawing attention to the intricate detailing.
  • LED strip lighting behind the TV and soundbar shelf, creating an ambient glow and enhancing the cinematic experience.
  • A feature ceiling pendant and plaster ceiling rose, reinstating the grandeur of a traditional Victorian sitting room while adding a striking focal point.


The combination of warm oak flooring, elegant plasterwork, and smart lighting solutions resulted in a space that felt both inviting and sophisticated—blending period charm with modern convenience.



A Fully Managed Project – Delivered to the Highest Standards


From start to finish, this project was expertly managed by Jeelek Electrical Services, with all trades supplied by our trusted network of highly skilled professionals. We coordinated every stage, ensuring the highest level of workmanship and attention to detail, leaving the homeowners with a beautifully refurbished space, ready for their finishing touches and furnishings.


This project perfectly demonstrates our expertise in seamless project management, combining electrical installations with high-end property renovations. Whether it’s a period restoration or a contemporary update, Jeelek Electrical Services delivers outstanding results, tailored to each client’s vision.


If you're considering a refurbishment project and want expert management from a trusted team, get in touch with Jeelek Electrical Services today—we’d love to bring your vision to life.

More news, tips and advice

Blue Seat Leon car parked under hexagon-shaped LED lights in a garage.
by Keith Coleman 15 November 2025
We recently popped over to Charlie’s Detailing in Ventnor to install a fresh hex lighting system in their workshop. A simple job on paper, but a real game-changer for detailing quality. One local business helping another—just how we like it.
Electrical panel being tested by a technician with a multimeter. Logo for
by Keith Coleman 13 November 2025
Electrical testing isn’t glamorous, and it’s never been my favourite task — but it’s one of the most important. Here’s why I approach it with honesty, common sense and a genuine focus on keeping homes, businesses and tenants safe across the Isle of Wight.
Living room with artwork, white furniture, text
by Keith Coleman 12 November 2025
Start 2026 with a brighter, more modern home. From stylish sockets to energy-saving LED lighting, Jeelek Electrical Services can help refresh your space — safely, neatly, and locally across the Isle of Wight.
An empty kitchen with orange walls and wooden floors.
by Keith Coleman 4 December 2024
At Jeelek Electrical Services, we pride ourselves on delivering seamless project management and exceptional craftsmanship, and our latest renovation is no exception.
A bathroom with a walk in shower , toilet , sink and window.
by Keith Coleman 13 July 2024
At Jeelek Electrical Services, we take pride in blending modern convenience with classic elegance, and our recent shower room refurbishment in a Victorian property in Ventnor is a testament to this commitment.
A fully restored Victorian drawing room in a stately home.
by Keith Coleman 18 June 2024
Recently, we had the privilege of taking on a significant refurbishment project for a returning customer.
A Rotary Phase Converter
by Keith Coleman 20 May 2024
Our customer needed to run various 3-phase, 400-volt vehicle repair equipment in his single-phase workshop.
A kitchen with a large island and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
by Keith Coleman 21 April 2024
At Jeelek Electrical & Construction Services, we recently had the distinct pleasure of working on an electrical installation project for a beautiful Victorian apartment in Ventnor on the Isle of Wight.
Transformation of a tired old bedroom into an en-suite bathroom and dressing room.
by Keith Coleman 16 July 2023
Welcome back to our series of blog posts documenting the remarkable refurbishment journey of a three-story, four-bedroom Victorian townhouse on the beautiful Isle of Wight.
Hallway and landing of a Victorian townhouse
by Keith Coleman 14 July 2023
Jeelek Ltd's recent refurbishment of a Victorian townhouse on the Isle of Wight stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and craftsmanship.
More posts