What Are Victorian Houses? Everything to Know About This Architecture Style

This article details the extensive renovation of a Victorian house in London by Charly and Jonny, a couple with two young children. The house had remained untouched for nearly four decades, presenting a significant challenge that the family embraced with a desire to blend beauty with utility and avoid conventional design trends. They enlisted the help of Smith Brooke Architects and interior designer Emma Ainscough to create a home that is both personal and highly functional. A central aim of the renovation was to ensure that every room was utilized, eschewing the idea of spaces reserved only for special occasions. The couple sought to maintain a sense of playfulness while achieving visual cohesion, exploring various patterns and colors throughout the home. Although they preserved and reinstated many original Victorian features, such as cornices, sash windows, and high ceilings, they also made several bold design decisions. One significant change involved replacing an old, impractical conservatory at the rear of the house. Instead of a ground-floor kitchen extension, a side extension was built to accommodate a new entrance for practical items like bikes and strollers. A lower-ground-floor extension featuring elegant arches was also added, reflecting Charly's preference for rounded architecture and a softer aesthetic, drawing inspiration from English country homes. This design choice was complemented by other subtle elements, such as a curved garden path. Architect Lucy Brooke proposed relocating the kitchen from the new extension to the upper floor, creating a combined kitchen-dining area by knocking through existing spaces. The new extension now houses the sitting room, study, utility room, and playroom, all connected by floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This strategic reallocation of space prompted Emma Ainscough to carefully consider how to integrate the new and old sections of the house harmoniously. She aimed to differentiate the spaces while ensuring they remained visually connected, resulting in a refined color palette in the sitting room alongside vibrant touches, such as powder blue cabinetry in the playroom. The home is filled with thoughtful details that contribute to its warmth and softness. Examples include zellige tiles and antique pendant lights in the kitchen, and a checkerboard countertop in the utility room, a recurring pattern that also appears in the sitting room's rug. The design prioritized functionality but also focused on the desired emotional feel of each room, allowing for creative material choices beyond purely utilitarian finishes. Family-friendly decorative elements are evident throughout, such as a durable, patterned, and striped sofa in the kitchen area, designed to withstand daily family life. The study features subtly patterned wallpaper contrasting with a modern frameless window. In the children’s bedrooms, space under the eaves was cleverly utilized to create storage and whimsical reading nooks. Unique, custom-made Delft tiles around the bathroom entrance depict personal symbols like ice cream cones, bears, and even Queen Elizabeth II, adding a touch of patriotism. A repurposed Neptune library cabinet from their previous home was integrated into the dressing nook for storing bags and shoes. Ultimately, the renovation represents a significant step forward in the family's design journey, reflecting increased confidence and a new stage in their lives. The bold and considered approach to combining old and new elements, along with a focus on both beauty and utility, has resulted in a charming and deeply personal family home. #VictorianHouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #KitchenDesign #PlayroomDesign #CustomTiles #ModernVictorian

The article explores Queen Anne-style homes, a distinctive and ornate architectural style that emerged in the United States in the 1880s during the Gilded Age. These homes are characterized by their whimsical use of color, elaborate stucco work, and often unconventional floor plans, reflecting the period's economic prosperity and lavish tastes. The beauty of Queen Anne architecture lies in its individuality, with variations seen across different properties and regions. The article highlights five iconic examples of Queen Anne-style homes across the United States. The first example is a red brick townhouse in Kentucky, built in 1889. This property exemplifies classic Queen Anne features, including tall bay windows, unique stained glass, and a fanciful turret. The owner, Zane Platt-Faulkner, emphasizes the ornate grandeur of the late 19th-century residential design, noting the mix of red brick and wood materials, and the personalized stained glass depicting the home's original female inhabitants. The second featured property is the Harper House in Hickory, North Carolina, constructed in 1887. This mansion is notable for its unique layout and exterior, featuring a wraparound porch, a distinctive element of the Queen Anne style, along with a top-floor balcony and an upstairs extension. The house also boasts stained glass windows throughout its tower and interior. Recent renovations have focused on preserving its architectural integrity, using new wood for balustrades and columns that contrast with the gabled roof and paneled walls. The exterior is finished in subtle yellow with darker yellow trim and wood accents, enhancing its intricate design. The third example is a traditional family home in Chevy Chase Village, Maryland, built in 1905, representing a later phase of Queen Anne construction. Interior designer Nina Farmer led the redesign of its interiors, aiming to maintain the home's historical character while updating it with a contemporary color palette. The house features a classic asymmetrical façade, decorative gables, a welcoming wraparound porch that extends beyond the house's perimeter, a white picket fence, and grand classical columns, blending traditional aesthetics with modern sensibilities. The fourth illustration is a butter yellow residence in Lockhart, Texas. This home showcases the whimsical color palette often associated with Queen Anne style, combined with castle-like turrets, ornately carved stuccos, and gabled roofs. The property’s impressive height, exaggerated by its spiral turret and layered roof, and its unconventional three-tiered roof design contribute to its distinctive personality and fable-like reputation. A white-painted balustrade porch and a double curved doorway add to its visual appeal. Finally, the article describes the renowned “Painted Ladies” of San Francisco, a row of Queen Anne-style buildings in the Alamo Square neighborhood, built in the 1870s. These homes are famous for their vibrant, whimsical colors and ornate, individualistic exteriors. Repainted in the 1960s, each house in the row features distinct carved patterns, gable styles, and shaped doorways, transforming a residential street into a widely recognized landmark. These examples collectively demonstrate the diversity and charm inherent in Queen Anne architecture, underscoring its enduring appeal and historical significance in American design. #QueenAnneStyle #AmericanArchitecture #VictorianHomes #ArchitecturalHistory #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #HomeStyles

