Decorating a Victorian Home

What Makes Decorating Your Victorian Home So Unique?

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With their ornate architecture, intricate details, and timeless charm, Victorian homes are a delight for anyone who loves historical aesthetics. Decorating a Victorian home offers a unique opportunity to honor the past while expressing personal style. The distinctive elements of Victorian decor—rich colors, lavish textures, and eclectic furnishings—create a sense of elegance and nostalgia that sets these homes apart from more contemporary spaces. Here’s what makes decorating your Victorian home so unique:

1. Architectural Details as Focal Points

Victorian homes are celebrated for their architectural details, such as high ceilings, ornate moldings, stained glass windows, and decorative fireplaces. These features are not just background elements but become the focal points of your decor. When decorating a Victorian home, it’s essential to highlight and complement these details rather than overshadow them. For instance, using period-appropriate light fixtures or mirrors with intricate frames can enhance the architectural beauty of the space.

2. A Celebration of Color and Pattern

Victorian decor is known for its bold use of color and pattern. Unlike the minimalist and neutral tones often seen in modern homes, Victorian interiors embrace deep, rich hues like burgundy, emerald green, navy blue, and gold. Wallpapers with intricate patterns, such as damask, floral, or paisley, are standard and can add a layer of sophistication and warmth to the rooms. The key to Victorian color schemes is layering—combining various textures and patterns to create a cohesive yet dynamic look.

3. Emphasis on Textures and Fabrics

Victorian interiors are a tactile experience, with a strong emphasis on luxurious textures and fabrics. Velvet, brocade, lace, and heavy drapery are staples of Victorian decor, often found in upholstery, curtains, and accessories. These fabrics add a sense of opulence and coziness to the space, inviting you to see and feel the decor’s richness. When choosing textiles, consider the weight, pattern, and how they interact with the light in your home.

4. Mixing Eclectic Furnishings

Victorian decor is characterized by its eclectic furnishings, often drawing from different periods and styles. Furniture pieces are typically ornate, with detailed woodwork, curved lines, and plush upholstery. Antiques or reproductions are ideal for achieving an authentic Victorian look, but you can also mix in modern pieces if done thoughtfully. The goal is to create a layered, lived-in feel that reflects Victorian interiors’ collected and curated nature.

5. Accessorizing with Intent

Accessories play a crucial role in Victorian decor. Items such as porcelain vases, intricate lamps, ornate picture frames, and collections of books or curiosities add personality and charm to the space. In a Victorian home, accessories are not merely decorative; they tell a story and contribute to the overall narrative of the room. When decorating, consider your display pieces’ historical significance and aesthetic value.

6. Creating Intimate, Purposeful Spaces

Victorian homes often feature multiple smaller rooms, each with a distinct purpose. Unlike open-concept modern homes, Victorian interiors celebrate the idea of defined spaces—parlors, libraries, dining rooms, and drawing rooms. Decorating a Victorian home allows you to create intimate and purposeful spaces that cater to specific activities, each with its own distinct decor. This approach not only enhances the functionality of the home but also adds to its overall charm and character.

7. Honoring the Past While Adding Personal Touches

One of the most rewarding aspects of decorating a Victorian home is the opportunity to honor the past while adding your personal touches. Whether preserving original features or incorporating family heirlooms, Victorian decor allows for a deep connection to history and personal heritage. However, it’s also essential to balance tradition with comfort and practicality. Modern conveniences can be integrated subtly without detracting from the home’s historical charm.

8. Lighting as a Decorative Element

In Victorian decor, lighting is functional and a critical decorative element. Chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps with stained glass shades or ornate bases add to the space’s ambiance. The soft, warm glow of Victorian lighting creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making the home feel like a retreat from the outside world.

Decorating a Victorian home is a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to indulge in a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and history. It’s about creating a space that feels grand and intimate, where every detail—from the intricate woodwork to the plush fabrics—contributes to a sense of timeless elegance. By honoring the past and embracing the eclectic nature of Victorian decor, you can transform your home into a true reflection of Victorian charm and your style.

