Victorian interior design blends crisp elegance with understated grandeur for a subtle finish that complements modern living perfectly. Whether you’re working with a Victorian period property or want to recreate the look in a newer build, here are a few pointers to consider…
What is Victorian Interior Design?
This style that originated in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era which lasted from 1837 to 1901. Traditional Victorian design is characterised by an abundance of pattern and ornamentation combined with the use of jewel tones and luxe textiles.
Some key elements include: Rich fabrics such as velvet, brocade and damask. Heavy furniture; often made of dark wood and heavily carved or decorated. Wall coverings such as patterned wallpaper and colourful artwork . Ornamentation such as chandeliers, statement fireplaces and decorative mirrors. Plus, jewel tones featured in fabrics, furniture and wall coverings
There’s a misconception that Victorian interior design is fussy, busy or even over-the-top. That isn’t the case. While it is a bold (and sometimes eclectic) choice, the end result can be classic, elegant and sophisticated.
Can a Victorian-Inspired Look Work In Any Property?
Naturally, Victorian interior design is at its most authentic in traditional Victorian properties.
It’s so popular that many people actively search for properties with original Victorian features. These include large porch areas, bay windows and high roofs. Victorian properties also feature trends from the time period. For example, red brickwork, tiled flooring and stained glass detailing.
But the Victorian look is just as much about the decoration as it is about starting with a Victorian property as your base. In fact, the three central elements to getting the look aren’t anything to do with architecture. Instead it’s all about pattern, colour palette and textile choice.
Why is Natural Light Important?
As Victorian interior design features richer, darker tones it’s important to brighten up rooms with the correct lighting. This includes installing the right doors and windows.
Historically, Victorian homes often had a lot of windows, so daylight was abundant. This stopped homes feeling cramped, cluttered or dark. Natural light also helps to show off colours, textures and patterns at their best, so you can get the most from investing in the core elements of Victorian design.
When it comes to modern homes or refurbished Victorian properties, glazed doors are the ultimate essential. They help to maximise space so that furniture and artwork has room to breathe. Glazed doors also let in more light for an effortless, breezy finish.
How To Get Started With Victorian Interior Design
Evoke the spirit of the Victorian era and infuse it with modern touches to create a living spaces that’s stylish yet authentic. Mix the opulent with the clean, the classic with the contemporary, and create your own unique version of modern Victorian grandeur.
Colour Palette
Victorians loved shades like emerald green, burgundy, and navy. Modern interpretations soften these shades with lighter accents or use them as bold pops of colour against a crisp white backdrop.
Furniture Fusion
Don’t be afraid to mix and match. Pair a classic wingback chair with a sleek mid-century coffee table. Reupholster an antique chaise in a contemporary fabric for a fresh look.
Flooring Drama
Victorian homes often boasted dramatic patterned floors. Modern takes use bold tiles, dark wood stains, or statement rugs with geometric patterns to add a touch of the past.
Wallpaper Wisdom
Wallpaper was a defining feature of Victorian interiors. Today’s options offer a more modern twist, with bold floral prints reimagined in a minimalist style or textured wallpapers adding depth and dimension to a room.
Exclusive Insight From A Victorian Home Expert
Lianne Baker (who shares her property journey with almost 20,000 followers on Instagram while hosting a popular period home sharing account) says the Victorian interior design trend isn’t going anywhere:
In a world with lots of new identical housing estates and homes that have flat walls and wall to wall beige, Victorian decor has been making a comeback from people seeking a bit more texture, colour and statement interiors in their homes. We love seeing how people have adapted and modernised interiors associated with this period to suit their own homes, both new and old.
Lianne Baker AKA @riponhouse1887 on Instagram and host of @myvictorianhouselove
Embrace The Unexpected With A Victorian Home Refresh
Modern Victorian interior design isn’t about rigid rules. It’s about creating a space that reflects your taste. Love Victorian floral patterns? Use them on throw pillows instead of wallpapering an entire room. Have a collection of vintage books? Showcase them on a minimalist bookshelf.
Follow these simple tips to create a Victorian-inspired space that’s timeless yet totally on-trend. Browse our collection of engineered solid oak Victorian internal doors or get in touch with our customer service team for bespoke product recommendations and friendly advice.
Give @myvictorianhouselove a follow for even more inspiration and ideas.