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate

James Mercer, the singer-songwriter for The Shins, and his wife, garden designer Marisa Kula Mercer, enlisted designer Jessica Helgerson to refresh their 130-year-old Queen Anne Victorian home in Portland, Oregon. The Mercers sought to update their home for modern living while preserving its historical integrity and original charm. Their property, a former hazelnut orchard spanning nearly an acre, features 300-year-old Douglas fir trees and gardens designed by Marisa, who draws inspiration from English gardens like Great Dixter House & Gardens. The remodel, which spanned 12 years, focused on incremental changes rather than a complete overhaul. The initial challenge involved redesigning the kitchen. Helgerson's team enlarged the space by absorbing a former screened porch, ensuring it remained proportionally aligned with Victorian-era kitchens. The design incorporated antique light fixtures, cream-colored wall tiles, and a Lacanche range set within a niche, evoking the feel of an old hearth. The kitchen island was designed on legs, resembling a case piece, to maintain appropriate scale. One significant alteration was dividing the voluminous primary suite to create a dedicated dressing room. This new space features a Calacatta Viola marble-topped vanity and recessed paneling with decorative elements, aligning with the Victorian emphasis on ornamentation. The family also sought to improve the home's connection to the outdoors, a feature largely absent in the original layout. Helgerson designed a karaoke room, addressing its previously erratic ceiling structure. She employed an architectural solution by painting a green crown molding in a clean, rectangular shape to define the space and manage the 'wandering' ceiling. A custom built-in sofa with a deep cushion and a tiled window sill serving as a conservatory for houseplants were incorporated into this room, providing both comfort and functionality. James Mercer also contributed personal DIY touches to the home. He used rope to level floorboards in the former horse stable, now a music studio, and constructed Marisa's garden shed based on a vintage Sears catalog image. A distinctive, quirky detail includes plastic spiders hot-glued to ceiling medallions and painted over, creating the illusion of being permanently trapped. The overall design philosophy aimed to blend modern functionality with the inherent character of the historic Queen Anne style, maintaining the home's original nicks and scratches as part of its charm. #HomeRenovation #VictorianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #QueenAnneStyle #HistoricPreservation #GardenDesign #KitchenRemodel #PortlandHomes #CelebrityHomes

This article provides a detailed tour of a Victorian semi-detached house located in south-east London, showcasing various decorating ideas and design choices implemented throughout its update. The property features a hallway, living room, open-plan kitchen-diner, cloakroom, four bedrooms, a bathroom, and a shower room. The exterior of the house maintains its traditional brick wall and black slate roof. Inside, the living room is designed with a serene ambiance, characterized by a large monochrome rug and vibrant pink accents that add a pop of color against white walls. The furniture selection blends mid-century modern pieces with vintage items, creating a utilitarian feel. Key items in the living room include a rug from Ikea and a floor lamp from Sainsbury's. The living space was expanded by combining two smaller living rooms into one open-plan area, with furniture strategically arranged to define natural zones. Lighting is provided by a lamp from Lights 4 Living, and several pieces of furniture, including a lamp, chairs, and a table, were upcycled by Imperfect Interiors. The kitchen features painted cabinetry, marble counters, and pale-colored metro tiles, contributing to a clean and simple aesthetic. The kitchen units were sanded down and repainted, and customized tongue-and-groove end panels were added. A practical built-in banquette with seat pads and floral fabric is also present. The tiles used in the kitchen are from Fired Earth. Adjoining the kitchen is the dining area, where built-in banquette seating maximizes space efficiency. A rectangular dining table is chosen to accommodate multiple people without encroaching too much on the floor area. The dining space is adorned with pretty bench and scatter cushions, along with a patchwork rug, which introduce patterns in subtle shades. The dining chair is from The Conran Shop, and a box wall light is from Heal's. Moving to the bedrooms, the guest bedroom offers a relaxed, modern-country atmosphere. It features a floral bedspread, a vintage sofa, and an eclectic assortment of accessories. Neutral walls allow unique, design-led pieces and curios to stand out. An Ikea rug is also found in this room. The main bedroom employs a subtle palette of pale greys and off-whites to foster a peaceful environment. A feature fireplace with a stylish overmantel mirror serves as a focal point. The bed is sourced from Sofa.com, and a floor lamp is from Habitat. Finally, the bathroom is designed with tongue-and-groove panelling and geometric tiling, which complement the traditional fittings. Glazed cabinets are incorporated to add a decorative element. The tiles are from Topps Tiles, and the bath is from Victoria Plumb. The article aims to inspire readers with practical and aesthetic home decoration and design choices demonstrated in this updated London home. #PeriodHouse #LondonHome #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign

