victorian style: artSparx interior design and Period design archives

Victorian era bridges allot of different design styles and sensibilities. It is generally considered that the Victorian period found it’s beginnings with the demise of Napoleon’s expansionist policies, continuing thru the reign of Queen Victoria, and culminating up to WW1 in 1914. The styles developed from each other not only as an extension of the current political situation but also to the needs of the rising middle class during the industrial revolution.

When we speak of the ‘Victorian Style’, distinct images come to mind as an overall feeling develops. The ‘gingerbread’ house with eaves and gables. A verandah with turned porch posts, spindles and fan-like brackets become characteristic of the style. Steeply pitched roofs and turrets are sometimes seen. The use of color played an important role, both on the exterior as well as the interior. Multiple colors on the exteriors, now have become known as ‘historic colors’.

The interiors were rich and exciting. Entering into a home you could enjoy decorative plaster moldings or cornices. Intricately patterned friezes, ceiling medallions, even mirror frames were highly embellished. Wonderfully turned balusters to support your stair railing reminds us of the grand entrance. Parquet floors might call for our attention as well as inlayed wood patterns or painted/stenciled borders. Rich carpets were freely used.

Damask patterned wall paper with raised texture became the norm for upscale Victorian homes.

Tile was not overlooked and early linoleum found it’s start in this era. The decorative elements of the home might begin with color. With stronger, darker colors becoming more fashionable by the second half of the 19th century. Decorative paint finishes can be seen liberally. Graining, marbling, gilding, distressed lacquer-red walls contrast marble fireplace. Influences from around the world become prevalent with animal prints being very popular in the Victorian home.

Victorian Style architectural details and ornamentation!

Ceiling medallions, cornices and moldings. Authentic Period and Historic Home architectural ornamentation.
All crafted in genuine plaster.
For commercial and residential environments.

Visit architecturalFX.com

Because of the new revolution in mass production methods the textile industry flourished with developments such as the power-loom weaving and machine-printing. Richly textured and colored, often finding elaborate floral designs. Heavier fabrics such as Velvet became more common. Wallpaper became a source of decorating.

Wallpapers and paper borders become fashionable

William Morris and his studio became leading examples fro these new styles. Paisley prints abound. Asian/Indian influences in fabrics and furnishings mark a distinct style in the Victorian era known as Japonisme.

Large Armoires. Styles varied greatly, often ‘reviving’ older styles. Couches and sofas become quite plump, with soft upholstery. A heavy pedestal mahogany dining table might be found, exemplifying a growing feeling that solid, weighty furniture reinforces the wealth and status of the home owner. Butler trays and side tables help fill unused spaces. Collections of all kinds become popular, from Straffordshire figurines to doll houses to china-ware.

Lighting fixtures, iron chandeliers and wonderfully shaped shades for the many table and standing lamps become a renewed source of interest, with artisans such as Tiffany and his workshop creating wonderful stained glass lamps and other decorative objects. China and dishware find a new resurgence, showing off wonderful patterns and intricate details.

Step-by-Step tutorials

Gilding

Silver leafing made easy
Gilding objects, ceilings or furniture in Silver leaf can be just the right touch to create the Modern look you are after.