Buying and Restoring a Victorian Home in the United States: Data, Statistics, and Costs

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Victorian homes, characterized by their ornate detailing, gabled roofs, and historical charm, have captured the imagination of homebuyers and renovators alike. These architectural gems, typically built between the mid-19th century and early 20th century, offer a unique blend of craftsmanship and style that modern homes often need to improve. However, buying and restoring a Victorian home comes with its own set of challenges and costs. This article explores the data and statistics on purchasing and restoring Victorian homes in the United States, providing potential buyers with a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

Market Overview: Buying a Victorian Home

The market for Victorian homes is niche but active, with a dedicated group of enthusiasts seeking these properties for their historic charm and unique architectural details. According to real estate data, the average cost of a Victorian home in the United States can vary widely depending on the property’s location, size, and condition.

  1. Price Range:
    • Victorian homes in urban areas such as San Francisco, Boston, and New York can range from $1 million to over $5 million due to their prime locations and high demand.
    • In smaller towns or rural areas, Victorian homes may be more affordable. Depending on the condition and level of preservation, they range from $200,000 to $800,000.
  2. Location Impact:
    • California: Known for its concentration of Victorian homes, particularly in San Francisco, where prices are typically higher due to location desirability.
    • Northeast: States like Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New York have many Victorian homes, with prices reflecting the historical value and market demand of these areas.
    • Midwest and South: Cities like St. Louis, Savannah, and New Orleans offer more budget-friendly Victorian homes, often needing significant restoration.

Restoration Costs: A Detailed Breakdown

Restoring a Victorian home is a labor of love that requires time and financial commitment. The home’s condition can influence restoration costs, the extent of renovations needed, and the level of historical accuracy desired. Here is a breakdown of typical restoration expenses:

  1. Initial Assessment and Inspection:
    • A comprehensive home inspection for a Victorian property may cost between $500 and $1,000. This inspection should include structural assessments, electrical and plumbing evaluations, and checking for potential issues like lead paint or asbestos.
  2. Structural Repairs:
    • Victorian homes often require foundation repairs, roof replacements, or updates to support modern building codes. Depending on the severity of the issues, structural repairs can range from $10,000 to $100,000.
  3. Electrical and Plumbing Upgrades:
    • Bringing a Victorian home’s electrical and plumbing systems up to code is essential for safety and functionality. Electrical rewiring can cost between $8,000 and $15,000, while plumbing updates can add another $10,000 to $20,000.
  4. Restoring Historical Features:
    • One of the most appealing aspects of Victorian homes is their intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and period-specific details. Restoring these features can be costly, with custom woodwork repairs ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 and stained glass restoration costing $1,000 to $5,000 per window.
  5. Interior and Exterior Finishes:
    • Restoring original finishes, such as plaster walls, period-appropriate wallpaper, or vintage tiles, can add significant costs. Interior finish work might range from $20,000 to $50,000, while exterior painting and repairs can cost an additional $15,000 to $30,000.
  6. Landscaping and Exterior Work:
    • Enhancing the curb appeal of a Victorian home often involves restoring gardens, walkways, and exterior facades. Depending on the scope of the work, landscaping can cost from $5,000 to $20,000.
  7. Permits and Compliance:
    • Renovating a historic property often requires special permits, which can cost from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on local regulations. Working with historical preservation societies or complying with historical district requirements may add to costs and timelines.

Total Restoration Cost Estimates

Based on the various factors outlined, the total cost of restoring a Victorian home can range from $100,000 to over $500,000. This range depends heavily on the home’s initial condition, the extent of the desired renovations, and whether the restoration aims for historical accuracy or modern updates.

  1. Light Restoration:
    • The costs for structurally sound homes that need cosmetic updates and minor repairs might range from $50,000 to $100,000.
  2. Moderate Restoration:
    • This includes more extensive repairs, such as updating systems, restoring historical details, and some structural work, typically costing between $150,000 and $300,000.
  3. Complete Overhaul:
    • Costs can exceed $500,000 for homes that require full-scale renovations, including structural repairs, system updates, and meticulous restoration of historical features.

Investment and Return: Is It Worth It?

Restoring a Victorian home can be a rewarding investment both financially and personally. While the initial costs may seem high, restored Victorian homes often see significant increases in property value, mainly if they are located in desirable neighborhoods or historic districts. These homes’ unique charm and historical significance also make them appealing for resale, with many buyers willing to pay a premium for a well-restored property.