This blog post offers a virtual tour of a unique five-bedroom Victorian home located in Canonbury, London, distinguished by its quirky octagonal tower. The property, currently on the market for £5.5 million through Savills, combines a detached house built around 1855 with a two-storey 16th-century tower, originally a garden room for Canonbury House. The interior showcases original period features meticulously restored by the current owners. The exterior of the property reveals a harmonious blend of the Victorian structure and the historical octagonal tower, creating an intriguing architectural presence. Upon entering, the galley kitchen, while compact for the house's overall size, is presented as a stylish and functional space. It features an all-white design accented by a vibrant blue paint application on shelves, offering a splash of color without overwhelming the clean aesthetic. The living room is highlighted for its preserved period details, including an elegant marble fireplace and intricate ceiling cornices, which underscore the home's historical charm. The dining room, uniquely situated within the octagonal tower, provides a distinctive dining experience. Its neutral decor allows the architectural uniqueness of the tower to be the focal point. The bedroom presented in the tour features a calming pink color scheme and innovative use of a 'zoning wall' for storage. This design choice helps define distinct areas within the large bedroom, separating sleeping quarters from other living spaces. The property also includes a garden room, a conservatory located off the kitchen at the rear of the house. This space is designed for relaxation, offering views of nature and a tranquil environment. Completing the tour is a glimpse of the garden, which complements the grandeur of the home. The current sale of the property is being managed by the daughter of its late owner, Evan Hercules, a renowned television and film production designer and art director known for his work on productions like 'Midnight Express'. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider the advantages and challenges of owning a home with such unusual architectural dimensions, particularly concerning furniture placement. #VictorianHome #LondonProperty #OctagonalTower #PeriodFeatures #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #Canonbury #ArchitecturalUniqueness

This article details the restoration of a historic Victorian-era homestead located in the Western District of Victoria, a region known for its scenic views and dairy farms. The project, led by interior designer Adelaide Bragg, focused on seamlessly blending the original character of the home with modern functionality, ensuring it serves both as a working rural property and a family hub for generations to come. The design brief emphasized practicality, warmth, and a welcoming atmosphere, steering away from anything overly delicate, given that the property is a working farm and frequently hosts family and grandchildren. The homestead's interior now features a calming palette of creams and clay reds, complemented by natural textures. Key elements include sturdy oak floorboards, antique furniture, and a significant art collection from the client. A primary challenge during the renovation was the house's dated configuration, which was not suitable for a modern family, and the lack of sufficient natural light. The renovation addressed these issues by undertaking extensive structural changes. The original back of the house was transformed into a light-filled, spacious front entrance, adorned with botanical fern prints and wool baskets. A large kitchen and family room extension was added, complete with a fireplace and an Aga stove, alongside a generous verandah to facilitate outdoor dining. Designing for a rural home involved specific considerations to honor its historical integrity while making it adaptable for contemporary living. The renovations maintain high ceilings, large-scale rooms, and simple joinery, ensuring a sympathetic approach to the existing structure. The completed home is characterized by an effortless elegance and timelessness, with design elements chosen to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. The dining area, for instance, features a large table and 16 chairs, which serve as a room divider and add textural depth. Kravet fabric on the chairs, referencing horse saddle blankets, and large-scale rooster paintings introduce playful touches. Old olive baskets repurposed as kitchen pendants create a unique focal point, while Monoleath benchtops offer a practical yet concrete-like finish. Oak floorboards, sisal rugs, and cow skins contribute to layering and a casual, inviting ambiance. The homestead's design also integrates with its rural surroundings, offering magnificent views of rolling hills, red gum trees, and the Grampians. The selection of fittings and finishes was guided by the need to be sympathetic to the home's heritage. For example, Sandberg ‘Waldemar’ wallpaper from Ascraft in the powder room was chosen to reflect the oak trees in the garden, and a guest bedroom features a cane bench covered in Lisa Fine ‘Jaisalmer’ fabric from Ascraft. The owners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, confirming that the entire house is now utilized as intended, embodying a successful blend of old-world charm and modern family living. #HomesteadRestoration #InteriorDesign #RuralLiving #VictorianArchitecture #FamilyHome #AdelaideBragg #HomeRenovation #VictorianHomestead

