Investing in homes also means protecting their history

Portland Terrace isn’t just a home. It’s a piece of history. Its lime render, sash windows and period details give it a character all its own. Great care has gone into restoring these features using traditional methods and materials.

The original lime render was matched and finished with breathable heritage paint so the building can age well. The timber sash windows were repaired, with traditional putty and missing timber details reinstated so the facade looks and works as it should. Natural stone was used for the front walkways, and period-style lampposts have been installed using ground screws to protect nearby trees in the conservation area.

“Alongside the restoration, we’ve made practical improvements to ensure Portland Terrace is safe, comfortable and sustainable for the future”

Why do we do this? Because homes are more than walls and roofs; they help make us feel anchored, create identity, pride and belonging. They connect people to their community, to their history and to a story bigger than their own.

Places like Portland Terrace don’t just house people; they hold decades of memories, milestones and moments. They carry the craftsmanship, character and cultural heritage that shaped the lives of those who came before and still shape the experience of those who live there today.

Preserving heritage doesn’t mean compromising comfort or safety. Alongside the restoration, we’ve made practical improvements to ensure Portland Terrace is safe, comfortable and sustainable for the future. We’ve improved access and safety with resurfaced car parks and better drainage. We’ve added new roof windows to bring in light and ventilation and carried out structural repairs to protect the building for decades to come.

These changes reflect our commitment to creating homes that not only look good but work well for the people who live in them. Last financial year, we spent the most we ever have across repairs and maintenance, major works, building safety and sustainability, with a total investment in customers’ homes of £100.2m. That investment helps keep homes in good working order and supports our goal of affordable, sustainable, high-quality places to live.

While we remain dedicated to building more homes, we are also making sure the homes we already have, and the ones our customers live in, stay in the best condition possible. Portland Terrace is just one example of this commitment.

“We’re proud to play our part in helping preserve these places so they remain part of that story for generations to come”

Across the south of England, historic homes and buildings tell the story of our communities. We’re proud to play our part in helping preserve these places so they remain part of that story for generations to come. Though many of our homes don’t share the same rich history as Portland Terrace, they are just as important.

Every home matters because it’s where people build their lives, and we’re committed to making sure they remain safe, comfortable and welcoming. Whether it’s upgrading kitchens and bathrooms, improving energy efficiency or carrying out essential safety work, we’re focused on keeping every home a good place to live for years to come.

Our approach is holistic. We maintain heritage, improve safety and enhance energy efficiency, all while listening to our customers. By investing in homes like Portland Terrace, we’re showing that heritage and progress can go hand in hand. We’re creating homes that stand the test of time, places where people can feel proud to live.

Matt Bellamy, director of asset strategy and delivery, Vivid