Victorian Architecture

The term "Victorian" refers to the reign of Queen Victoria in the mid to late 19^th century, and this architectural style was popular during and after this time.

Victorian homes have a distinct charm, decorated with geometric, machine-cut ornamentation in a way that resembles a quaint gingerbread house, such as the “Painted Ladies” of San Francisco.

Victorian homes are often tall and narrow with unique and complex rooflines. This vertical emphasis allowed them to be built in dense city neighborhoods where they were designed to impress.

The popularity of the Victorian style spread quickly throughout the British Isles and in North America, made possible by the Industrial Revolution. The development of new construction technology at this time rendered fanciful spindles and elaborate trim work by machine rather than by hand, speeding up the process and cutting down on costs considerably. This, combined with the affordability of wood and steel at the time allowed the ornate style to spread to middle and working-class families who were able to construct fanciful homes of their own.

With projecting circular turrets, tiny balconies, wraparound porches, and ornamental facades, Victorian homes often feel like mini castles or Gothic mansions. Victorians are effusive with charm, painted in multiple colors with details and millwork accents to spare. These homes invite you to have tea in bay window nooks or curl up with a book in a brightly painted turret.