Mike and Laura Brosius, drawn to Astoria, Oregon, and a specific 1892 Queen Anne/Stick Style house, embarked on a significant restoration project. The house, untouched by prior remodels, boasted original stained-glass windows, Eastlake-style hardware, and faux-grained woodwork, retaining its original room layouts. However, after purchasing it in 2016 at a reduced price, they discovered the extent of neglect that necessitated a comprehensive restoration to revive its 19th-century elegance. The exterior of the house suffered from decades of neglect, with white paint obscuring decorative trim. The attic was infested with pigeons and roof leaks, leading to significant water damage. All 38 sash windows required restoration due to broken pulleys, paint-sealed frames, and shattered glass. Inside, plaster throughout the house was cracked, and the dining room's embossed Anaglypta wallcovering was damaged. The faded and water-damaged faux-grained wainscot in the front hall also needed attention. Both bathrooms were in disrepair; the upstairs featured a cheap fiberglass shower, while the downstairs suffered from severe water damage and lacked heating. The main rooms had inappropriate shiny brass lighting and wall-to-wall beige carpeting, replacing original features. A poorly executed 1960s kitchen remodel had removed original trim, installed an aluminum slider window, a dropped ceiling, and a dividing peninsula. The kitchen's deck, offering views of the Columbia River, was rotting beneath three 1970s plastic bubble skylights. The restoration process addressed numerous structural and aesthetic issues. The two-brick-wythe foundation, compromised by water infiltration, required hundreds of feet of new drain lines. A new concrete foundation was poured, necessitating an 18-inch excavation to create sufficient ceiling height for a new mudroom and bath, extending the projected 90-day project to nine months. Seismic upgrades were performed, the crumbling chimney was rebuilt, and a new cedar-shake roof was installed to match the original. A new HVAC system was integrated, and all 38 windows were meticulously removed, restored, and rehung. Interior renovations focused on historical accuracy and artisanal craftsmanship. The original, embossed Anaglypta wall covering in the dining room was repaired and refinished. Floors, previously bleached, were stained to a rich brown to complement the restored woodwork. Gilded picture-rail molding, discovered in the attic, was repaired and reinstalled. An archival photograph of the original owners guided the replication of missing battlement moldings, window trim, and rosettes. The Brosiuses opted for a “Painted Gentleman” aesthetic for the exterior, utilizing a subdued polychrome palette of Benjamin Moore’s Knoxville Gray for the body, low-luster black for sashes, and Montgomery White for trim, with Brass Monkey metallic accents, departing from the brighter “Painted Lady” style. Talented local artisans contributed significantly; Christy Mather repaired the Anaglypta, while Joanne Lumpkin Brown and Faith Brown restored and faux-grained 29 doors, six pocket doors, and 31 windows, as well as re-creating trompe l’oeil wood-panel wainscoting. Faith also stenciled gold medallion patterns in the dining room and parlor. The kitchen was completely gutted and rebuilt to an 1890s aesthetic, featuring a stenciled floor mimicking Victorian linoleum, subway tiles, period lighting, and a restored vintage Magic Chef stove. A former pantry was reinstated to its original use. Swedish wallpaper from Boråstapeter was chosen for the parlor, honoring Gustav Holmes, the original owner. The house was furnished with period antique furniture and lighting, complemented by personal travel mementos, completing a comprehensive and historically sensitive restoration. #HomeRestoration #QueenAnneArchitecture #VictorianHome #HistoricalPreservation #InteriorDesign #ExteriorPainting #ArchitecturalDetails #Craftsmanship #CoastalHome

Tom Cox, co-founder of HÁM Interiors, offers a tour of his London home, showcasing the design principles that define his family-run studio. HÁM Interiors, established in 2011 by Nick, Pamela, and Tom Cox, is recognized for its blend of timeless and contemporary design, focusing on creating comfortable and high-quality spaces for busy family lives. This article provides insights into Cox's personal design choices and the renovation process of his Victorian mansion block apartment. The property, a Victorian mansion block, was chosen for its location between two parks and its strong architecture, offering great views and abundant natural light. Despite being run down, it possessed salvageable features. The renovation involved a complete makeover, with a key modification being the introduction of a large, glazed partition between the kitchen and living room to open up the space. The apartment now includes two bathrooms and two bedrooms, with one bedroom repurposed as a dressing room, maximizing functionality within the existing structure. Cox's design approach emphasizes a bold color palette, leveraging the apartment's ample natural light. The living room features Farrow & Ball's 'Pigeon,' while the bedroom adopts a lighter but similarly toned 'Hardwick White.' The kitchen uses Dulux's 'Brilliant White' for walls, complemented by darker greens like Farrow & Ball's 'Card Room Green' for cabinetry, and an antique dresser to unify the aesthetic. This strategic use of color creates a distinct atmosphere in each area while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the apartment. The kitchen, a central element of HÁM Interiors' business, was personally designed and installed by Cox's in-house team. A notable feature is the antique drapers table serving as an island, customized with antique castors for added height and a custom unlacquered brass sheet inlay for practicality and an edgy look. Lighting above the island was sourced from an antiques fair, and the tiles have a simple matte glazed finish. Cox expresses a preference for Liebherr fridges for their utilitarian design, Lacanche cookers for their colors and metal finishes, and Waterworks for kitchen taps, specifically the RW Atlas range. For china, Miranda Berrow mugs and Laguiole cutlery are highlighted. Artwork plays a significant role in Cox's home. He is an avid collector, sourcing pieces during his travels and through his design work, often frequenting antique shops and flea markets. HÁM Interiors also launched an online store for curated artwork. Sidney Teodoruk's early work is a personal favorite. Cox emphasizes the importance of framing, using a mix of antique and contemporary styles to create an eclectic feel. Picture lights and ceiling-mounted directional spotlights are strategically used to illuminate and enhance the details and colors of the paintings. The living room's design incorporates reclaimed glazed panels from a shop front, adapted and hand-painted in a distressed finish to preserve their character and create a sense of expanded space. The ceiling light is from Circa Lighting, available through HÁM Interiors' online store. The dining table combines a custom-made, painted base with an old farmhouse top. Furnishings include an antique armoire, serving as a bookcase and whisky cabinet, and an antique chest of drawers from Brownrigg. Fabric choices for the sofa are William Yeoward, while the window seat uses Christopher Farr fabric, and Fermoie cushions add varied textures and patterns. The bedroom and en suite bathroom are designed as a cool, calm, and connected space. High ceilings allowed for a three-quarter height wall between the two areas, incorporating an open archway instead of a door. This design choice maximizes light and space in the small bathroom and allows views of the reclaimed vanity and antique mirror from the bedroom. Tongue and groove detailing adds subtle texture in the bathroom, with a striking contrast between the shower tiles and the marble sink with reclaimed vanity. The bed from Soho Home features ticking fabric, reflecting a core element of HÁM Interiors' aesthetic. Lighting includes two globe lanterns from JAMB. Artworks in the bedroom include a large painting by British artist Maurice Cockerill, a trumpet piece by David Shrigley, and a reclaimed sign from Somerset. In the dressing room, joinery extends to the ceiling with integrated skirting details, painted in the same color as the walls, windows, and ceiling to create a unified and spacious feel. This room also serves as a display area for Cox's growing art collection, reflecting the studio's philosophy of incorporating art seamlessly into interior design. The article concludes by inviting readers to explore Studio HÁM's online shop and HÁM Interiors' studio for further design inspiration and services. #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #VictorianArchitecture #ColorPalette #KitchenDesign #ArtCollection #LivingRoom #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #HÁMInteriors