However, potential buyers and restorers should approach Victorian homes with a clear understanding of the time, effort, and money involved. Working with professionals experienced in historical restorations and having a realistic budget and timeline can help ensure the restoration process is both successful and satisfying.

Buying and restoring a Victorian home in the United States is more than just a real estate transaction; it’s a commitment to preserving a piece of history. While the costs can be substantial, the result is a unique, character-filled home that is a testament to a bygone era. For those passionate about history and architecture, the investment in a Victorian home can be financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

Timeless Beauty of Victorian Homes

The Timeless Beauty of a Victorian Home

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Few styles in architecture have the enduring charm and historical significance of Victorian homes. Named after Queen Victoria, who reigned over the British Empire from 1837 to 1901, these homes reflect the luxury, craftsmanship, and eclectic design principles of the 19th century. Their timeless beauty continues to captivate homeowners, architects, and history enthusiasts, making Victorian homes a cherished part of architectural heritage.

 

Architectural Characteristics

 Victorian homes are known for their intricate details and diverse styles, ranging from Gothic Revival’s grandeur to Queen Anne’s whimsy. These homes often feature steeply pitched roofs, ornate gables, and bay windows, each contributing to a visually striking exterior. The use of decorative trim, known as “gingerbread” detailing, adds a touch of elegance and complexity to the facade, making each Victorian home a work of art.

 One of the most distinctive features of Victorian homes is their asymmetrical design. Unlike the symmetry commonly found in earlier architectural styles, Victorian homes embrace irregular shapes and varied rooflines. This gives them a dynamic and lively appearance, as though each house has its unique personality.

 

Interior Splendor

 The beauty of a Victorian home extends beyond its exterior. Inside, these homes are often just as elaborate, with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and grand staircases. High ceilings and large windows allow natural light to flood the rooms, enhancing the sense of space and grandeur.

Victorian interiors often feature a mix of rich, dark woods, such as mahogany and oak, along with luxurious materials like velvet and brocade. Ornate wallpaper, often in floral or damask patterns, adds to the sense of luxury. With intricately carved mantels, fireplaces serve as focal points in many rooms, providing warmth and a sense of intimacy.

 

A Blend of Styles

 One of the reasons Victorian homes remain so captivating is their ability to blend various architectural styles into a cohesive whole. Gothic Revival, with its pointed arches and intricate stonework, brings a sense of drama and history. Queen Anne adds whimsy and charm with its playful turrets, wraparound porches, and colorful facades. Italianate influences, seen in the use of brackets under eaves and tall, narrow windows, contribute to the elegance and refinement of these homes.

This eclecticism allows Victorian homes to stand out in any neighborhood, offering a visual feast that invites admiration from all who pass by. Each home is a unique expression of its time, yet remains timeless in its appeal.

 

The Enduring Appeal

 The Victorian era was a time of significant social and technological change, which is reflected in the period’s architecture. Advances in building technology allowed for more elaborate designs and greater accessibility to decorative elements. The Industrial Revolution also allowed more people to afford homes with these elaborate features, leading to the widespread popularity of the Victorian style.

Today, Victorian homes are prized not only for their historical significance but also for their adaptability. Many homeowners find that these houses, with their spacious layouts and solid construction, are well-suited to modern living. Renovations and restorations allow for preserving original features while incorporating contemporary amenities, ensuring that Victorian homes remain relevant and functional.

The timeless beauty of a Victorian home lies in its ability to evoke a sense of history while remaining adaptable to the present needs. With their intricate details, varied styles, and rich interiors, these homes continue to enchant and inspire. Whether preserved in their original state or thoughtfully updated for modern living, Victorian homes stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic architecture. Their charm transcends time, making them houses and cherished pieces of living history.

Original Victorian Paintings in Your Victorian House

Why Original Victorian Paintings Belong in Your Victorian Home

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When you walk into a Victorian home, you’re immediately struck by its unique blend of grandeur, charm, and intricate detail. The architecture, characterized by ornate moldings, stained glass, and rich woodwork, tells a story of a bygone era. The decor must resonate with the exact authenticity to fully immerse oneself in this historical ambiance. One of the most compelling ways to achieve this is by adorning your Victorian home with original paintings. Here’s why it makes perfect sense.

