Victorian Decorating
Overview
Victorian decorating is lavish, exuberant, and decadent. Though we're mixing eras, there is an aspect of "let them eat cake!" (then let them eat it again. And again.) about it. Although early Victorian decorating (circa 1837), often referred to as Georgian Simplicity, was predominantly subtle as opposed to its modern incarnations, which are taken from the indulgent latehome libraries grew in size. Interest in the outside world became a fixation for common people. Little details like these should be considered when selecting an aesthetic.
Basic Design Motifs
Before you go jumping into buying furniture and accessories, take some time to do research on Victorian design. There are three different approaches to decorating in this style: Early (Georgian Simplicity), Midit is best to know the material.
Foyer/Living Room
Sure, you've heard it time and time again that first impressions speak volumes. Well, the foyer and living room will make or break a guest's comfort level. Victorians found empty space distasteful and indicative of impoverishment: the masses were wealthier than they had ever been and felt less guilt for craving trivial knickknacks. The result was overtly overcrowded rooms. As time has passed, though, this overabundance has become associated with a feeling of clutter, and you should not completely disregard this sentiment. However, you can absolutely keep in line with current tastes while maintaining an antique design. In this way, you can probably cut back slightly on the amount of things you collect and instead use texture and color to add accents. Silky and thick fabrics should adorn windows and furniture, and decorative pillows can be placed on sofas and chairs.
Kitchen/Dining Room
The kitchen and dining room are secondary for entertaining, but once again, guests should feel comfort there. To create that atmosphere you can brighten things up by paying attention to the lighting fixtures you select: a chandelier over the dining room table will work wonders, for example. A china cabinet or two couldn't hurt as decoration, either.
Bedroom
Bathroom
Library/Study
One of the more sacred rooms in the house is the library. Here you will find the inherited family knowledge: data on the lineage and collected educational tomes. The dark tones of this room will signify that you've entered one of the more serious inner sanctums, so you'll want to pick rich shades of burgundy, mahogany, gold, or forest green.
Related Guides
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Chandeliers
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Antique Furnishings
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Victorian Bathroom Furniture
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Lighting Wall Sconces
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Home Furnishings and Decor