The article details the home renovation journey of Temi Johnson, a participant in BBC1's Interior Design Masters, who transformed her two-bedroom Victorian end-of-terrace house in Hertfordshire into a vibrant and personal space, ultimately leading her to pursue a full-time career in interior design. Temi and her husband initially fell in love with the house's location, which offered good links to London while feeling like it was in the countryside. They had previously lived on a narrowboat to save for a mortgage, and ironically, their new home was right next to a boatyard they frequented for repairs. Upon purchasing the house, Temi quickly realized it needed significant work beyond a cosmetic makeover, including extensive modernization and redecoration, especially the bathroom which had exposed old soil pipes. Despite these challenges, the house retained its original parquet flooring and had a small kitchen extension, providing a good foundation. The renovation began with ripping out the downstairs kitchen and old shower room, transforming it into a larger kitchen, laundry room, and downstairs toilet. This phase, initially planned for six weeks, stretched to nearly three months due to unexpected building issues, forcing them to wash dishes in the bathtub. Temi's vision for the kitchen was a decent-sized space for entertaining, reflecting her love for food. She describes the kitchen as the heart of the house, where they spend most of their time with friends and family. The design incorporated cabinetry with hidden storage and open shelving, cubbyholes for plates, and a built-in wine rack. For the worktops, she opted for durable quartz over more expensive and delicate marble, considering they have a three-year-old. The kitchen also features a country-style Butler sink and brass taps and handles, with the island housing the oven and hob. The living room was designed to feel larger and more inviting, using a bright orange eco-friendly lime-wash paint from Francesca’s Paints, as Temi expresses a dislike for wallpaper. The room is furnished with a mix of vintage finds, including an Ercol sofa and a brass coffee table from eBay, complemented by cherished artworks. Temi highlights her love for antiques and vintage items, emphasizing their character and charm, and describes her style as a blend of traditional and modern vintage with a strong emphasis on color. She mentions painting the fireplace black, a detail inspired by a previous boat renovation, and notes the polarizing reactions to her orange living room. Moving to the private spaces, the main bedroom features a birch bed from Ikea and a color scheme with Dulux’s Bright Skies on the walls and a Farrow & Ball Arsenic-matched paint for the door. A fitted wardrobe with curved door inserts and large circular brass handles, sourced from Pushka Home, was custom-built to fit an alcove. Her son's bedroom is designed for play and storage, featuring a raised Ikea bed to accommodate toys and a teepee that serves as a snug area. The bathroom, a surprising challenge during the renovation due to unseen damage and previous modifications for disability, was updated with a second-hand bath and sink from eBay, with all plumbing replaced. Temi concludes by advising against rushing home decoration, encouraging homeowners to take their time to find items they truly love, emphasizing that a home will come together authentically with patience. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #VictorianHouse #Hertfordshire #ColorfulDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #DIYHome