Aesthetic Harmony

Victorian homes are celebrated for their luxury and attention to detail. The architecture of this period often features elaborate patterns, rich textures, and a sense of dramatic flair. With their distinct styles and subjects, original Victorian paintings complement these elements perfectly. The art of the time typically features themes of romanticism, nature, and domestic life, rendered in lush colors and intricate brushwork that resonate with the period’s aesthetic. When placed in a Victorian home, these paintings don’t just decorate—they harmonize with the surrounding architecture, creating a cohesive and immersive environment.

Historical Authenticity

A Victorian home is a time capsule—a space where history is remembered and lived. By incorporating original Victorian paintings, you are adding layers of historical authenticity. These pieces are not merely decorative; they are genuine artifacts from the era in which your home was conceived. Each painting carries the essence of the time—reflecting the social values, cultural interests, and artistic movements that influenced Victorian society. Owning and displaying these artworks allows you to preserve and celebrate the historical integrity of your home.

Cultural Connection

The Victorian era was a time of significant cultural and social change. Art from this period often reflects the concerns, aspirations, and values of the people who lived through it. By displaying original Victorian paintings, you connect your home not only to the period’s aesthetics but also to its cultural and intellectual currents. Whether it’s a serene landscape, a portrait, or a still life, each painting offers a window into the world of the Victorians, providing insight into their daily lives, beliefs, and the artistic trends of the time.

Rarity

Original Victorian paintings are not just decorations; they are value-added works of art that can be emotionally rewarding. Unlike modern reproductions, which may lack the depth and texture of original works, Victorian paintings carry the weight of history and the artist’s unique touch. Over the years, these pieces have become rarer, making them a beautiful one-of-a-kind addition to your Victorian home.

Personal Connection to the Past

Owning an original Victorian painting is like owning a piece of the past. These artworks have endured through decades, sometimes centuries, and passed down through generations. By placing them in your home, you are preserving history and creating a personal connection to it. The idea that people from a different time once admired these pieces adds a layer of depth and significance to your living space. It’s a tangible link to the past, offering a sense of continuity and tradition.

Unique Character

Every original Victorian painting is unique, carrying its own story, style, and presence. Unlike modern prints or mass-produced artwork, these paintings are one-of-a-kind creations, each with its character and history. By displaying original Victorian art, you are bringing a unique personality into your home that cannot be replicated. This uniqueness adds to the character of your home, making it a truly distinctive and personal space.

Enhancing the Atmosphere

Victorian homes are known for their warm, inviting atmospheres, often created by the rich colors, intricate designs, and carefully curated furnishings. Original Victorian paintings play a crucial role in enhancing this atmosphere. Whether it’s the soft glow of candlelight reflecting off a portrait or how a landscape painting complements the natural light streaming through a stained glass window, these artworks contribute to the overall mood and ambiance of the home. They help create a space that feels both lived-in and timeless, where history comes alive.

A Victorian home is more than just a house; it’s a piece of history, a work of art. Original Victorian paintings are a natural choice to honor and enhance this unique space. They bring aesthetic harmony, historical authenticity, and a deep cultural connection to your home. They offer emotional rewards, and as unique artifacts, they add character and atmosphere to your living space. By choosing to adorn your Victorian home with these original artworks, you are not just decorating—you are curating a space that is rich in history, culture, and beauty.

Living in a Victorian House

The Joy of Living in a Historic Victorian Home

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There’s something magical about stepping into a home that tells stories of generations past, with every creak of the floorboards, ornate woodwork, and stately facade offering a window into history. For those fortunate enough to live in a Victorian home, it’s not just about owning a piece of property—it’s about becoming a custodian of history, art, and culture. The Victorian era, named after Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901), gave birth to some of the most iconic architectural designs. These homes, often resplendent with intricate details and grandeur, evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. But beyond their aesthetic beauty, what truly makes living in a historic Victorian home a joyous experience? Let’s explore.

