The affluent Victorian home had a charm and a gentleness that created a warm living space. In order to reproduce the authentic look, in your own Victorian or reproduction house, there are several imported points to consider.
The English Victorian home exuded gentility; the lace and fine china look that we associate with Victoriana. In the US, bolder colour schemes were also often used.
-Curtains were necessary to reduce draughts and keep heat in. These were floor length, held open by elaborate and luxurious tassles. Made of heavy quality fabrics such as velvet, or silk damask, they were often in rich deep greens or reds.
-Paint was used on many surfaces. It was relatively expensive and so was a clear indicator to visitors that the home owner was well- to- do! Not only the walls, but also woodwork trims and ceilings were given particular treatment. Wallpapers coordinated with the colour scheme. If the family was working class, the choices were more limited, as to colours. White-wash was popular, which was watered down and so was more economical. It was especially popular as a finish on bedroom or kitchen walls. In the US, it was popular in 1885 to use vivid reds, oranges, yellows, and chocolate browns! This reflected the Victorian interest in the natural world. Reds and blues were also in fashion in San Franscisco! Rich colours were used on trims and walls.
-White gloss paint was never used, contrary to general perception, as it was not in existence at that time! It should not be used if you are aiming for authenticity.
-The parlour was the focal point of the home. It is where visitors were entertained, and was filled with the clutter of souvenirs collected on journeys, such as shells, shellwork pictures, and taxidermy! Lace was used as doilies, mantle runners, chair covers, or on tables, over velvets of differing textures. Ceiling roses were popular, often elabourate, and painted in a different colour to the rest of the ceiling, in order to stand out-and impress! The walls were also used as a focal point. A dado rail was used to prevent damage to the walls from furniture knocks. These divided the wall, and were often painted in rich reds or greens. Elaborate wallpaper was used above the rail. William Morris was one of the most prized designers of textiles and wallpapers for any home to exhibit! His works were elaborate and of the highest quality, and are very collectable today!
-Carpets were loosely laid, as rugs. The floor boards could be painted at the edges with dark stains, to blend with the edges of the rugs. Morris carpets were, again, highly prized.