Domino’s design director, Brit Ashcraft, and her husband, Sean, transformed their 1887 Victorian home in Hudson, New York, from a weekend retreat to a permanent residence, infusing it with an edgy, modern aesthetic while preserving its inherent character. Initially drawn to the home’s unique charm, despite its lack of modern conveniences, Brit was captivated by its “witch’s house” appeal, characterized by non-straight walls and stained-glass windows. When they decided to relocate permanently from Manhattan, they opted for thoughtful cosmetic updates rather than a full-scale renovation, embracing a philosophy of “splurge vs. save.” One of the initial projects involved a complete overhaul of the single bathroom. They replaced laminate flooring with black hex tiles, painted the wainscoting black, and installed a wall-mounted toilet to maximize space. A significant splurge was the metallic swan wallpaper by Nina Campbell, which added a touch of luxury to the small room. The kitchen underwent a two-phase renovation. Initially, they painted the walls and cabinets to brighten the space, removed decorative trim for a modern look, replaced granite countertops with stained and sealed butcher block, and updated hardware and lighting. The second phase involved a more daring color choice: drenching the entire kitchen in Farrow & Ball’s Dibber, a Martini olive green, after extensive testing. They also added a 2x2 checkerboard backsplash and upgraded hardware to unlacquered brass, aiming for a consistent, edgy aesthetic. Despite the updates, some practical limitations, like the fridge’s awkward corner placement and the lack of counter space around the sink due to windows, were accepted as part of living in an older home, mitigated by creative solutions like a movable prep table. Brit admitted to a slight regret regarding the initial decision to paint the entire house in a single white with green undertones and a gray trim that sometimes appeared purple, wishing she had chosen warmer tones. The dining room features a striking black and white scheme, anchored by a chandelier from Rejuvenation and dining chairs from Safavieh. The living room required three sofa changes before they settled on a modern Crate & Barrel sectional, chosen for its hard-wearing upholstery and low profile to deter cats. Lighting in the living room is intentionally layered, with bright sconces near the fireplace and a soft West Elm lamp, as Brit dislikes overhead lighting. Brit and Sean’s offices reflect their individual personalities and collections. Brit’s office features IKEA shelving filled with sentimental items, including gifts from friends and family, and a large DIY pinboard displaying cherished memories and inspiring imagery. Sean’s office, conversely, is a testament to his “maximalist” and “nostalgist” tendencies, packed with vintage Star Wars toys, Indiana Jones action figures, and other pop culture memorabilia, alongside art from various artists. He also proudly displays an original 1977 Italian movie poster for Star Wars. The guest bedroom, though small, was optimized for functionality by pushing the bed into a corner, creating more movement space, and incorporating blanket ladders, hooks, and baskets for storage due to the house’s small closets. The primary bedroom, which serves as a repository for overflow items like art and books, has also seen the bed rearranged multiple times to find the most functional layout. The couple frequently engages in weekend activities around Hudson, New York, such as coffee on the porch, visits to local eateries, vintage shopping, and outdoor movie nights, fully embracing their life in the quirky, re-imagined Victorian home. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #EdgyDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomRenovation #EclecticStyle #SmallSpaceSolutions #HudsonValleyLiving

Erin Hiemstra, founder of the design website Apartment 34, acquired an 1850s Victorian home in San Francisco's Bayview neighborhood after two years of searching and being outbid on other properties. The house, discovered by her husband through an unofficial 'For Sale' sign, offered a unique opportunity for a full-scale renovation despite its initial dilapidated state. The property featured charming period details such as arched windows, a clapboard exterior, vast bay windows, transoms, original glass and brass doorknobs, and crown molding, alongside significant drawbacks like crumbling ceilings, scratched floors, a makeshift staircase banister, walls painted in 'insane colors,' a mismatched kitchen, and garish 1970s fireplaces. Hiemstra, whose background includes a career in politics and experience with cosmetic design projects, embarked on this extensive renovation as a self-taught designer. She had previously launched Apartment 34 based on her experiences decorating rental lofts and a condo. For this project, she enlisted architect Seth Brookshire, branding the endeavor "This Old Victorian" on her blog. The initial phase focused on meticulously preserving and restoring the home's original features, including rebuilding ceiling medallions, maintaining moldings, ensuring pocket door functionality with original hardware, and restoring fireplaces to their Victorian-era style. Undertaking the renovation without a general contractor, Hiemstra leveraged resources like Google, Instagram, local Bayview shops, and her DIY-savvy husband to source builders and materials. She also educated herself on technical aspects such as electrical plans, wallboards, insulation, permits, and stone sizes. Despite her diligent efforts, the renovation encountered challenges, including a wood floor stain that required redoing, extending a days-long task into weeks, and a rushed decision-making process for light fixtures while six weeks postpartum. The couple successfully modernized the home for their family of three and a French bulldog puppy while retaining its historic essence. This involved reconfiguring the layout by removing walls downstairs to create an open-plan kitchen, family room, and dining room, and redesigning the second floor to include a master suite and an additional bathroom. These changes resulted in a seamless flow between rooms, a significant departure from the original 1800s American architectural style. Hiemstra's design approach blended European and West Coast influences. The interior features pale wood floors, high-gloss black window frames, and matte white walls, creating a mellow palette that allows decor elements to stand out. Modern light fixtures are juxtaposed with decorative Victorian ceiling medallions in rooms with 12-foot ceilings. The integration of a double-width windowed steel door leading to the media room, alongside classic white molding and a window above the industrial door that mimics original transoms, exemplifies the successful fusion of new and old. Inspired by her travels to Sweden and Denmark, Hiemstra emphasized intentional design and the use of negative space to highlight individual objects. The home showcases a curated mix of items, including mid-century seating and artwork from Elsie Green, an 1890s French gilded mirror from 1stdibs, and a vintage Dutch rattan-and-wool chair from Amsterdam Modern. Custom furniture, such as couches and beds, were commissioned to suit the scale of the architecture. Hiemstra's meticulous approach extends to accessorizing, where she acts as a detective to find sources for interesting items and continually adjusts vignettes to achieve a perfectly balanced, understated yet bold aesthetic. The five-year renovation underscores that creating a truly special home requires significant time and effort, debunking the myth of quick and cheap transformations often portrayed in media. #VictorianRenovation #HomeTransformation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #DIYRenovation #SanFranciscoHomes #ModernVictorian #DesignInspiration #OpenConceptLiving