Timeless Beauty and Craftsmanship

Victorian homes stand out for their unmatched craftsmanship. Each home is a work of art, from the stained glass windows to the gingerbread trim, wrought-iron fences, and wrap-around porches. Modern architecture often values simplicity and efficiency, but Victorian homes celebrate complexity and artistry. You are greeted daily by intricate moldings, carved wood staircases, and high ceilings that inspire admiration for the time and effort that went into building them.
Living in a Victorian home allows you to appreciate the detail of handmade construction, which is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced, mass-produced world. Every corner, column, and cornice has its personality, giving your home character in ways that newer homes often lack.

Stepping into a Different Era

Living in a Victorian home is like traveling back in time without leaving your doorstep. These homes are physical remnants of a bygone era, complete with the quirks and eccentricities of the 19th century. From fireplaces in nearly every room to hidden staircases and large bay windows, you can almost feel the presence of past inhabitants as you walk through the halls. It’s an experience that bridges the gap between history and the present, making your home a living museum.
Moreover, Victorian homes often inspire their owners to embrace some of the lifestyle choices of the past, from collecting period furniture and decor to adopting sustainable living practices, such as hanging clothes on a line or growing an expansive garden. It’s a way of simplifying life and appreciating the beauty in everyday moments, something that the fast pace of modern life often erodes.

The Charm of Quirky Layouts

If you’ve ever toured a Victorian home, one of the first things you’ll notice is how different the floor plans are from today’s open-concept layouts. Victorian houses were designed with specific purposes for each room—formal parlors for entertaining, libraries for reading, separate kitchens, and servant’s quarters tucked away. While this may seem odd by modern standards, it’s part of the charm. Each room feels like a world, creating a sense of coziness and intimacy.
Living in a home with a compartmentalized layout encourages you to embrace the purpose of each space. The living room becomes a dedicated space for relaxation, the dining room for family gatherings, and the porch for quiet reflection. This segmentation offers a unique way to appreciate your surroundings without the distractions of multitasking or blending activities.

A Connection to the Community

Owning a Victorian home often means becoming part of a community that values historic preservation. Many neighborhoods with these homes work diligently to maintain the integrity and beauty of the area, and local historical societies often play an active role. Residents share a pride in keeping the neighborhood’s history alive, which fosters a sense of camaraderie.
Living in a Victorian home connects you to others who appreciate the past. This often leads to close-knit communities that are invested in the care and upkeep of their historic environment. Whether through house tours, restoration projects, or neighborhood events, a unique social fabric is woven around historic homes.

Restoration as a Labor of Love

Owning a historic Victorian home has its challenges. Unlike modern homes, maintenance and restoration often require specialized knowledge and care. Original features like sash windows, ornate plasterwork, or hardwood floors may need repair, and finding suitable materials and artisans can be labor-intensive. But for those passionate about preservation, this is part of the joy. Each restoration project is a chance to breathe new life into the home while staying true to its historic roots.
Whether it’s discovering original wallpaper hidden beneath layers of paint or uncovering an antique fireplace that had been sealed off for decades, restoring a Victorian home is like solving a mystery. These homes reward patience and diligence, and the satisfaction that comes from preserving a piece of history is immeasurable.

A Personal Sanctuary with Stories

While the world outside constantly changes, your Victorian home remains a steadfast sanctuary filled with stories. There’s comfort in living among the details of the past, where you can appreciate craftsmanship, design, and history in the quiet corners of your home. Whether curling up with a book in a sunlit turret or sipping tea in a flower-filled garden, life in a Victorian home invites you to slow down, reflect, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
These homes encourage you to become more than just a homeowner; they invite you to be a part of something larger—a living tradition of architectural beauty, history, and community. Victorian homes remind us of the joy found in art, heritage, and the passing of time.

Owning and living in a historic Victorian home is an experience like no other. It’s a lifestyle that combines appreciation for the past with the joy of craftsmanship, community, and the creation of memories in a space that has already seen so many. While modern homes offer convenience and innovation, Victorian homes offer something more profound—a connection to history and a timeless beauty that never fades.

Restoring Victorian Houses

Restoring Victorian Houses: A Journey Back in Time

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Our home, the Barclay Mansion, is in historic Bedford, Pennsylvania, and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978.  In addition to being our home, the Barclay Mansion is also the site of our business, Bedford Fine Art Gallery, where we always have over 300 authentic, beautiful Victorian paintings for sale.

