The Victorian Design Style

Victorian architecture emphasizes ornate design and dramatic flourishes, with various unique styles that combine both traditional building techniques and newly-invented methods. These methods allow for the quick construction of large, extravagant buildings, unlike in the previous eras. While many specific elements define Victorian homes and buildings, the most common ones include:

Using brick, stone, and plaster, Victorian home builders in ancient times tried to convey a sense of strength and durability. This was part of an overall design philosophy that encouraged ornamentation to build character among masons. Brick is one construction material that has proven its ability to withstand time and continues to be a common choice for building Victorian homes today.

Victorian homeowners preferred glossy, lacquered finishes, often with a gilded look. Think of red walls and gold trim or black-and-white checkered floors. To recreate that opulent feel today, they use dark-colored wallpaper and dark furniture pieces for interior design. For example, you can pair a burgundy patterned wallpapered room with mahogany-stained furniture. 

The delicate, detailed furniture designs found in Victorian homes represent varied styles, including Chippendale, French Rococo, and Queen Anne. Ornate and often elaborate, these pieces reflected the high status and wealth of their owners. Note that lavish furniture could be found on every floor of a typical Victorian home, including parlors, sitting rooms, and dining rooms. Each piece of furniture in a Victorian home is unique to match the owner's tastes and preferences. 

Victorian lighting is typically very decorative in comparison to other forms of modern lighting. Chandeliers were often large and intricate to suit such a grandiose space. Other lights were created for reading and decorative purposes. Candles were also a regular way of providing light in Victorian homes.