This article offers a detailed tour of designer Bailey McCarthy's century-old Victorian farmhouse in Bellville, Texas, showcasing how she infused it with a fresh yet timeless country aesthetic. McCarthy, despite her urban upbringing, drew inspiration from childhood summers on her grandfather's ranch to create a comfortable and inviting retreat for her family and friends. The home features a blend of traditional country elements like buffalo checks, antique quilts, and chintz, alongside modern touches to prevent it from feeling overly thematic. The kitchen, which had been previously restored, received significant cosmetic upgrades. McCarthy painted the walls and varied-height cabinets black to create a cohesive look and replaced granite countertops with butcher-block for a practical, casual, and aging-friendly surface. A farm table functions as an island, complemented by a brass light fixture, floral curtains, and open shelves displaying antique pewter and needlepoint. In the dining room, inspired by the surrounding landscape, McCarthy incorporated rustic wood elements and green accents. An existing antler chandelier was retained, and an antique round table was stripped to raw wood for a weathered appearance. Beech wishbone chairs, lacquered in apple green, provide a lively contrast, while a large antique hutch stores copper Moscow mule mugs and green and white china. A pale pink Oriental rug with subtle blue and chartreuse hues completes the space. The living room is designed for both large gatherings and intimate family game nights. McCarthy combined robust, indestructible furniture, such as a buffalo check sofa and a chintz armchair, with modern elements like a steel-framed coffee table and a graphic longhorn watercolor painting by Mary H. Case. This blend prevents the space from becoming too themed. The primary bedroom, originally the house's parlor, is centered around McCarthy’s company’s Wimberley pattern. A white-painted bed is upholstered in blue-and-white-check fabric, coordinating with whimsical sheets. Wallpaper with a wood-grain pattern provides a warm backdrop, and gauzy eyelet curtains add a country touch. An antique patriotic quilt serves as graphic artwork, highlighting McCarthy's appreciation for craftsmanship. The guest bedroom emphasizes coziness with rich green paint on walls and trim. A four-poster spindle bed, dressed with a striped wool blanket and wood-grain patterned bedding, creates a room-within-a-room feel. Botanical curtains add softness and privacy, while vintage carved wooden lamps and sepia-toned landscape photographs contribute to a collected-over-time aesthetic. Her daughter Grace’s bedroom showcases a vibrant mix of pink and green, with soft pink walls and a bright green cannonball bed. An antique quilt is paired with graphic heart-print bedding, and vintage elements like Murano glass tulip sconces and fair banners personalize the space. The article also highlights a unique dance hall-inspired playhouse for Grace, custom-built by Lilliput Play Homes, based on Gruene Hall, Texas's oldest operating dance hall. #FarmhouseDesign #VictorianHome #CountryDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #KitchenRenovation #BedroomDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #VintageFurniture

This article details a renovation project by London-based firm LLI Design, focusing on a Victorian townhouse in North London. The project aimed to infuse modern style while restoring period-appropriate elements that had been stripped away in previous renovations. The primary focus of the redesign was a windowed kitchen extension that fully opens to the garden, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The previous state of the Victorian townhouse lacked its original character, as earlier renovations had removed many historical details. LLI Design meticulously reintroduced these elements, starting with the front fanlight window, which was adorned with stained glass. The entry hall received vintage black and white tiles, re-establishing a sense of historical authenticity right from the entrance of the home. These subtle yet significant changes contributed to restoring the townhouse's original charm and aesthetic. Inside, the living room also underwent significant transformations. Outdated cabinetry was replaced with custom-built shelving units, carefully designed to flank the fireplace, providing both functionality and a refreshed aesthetic. The old mantle was removed and replaced with a more traditional marble fireplace surround, further enhancing the room's classic appeal. The flooring throughout the living spaces was updated with light herringbone-patterned floors, which successfully blended historical charm with a contemporary feel, bridging the gap between the home's past and present. The kitchen, however, stands out as the centerpiece of this renovation. It was completely revamped with new pale gray cabinets that offer a sleek and modern look, complemented by crisp white countertops. The most striking feature of the kitchen is its entire rear wall, which is composed of large-paned windows framed in dark gray aluminum. These windows are designed to open completely, transforming the kitchen and dining area into an open-air space that directly connects to the garden. This innovative design allows for an abundance of natural light and ventilation, creating a bright, airy, and inviting atmosphere that blurs the lines between the interior and exterior environments. This renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance historical properties. By carefully reintroducing period details while integrating contemporary design elements, LLI Design successfully transformed the Victorian townhouse into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The emphasis on opening the interior spaces to the garden not only enhances the living experience but also creates a unique connection to the outdoors, making the home more adaptable to modern lifestyles while preserving its inherent character. #VictorianTownhouse #HomeRenovation #LondonArchitecture #InteriorDesign #KitchenExtension #GardenConnection #LLIDesign #ModernStyle #PeriodDetails