The Barclay Mansion was built in 1889, during the late Victorian period. Although the house is Victorian in age, it is reminiscent of the Renaissance Classical tradition with Italianate style details. The low central tower, with its curved and stilted segmented archwork above the triple and double windows, creates a distinctive front to the house. The brickwork on the central tower has pilaster-like details. The brick pilasters rise to the roof line and are topped with heavy scroll-like bracketing. This late Victorian-style bracketing is repeated in the porch roof detail and around the structure’s eaves. The house is 2 1/2 stories high and is built of brick. The home’s central core has 12 large rooms, two deep in double bays about the central hall and stairway on three floors. The rear wing has six smaller rooms on two floors, serving as servant-butler quarters, a pantry, and a kitchen. A two-bay full basement has a base course of coarse stone, topped with brick perimeter walls. The house has central support from two rows of three brick archways.

The house has a hipped roof with jerkin-head gables on the ends and a gable on the low central tower. Chimneys are incorporated into the end gables with distinctive flare and taper in brickwork detail. Two additional similarly detailed chimneys rise from the rear wing. There are nine fireplaces, eight with slate hearths, marble mantels, and trim. Crafted brass trim and metal liners to the hearths are distinctively Victorian. The large kitchen hearth was closed over with shelving for many years when the house functioned as the Bedford County Library; however, this façade has been removed to reveal the original brickwork.

The windows are double, and there are large pane lights on the front of the house; there are triple windows in the central tower. Single windows are elsewhere. The windows have large white wooden lintels, square arching over lights, and massive wooden sills beneath. The southeast end of the house has a carved wooden floral motif in the lintels. There are fluted pilasters in the double window sets. The double doors of the main entrance have no transoms, but they have large, square, frosted-etched panes at the top. The interior doors of the front of the house are of similar design. In addition, the carved wooden floral motif is found on the doors and in the trim detail. The rear wing entrance is a single door and has a three-light transom. The central hall has massive walnut stairway railings, and trim detail abounds in every room. Craftsmanship in detail and trim work is found throughout the house.

Victorian houses, with their ornate architecture and rich History, offer homeowners the unique opportunity to own a piece of the past. These beautiful homes, often adorned with intricate details, steep roofs, and large windows, can be stunning showcases of craftsmanship and History. Restoring a Victorian house, however, is not for the faint of heart. It requires careful planning, respect for the original design, and a willingness to blend the old with the new. In this article, we will explore the essential steps involved in restoring a Victorian home, what makes the effort so rewarding, and why original authentic Victorian art is the perfect complement to your restored historic Victorian house.

Understanding Victorian Architecture

Victorian architecture refers to the styles that emerged during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837–1901). The period encompasses a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic Revival, Queen Anne, and Italianate. Each of these styles is characterized by ornate decorative elements, intricate woodwork, and asymmetrical facades. Restoring a Victorian home often involves understanding which style your house belongs to and what specific features are significant to its design.

Key architectural elements of Victorian homes may include:

  • Decorative Trimwork: Often called “gingerbread,” these are intricate wood carvings found on gables, porches, and eaves.
  • Stained Glass Windows: Colorful, hand-crafted windows that provide character and charm.
  • Bay Windows: Large, projecting windows that bring in ample light and create a sense of spaciousness.
  • Tower or Turrets: Circular or angular additions that give the house a castle-like appearance.
  • Mansard Roofs: Often seen in Second Empire-style Victorian homes, these roofs have two slopes and are covered in slate tiles.

Each of these features contributes to the overall grandeur of the home, and restoring them can be a major part of the project.

Planning the Restoration

Before embarking on any major restoration, it is essential to research the home’s History. This includes understanding its original floor plan, materials, and previous alterations. Many Victorian homes have undergone several changes over the years, and the goal is to restore as much of the original character as possible while accommodating modern needs.

