With so much inspiration at our fingertips in today’s world, it’s no wonder trends can come and go in the blink of an eye. But rather than constantly running to catch up with the latest fashions, it might just be more effective to stop and take a look behind us. Because to achieve a truly timeless interior design, we must first reflect on the success of styles past. In this blog post, we’ll be diving into the eternally-opulent features of Victorian decor. We’ll also look at why this revival is so much more than just another passing trend for autumn/winter 2023.
What is Victorian Decor?
Queen Victoria’s reign spanned from 1837 to 1901. It was a time of great wealth for Britain, and expansion of its empire. As a result, the country experienced rapid advancement in science, industry and the arts. Not wanting to be outdone by newly-imported goods – and suddenly inundated with new sources of inspiration – British designers saw it necessary to show off their skills. And thus, the Victorian era became a period for creative expression and excessive ornamentation. This was especially so when it came to interiors!
How to Create a Victorian Style Interior
But recreating this look is not as simple as combining all sorts of stylistic elements and hoping for the best. The resurgence of Victorian decor presents the perfect opportunity to experiment and explore your own taste. But it also requires careful curation of pieces both classic and contemporary. The outcome? A beautiful, harmonious interior design that’s as wonderfully unique as you are.
Let’s look at some of the hallmarks of Victorian Decor, and how to incorporate them into your home.
Ornate Furnishings
Ornate furnishings, such as wingback chairs and elaborate cabinetry, are an essential part of Victorian decor. In today’s revival, we see a shift towards the incorporation of antique and antique-inspired furniture as accent pieces. Tufted headboards, deep-buttoned sofas and grand chandeliers offer a dramatic focus in more modern style settings. Alternatively, pairing these items with rich colours and dark woods will allow you to lean deeper into this dark and luxurious interior design trend.
Jewel tones, such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are inherently opulent, and therefore particularly great for adding depth and drama!
Vintage Wallpaper and Rich Textiles
Victorian fashion was heavily influenced by India due to trade, and Victoria’s own interest in Indian culture. As a result, rich Indian textiles, in addition to ornate patterns and textures, play a key role in recreating this look. Wallpapers with floral prints, motifs, damasks, and stripes, combined with lush fabrics like velvet, silk, and brocade, help to embody the sumptuous atmosphere of Victorian decor.
Intricate Woodwork
Intricate woodwork, the likes of crown mouldings, wainscoting, and corbels, is a quintessential feature in Victorian decor. While many modern homes may not have these architectural details, they can be introduced with decorative trim and applique. Alternatively, intricate woodwork can be incorporated through beautifully hand-carved furniture, fixtures or fittings. This addition brings a feeling of classic elegance to contemporary spaces, marrying the old and the new with remarkable finesse.
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Eclectic Accents
The Victorian era is famous for its eclecticism – from art collections to curiosity cabinets. Which is why maximalists in particular are embracing this concept with open arms. Ornate frames for mirrors and paintings, antique trinkets, bold colours, and clashing prints all aid in filing spaces with character and charm. This eccentric approach allows homeowners to display their unique personalities and tell their own story through Victorian inspired decor.
Modern Victorian Fusion
The true beauty of the Victorian decor revival lies within its adaptability. One can fuse Victorian elements – both antique and reproduction – with current aesthetics for a harmonious and sophisticated outcome. Sleek and contemporary furniture can be juxtaposed against Victorian wallpaper or ornate mirrors to strike a balance between old and new. This merging of styles creates a space that is cosy, luxurious, and functional for modern lifestyle, making it highly appealing to a wide range of design enthusiasts.
The growing popularity of Victorian decor in 2023/24 is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic design. By reimagining the opulence and cultural richness of Victorian decor in a contemporary context, you can create a space that is as timeless as it is wonderfully unique. So, if you’ve been thinking about updating your home, why not look back at the grand Victorian style for some inspiration?
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