When someone considers undertaking a complete renovation of an old house, they usually approach it with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. And that's perfectly normal. These homes have character, many years under their belts, and sometimes more surprises than we'd like to admit.
At Armalutx Constructions we have seen everything: from houses that only needed care to others that, when opening a wall, told us half the history of the building.
The good news is that, when done right, a complete renovation of an older home yields spectacular results. Not only do you modernize the space, but you also recapture its essence. Here, based on our everyday experience, we explain how to approach this type of renovation without getting lost along the way.
What makes renovating an old house so special?
Every old house has its story. Sometimes there are elements worth preserving, and other times you have to start almost from scratch. But always, always, you have to go in with an open mind.
Review the structure without rushing
Before discussing finishes or layout, it's essential to verify the house's structural integrity. This means checking walls, beams, ceilings—the typical elements that aren't immediately visible. Most homes are in better condition than they appear, but we have occasionally encountered areas requiring reinforcement. The more thorough this initial assessment, the fewer unpleasant surprises you'll encounter later.
The facilities often require renovation.
In an older home, it's common for the electrical wiring, plumbing, and sanitation to be outdated. Even if you want to maintain the original style, the smart thing to do is to replace everything. This avoids future problems and allows the house to function as a modern home inside, while preserving its charm on the outside.
Insulation: the weak point of almost all
Many older homes lack thermal insulation, or it's so worn that it barely serves its purpose. Upgrading it makes a world of difference: less noise, greater comfort, and more reasonable energy consumption. It's one of those decisions that goes unnoticed but makes a real difference.
How to actually organize a complete renovation of an old house
There's no perfect template, but there is a way of working that almost always works. Here's a summary of how we usually do it at Armalutx.
1. Initial visit and planning
There's a technical aspect, of course, but also an emotional one. It involves listening to what the owner wants, understanding the history of the property, and figuring out what can be preserved. With that information, the main idea for the renovation is developed, and feasibility is assessed.
2. Realistic budgeting
This type of renovation requires a very clear budget, with well-defined line items and room for the unexpected. Older houses sometimes have hidden surprises, and it's better to plan ahead than to improvise halfway through the project.
3. Licenses and documentation
This is where many people get lost. Depending on the type of renovation, a major building permit may be required, while other times a minor one suffices. When the property is old, structural or layout changes often need to be justified. The easiest thing to do is leave it to the technical team.
4. Demolition and cleaning of the property
This phase is impressive. Floors are lifted, false ceilings are removed, old installations are taken out… The house is laid bare, revealing details that weren't always planned. It's the least glamorous part, but the one that clarifies things.
5. New facilities and internal improvements
New electrical wiring, updated plumbing, air conditioning, reinforcements, insulation… This is the backbone of a complete renovation of an older home. It may not be as flashy as laying a beautiful floor, but it's what guarantees the house will function smoothly for years to come.
6. Finishes and final personality
This is where the creativity begins: woodwork, paneling, lighting, textures, and those antique pieces worth restoring. The beauty of old houses lies in their ability to create fascinating combinations of modern and traditional elements.
Tips that always work in these types of renovations
And we speak from experience, not from a manual.
Preserve what has a soul
An old beam, a solid wood frame, a stone wall… It all adds up. When lovingly restored, it becomes the highlight of the home.
Avoid saving money where it's not needed.
The facilities are the foundation of everything. If they're left outdated, the renovation loses its purpose. It's better to invest there than to regret it later.
Choose materials that can withstand everyday use
Old houses require materials that don't fall short: stone, solid wood, resistant porcelain... whatever combines well with their character.
Having a team that understands this type of housing
Not all companies operate the same way. Experience in rehabilitation makes a huge difference in terms of timelines, decisions, and results.
How much does a complete renovation of an old house really cost?
The most honest way to put it is that it depends on the condition of the property, its size, and the materials you want to use. With these kinds of renovations, every house is different. That's why we always ask to see the property before giving a price. Without that initial visit, everything else would be guesswork.
Armalutx, your construction company in Mallorca
At Armalutx, your construction company in Mallorca, we create budgets tailored to the specific needs of each house, without generic templates.
A home renovation in Mallorca is an opportunity to restore a house with history and transform it into a comfortable, safe place adapted to modern life. It requires dedication, yes, but when done well, the change is enormous.
If you have an old house and want us to transform it with you, at Armalutx Constructions we'd be happy to help you from the very first step.
