Victorian style was named after Queen Victoria (1819-1901) reigning for 64 years. Her happy marriage with Prince Albert and her strong personality determined the whole British society of the time.
The most characteristic features of Victorian style are family-centeredness, morals and home comfort. The wealth of the middle class became better, this way not only the nobility could afford to have a big house or buy expensive goods. Mass production appeared also which provided the purchasing of cheaper but quality materials and accessories (e.g. porcelain, upholstery fabrics).
Homes were transferred for protection of private life. Bedroom became a private area. The guests were received in the saloon, library or boudoir. Richly patterned curtains and carpets decorated the rooms, seating furniture had soft upholsteries and were comfortable. Women liked to make decorating objects by their own hands (e.g. bird nest and flower compositions, water-color paintings, needle-works, silhouettes), what’s more, decoupage, namely covering furniture and household objects with color pieces of papers, became fashionable also. The rooms were cluttered with furniture for providing to all the members of the family to find the favorite place. Fireplace provided the heating, gas lamps were used for lighting. Children commonly had a separated floor (mostly in the attic) where they could sleep and play. Family portraiture appeared in painting. Employing servants wasn’t the privilege of the nobility anymore. The servants had their place in a separate wing or in the basement, far from the life of the house, just as the serving rooms (kitchen, pantry, laundry). Hygiene became important also, although only a few houses had separate bathrooms but there was a washing cabinet with bowl and jug in every bedroom. The bathtub was also placed in the bedroom at the front of the fireplace for bathing. At this time the English flush toilet was widespread.
The World Exhibition in 1851 helped a lot to the trade of the country. People could meet the household and decorating objects and habits of remote lands. Later the Arts and Crafts movement brought back the golden age of handmade and unique products. Garden and gardening got an important role which was used for showing the wealth also. In terms of this, exotic plants and rare fruits were grown (e.g. pineapple, rhododendron). A kitchen garden was a must. Gothic had a revival in architecture and architectural elements.
This era has many beautiful features in style which create classic values and beauty in the modern society also. Use the help of an interior designer for creating a unique Victorian effect interior.