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Fundamentals of Building Victorian Style Houses

Prashant Magar
The Victorian period is considered the golden period of art and architecture. If you desire a house that has the best of modern architecture and romanticism associated with a royal feeling, a Victorian house might just be the style for you.
The origin of Victorian architecture dates back to the Victorian era, the time when Queen Victoria ruled England. The contemporary period from 1837 to 1901 witnessed a rapid growth in industrialization leading to a better and prosperous society.
People started building innovative houses which were associated with their wealth and position in the society. The resulting structures which had a typical majestic style of construction was referred to as Victorian architecture.
The design grew in popularity quickly and is still a trademark development in the history of architecture. Natural settings, geometrical patterns, historical feel, and elements of personal touch are characteristic features of a Victorian house.

Design

The Victorian age heralded the confluence of different branches of construction and designing. This type of house is popular because it retains its charm and age-old mysticism, and also gives you space to incorporate your own additions.
This type of architecture thrived in popularity because it was never an imposing style but an amalgamation of local influences along with the basic aspects of Victorian design. Almost all of these homes have a green and manicured lawn or open space around them.
The Gothic, Italianate, Neoclassic, and the Second Empire style each has its own special impact on Victorian architecture. The homes built in America during the early periods were largely simple in design. Later on, especially after the Civil War period, the designs became more and more complex.
A mixture of the styles can lead to a wonderful creation. Classic ornamentation and a rich use of color are regular features of these houses. There are certain influences which are an integral part of Victorian design. Arches and a pointed set of windows replicating castles and churches of the medieval period are a Gothic influence.
In the United States, the advanced form of this design became popular; this comprised the classical structures influenced by Italian architecture. The showy and bracketed style includes wide porches with decorative hangings, low roofs, and a place filled with furniture.
The furniture was essentially wood work, and was generally heavy with a huge display of armories, big set of chairs, large and plump cushions, and sofa sets. There is a huge and prominent look to the furniture in this style.

Interiors

The interiors involve a lavish use of color and a royal flavor. Intricate design work and an extensive use of romantic, classic, or formal-themed wallpaper are some common features.
A luxurious home can have cornices, moldings, and medallion works. An intricate arrangement of lighting and dark colors, extensive use of marble, lacquer, and the heavy chandeliers also enhance the interiors of the house the Victorian way.
Embroidery work and carpeting in rich textures with a generous use of floral patterns similar to those used in Indian or Asian architecture are a great value addition to this design. The influence of the French and Italian designs is significant in the design of the interiors.
A Victorian home is a mark of prestige and honor. The design must display the splendor and the majestic effect associated with an affluent setting. The Victorian era symbolized the power of the British Empire. Similarly, the houses aptly portray 'reign' and 'authority' that is fit for a royal salutation.