This article details a renovation project by Studio Ben Allen, focusing on a Victorian terraced house in York, England. The project involves extending the brick home by adding two barrel vaults, also constructed from brick, to the rear garden. This extension seamlessly integrates with the existing architecture while introducing modern elements. The newly created double-arched space houses the kitchen and a small dining area. To maintain a connection with the outdoors and preserve greenery, the extension incorporates a courtyard enclosed by glass doors and sliders on three sides. This design choice allows natural light to permeate the interior and offers a visual link to the garden. A recurring motif of arches is present throughout the home, extending beyond the external barrel vaults. Inside, arched cubbies are featured underneath the concrete sink, providing stylish storage solutions in the kitchen. In the main floor bathroom, tall mirrors with curved tops are installed above a double vanity, echoing the arch theme. Despite the consistent use of arches, the design avoids monotony, instead imparting a classic charm to the home. The interior design employs a mix of materials to create a fresh yet warm aesthetic. Raw concrete is used for the kitchen counter, complemented by polished concrete floors. The original brick walls are maintained, adding texture and historical character, while oak cupboards and shelving introduce warmth and a touch of natural elegance. This combination of materials and architectural details ensures the home feels contemporary without losing its inherent classic appeal. The renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance the character of historic buildings. Studio Ben Allen's approach demonstrates a thoughtful balance between old and new, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. The emphasis on natural light, material selection, and the continuation of architectural themes contributes to a cohesive and inviting environment. #VictorianArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalExtension #BrickDesign #VaultedCeilings #InteriorDesign #MaterialMixing #StudioBenAllen #EnglandArchitecture

The Victorian era, spanning from approximately 1837 to 1901, marked a period of significant technological advancements that revolutionized the concept of the kitchen. Innovations such as the stove and icebox transformed kitchen design and layout, moving away from purely utilitarian spaces. Modern homeowners looking to incorporate historical charm into their kitchens, or those renovating period homes, can draw inspiration from various Victorian kitchen features. This article explores 24 ideas to blend Victorian aesthetics with modern functionality, offering inspiration for both historic and contemporary spaces. One of the defining characteristics of a Victorian kitchen was its emphasis on freestanding cabinetry and furniture, in contrast to today's built-in designs. While a completely freestanding kitchen might not be practical for modern life, elements like a vintage-inspired sink unit can add a period feel. Victorian kitchens often featured elaborate molding and oversized range cookers, reflecting a grand and elegant design philosophy. Unlike modern kitchens that typically center around the perimeter, Victorian layouts often focused on the middle of the room, with the primary workspace centrally located. These kitchens were also frequently larger, accommodating dining tables for entertaining guests. Key Victorian elements that can be incorporated into contemporary designs include antique range cookers, which provide a rustic and historical touch, and butler's pantries, offering a dedicated space for food preparation away from the main kitchen. The advent of indoor plumbing in the Victorian era introduced porcelain sinks with brass or iron faucets, which can still inspire modern fixtures. Open kitchen shelving was also common due to fewer items needing storage, a look that can be replicated in modern kitchens to create a light and airy feel. Other decorative touches like period wallpaper, featuring motifs such as Victorian cakes, can further enhance the historical ambiance. For those renovating Victorian farmhouse kitchens, integrating rustic beams can create a sense of timelessness. Repurposing antique furniture, such as dressers topped with custom stone countertops, provides an authentic Victorian touch. Incorporating antique and vintage accessories, alongside exposed brick and colorful tiles, can give a period home a timeless appeal. Instead of solid walls of built-in cabinets, freestanding china cabinets offer a more traditional storage solution. Some Victorian homes had small, hidden kitchens for staff, but modern renovations often relocate and expand these spaces, incorporating contemporary finishes like marble and modern painted cabinets. Window treatments, such as lace-trimmed panels, can soften light and enhance the period feel above kitchen sinks. Tiling backsplashes with traditional patterns, like the Celtic cross, can add historical depth to a renovated space. Curtain-fronted base cabinets, combined with central work tables and large wooden dishracks, evoke the informal charm of Victorian kitchens. Even in Victorian flats, a mix of midcentury modern and global furniture can complement the classic architecture. Cozy Victorian villa kitchens often feature a blend of freestanding pieces, modern and antique furniture, and checkerboard flooring for a casually elegant feel. Rustic wood touches, exposed ceilings, and open shelving can integrate old and new, while emerald green backsplash tiles can add a modern flair rooted in Victorian popular colors. Finally, renovating with a black-and-white palette, using subway tile with contrasting grout and penny tile mosaics, offers a classic and timeless Victorian aesthetic. #VictorianKitchen #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #AntiqueDecor #FreestandingFurniture #PeriodHome #KitchenRemodel