Victorian Homes

Simply, a Victorian style house plan originally meant a home style built during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Victorians may typically bring to mind story book images of a fairy-tale home. They are indeed famously known for quite ornamental facades. Picturesque, grand towers and steep, regal turrets are two of the most common features associated with the Victorian. However, today, Victorians may vary in many architectural styles and combinations of these diverse designs. These homes are asymmetrical. From romantic to cottage-like on to unique and even a bit whimsical, these can be a Victorian.
Victorians may be one, two, or three stories; however, the two and three stories are the most common built. Exteriors may be wood siding, clapboard siding, or shingle-shake siding. They may even be brick or stone. “Gingerbread” trim work, fanciful dormers, decorative cornices, striking spindles, beautiful dentil moldings, grand gables, and florid brackets are some of the features of the Victorian. Roofs have multiple roof lines with varying roof pitches that are steep. Wood roofs or slate roofs with patterned shingles often decorate and define the Victorian’s roof. Exterior siding and trim work paints range from pretty pastels to bold, primary colors, and even to deep, jewel-toned colors. There are certainly no strict boundaries nor set limits to the exterior paint scheme. Decorative, detailed porch railings and intricate, turned posts make the wrap-around porches just perfect! Sunrooms and enclosed porches are also functional, visually pleasant traits of the Victorian.
Interiors are similarly composed of diverse architectural styles. Octagonal rooms make a unique design statement. Bay windows and sash windows add to this romantic style. Stained glass windows are a beautiful addition. The paint scheme from the exterior may be transferred to the interior to carry on the design theme throughout. Creating the right balance of both color and texture between walls, moldings, ceilings, and woodwork further create the Victorian. Wallpaper and paint finishes in marbleizing, stenciling, and spattering add to this design style. Spiraling floral themes, Gothic inspired trellises, stylized leaf work, and even simulated woodgrain texturing are often found. Tin ceilings with hammered designed details complete the look. Wall sconces, claw foot bath tubs, and deep, dark hardwood floorings are complementary. Today, truly, a Victorian’s interior may range from old world charming to modern convenience to unique whimsy or a great combination of them all.
When choosing your home style, consider the Victorian as a possible match to your perfect home plan!