A restoration plan should include:

  • Historical Research: Check local archives, historical societies, and libraries for records about the original construction and any previous renovations.
  • Budgeting: Restoration can be costly. A thorough budget should include not only the cost of materials and labor but also unexpected repairs (e.g., dealing with lead paint, asbestos, or structural issues).
  • Hiring Specialists: Restoration projects often require specialized skills, from plaster repair to wood restoration and stained glass restoration. Finding artisans experienced in working with historical homes is key to a successful project.
  • Permits and Regulations: Victorian homes often fall under historic preservation laws, meaning certain guidelines must be followed to maintain the house’s historic status. Local historical commissions may need to approve your plans, especially if they involve exterior changes.  For example, we had to go through the Historical Architectural Review Board and Bedford Borough Council to get approval for the color “white” paint we used for the exterior since our home is in the Historic District of Bedford.

Restoring the Exterior

The exterior of a Victorian home is often its most defining feature. Restoring it can involve repairing or replacing wood siding, repainting, and fixing architectural details like moldings and cornices. One of the most important aspects of exterior restoration is the paint job. Many Victorian houses originally featured bold, multi-color schemes to highlight their intricate architectural details.

  • Choosing the Right Colors: The original colors of the house can often be determined by scraping away layers of paint. Many paint companies offer “historic” color palettes specifically designed to match the vibrant schemes used during the Victorian era. Popular shades include dark greens, burgundy, mustard yellow, and creams.
  • Repairing Woodwork: The decorative trim and siding are often made of wood, which can deteriorate over time. Replacing damaged sections with historically accurate materials and designs is essential to maintaining the integrity of the house.
  • Windows and Doors: Restoring original wood-framed windows is preferable to replacing them with modern ones. If the windows must be replaced, reproduction windows that match the historical designs will be available.

Interior Restoration

Inside a Victorian home, you’ll find features like high ceilings, elaborate moldings, and antique fixtures that can often be preserved or restored. However, Victorian homes may require updates to electrical systems, plumbing, and insulation, which should be done with care to avoid damaging the original structure.

  • Plaster and Molding: Plaster walls were common in Victorian homes, and preserving or repairing the original plaster was often a priority. Restoring moldings and ceiling medallions adds to the historical authenticity of the house.
  • Fireplaces and Mantels: Many Victorian homes have multiple fireplaces, often with ornate mantels. Restoring these fireplaces to working condition, or at least maintaining their appearance, adds warmth and character to the home.
  • Flooring: Original hardwood floors are a highly prized feature of Victorian homes. Restoring them may involve refinishing the wood or replacing sections with period-appropriate materials.
  • Lighting: Victorian homes were often designed for gas lamps, so modernizing the lighting system while preserving the aesthetic of the fixtures can be a delicate balance. Reproduction light fixtures that mimic the look of gas lamps but use electricity are available.

Blending Old with New

While historical accuracy is important in Victorian restoration, so is livability. Modern conveniences such as heating, air conditioning, and kitchen appliances are essential for most homeowners. The challenge is incorporating these modern amenities in a way that doesn’t detract from the period charm.

  • Kitchens and Bathrooms: These rooms will likely need the most updating to suit modern needs. However, there are many ways to maintain the Victorian feel in these spaces. For instance, clawfoot tubs, vintage-style fixtures, and period-appropriate tile work can keep a Victorian aesthetic while offering modern functionality.
  • Technology Integration: Installing modern electrical systems, smart home features, or energy-efficient upgrades like insulation and windows can be done discreetly without compromising the historical integrity of the home.

Preserving History for the Future

Restoring a Victorian house is more than just a renovation project—it’s a labor of love that preserves History for future generations. By maintaining the architectural integrity and character of these homes, homeowners contribute to the preservation of historical neighborhoods and architectural heritage. It’s an investment in both beauty and History, bringing the craftsmanship of the past back to life.

While restoring a Victorian home can be challenging, the rewards are immense. The satisfaction of living in a meticulously restored piece of History, combined with the opportunity to showcase unique architecture and design, makes Victorian house restoration a truly fulfilling endeavor.

Authentic Original Victorian Art for your restored Victorian home

After your labor of love restoring your Victorian house to its full glory, doesn’t it make sense to decorate it with original authentic Victorian paintings?  Visit our website:

  www.bedfordfineartgallery.com 

to fall in love with beautiful, original, authentic Victorian art that will please now and for many years to come.