There are many different architectural designs of homes. Standard designs include Cape Cod, Colonial, Ranch, Tudor, and Contemporary. Each style has its unique features.
For example, Cape Cod homes are characterized by their steep roofs and large chimneys, while Colonial homes have symmetrical facades and classic details. Ranch homes are known for their single-story design, while Tudors often feature intricate brickwork and tall ceilings. This variety of designs makes certain houses stand out. However, it’s undeniable that a Victorian home is one of the most aesthetically pleasing homes out there.
Building a Victorian home means that you know the fundamental designs behind it. Here are some of the key features you should keep in mind when creating your own Victorian home.
Asymmetrical Design
The asymmetrical design isn’t all that appealing regarding architecture and design. This is because it doesn’t take advantage of the Golden Ratio.
The Golden Ratio is a mathematical theory that dictates how things should be proportioned to look aesthetically pleasing. Artists and architects have used this theory for centuries to create works of art and structures that are easy on the eye.
While most homes nowadays are designed with the Golden Ratio, Victorian homes were not. This is because the Victorians did not care about following any rules regarding design. Instead, they wanted their homes to be unique and different from anything else that was out there.
This lack of symmetry is one of the most defining features of a Victorian home. If you want your home to have that authentic Victorian feel, you must ensure it’s not symmetrical. Instead, it has different wings and projections, giving it a unique look. Victorians were all about individuality, so don’t be afraid to add personal touches to your home’s design.
Intricate and Decorative Details
Another defining feature of Victorian homes is the amount of intricate and decorative details. This is in stark contrast to the more minimalist designs popular today.
Victorians loved to show off their homes, and they did so by adding as many embellishments and decorations as possible. These details can be found in the home’s interior and exterior.
You’ll find things like stained glass windows, carved wooden trim, and ornate metalwork on the exterior. The interior of a Victorian home is just as lavish, with detailed plasterwork, hand-painted wallpaper, and opulent chandeliers.
If you want your home to have that natural Victorian feel, you must ensure it’s filled with these intricate details.
Towering Heights
Another defining feature of Victorian homes is their towering heights. These homes were designed to be grand and imposing, and they achieved this by being taller than the homes that came before them.
This height was achieved in a few different ways. One way was to add an extra story to the home. Another method was to build dormer windows into the roof, creating more space inside the home while adding to its overall height.
Whatever method you choose, ensure your home is tall enough to give off that grand and imposing feel.
Rich and Vibrant Colors
The final defining feature of a Victorian home is its vibrant colors. This contrasts with the more muted and subdued colors that are popular today.
Victorians loved to use bright and bold colors in their homes. They believed these colors added to the overall feeling of grandeur and opulence. Some of the most popular colors used in Victorian homes include deep reds, greens, blues, and yellows.
If you want your home to have that authentic Victorian look, you must ensure it’s filled with these rich and vibrant colors.
The Challenges of Building a Victorian Home
Victorian homes are pretty standard in the United States but aren’t as common as the other architectural designs mentioned above. This is because they are one of the most sophisticated homes to build.
If you’re finding it hard to build a Victorian home, your best option is to look for a house and land for sale with this kind of design. Many of them are being sold right now, and some are being sold at a much lower price due to their age. It might be wiser to purchase and flip one of these homes instead of starting from scratch.
Overall, Victorian homes are defined by their lack of symmetry, intricate details, tall stature, and rich colors. If you’re looking to build a home with that authentic Victorian feel, you need to ensure that it includes all of these defining features. However, it’s important to note that Victorian homes can be challenging to build. So if you can’t build one, buy one instead.
