Historic homes usually have some distinctive architectural details that make them stand out. They might remind you of a dollhouse you played with growing up or, depending on your perspective, a creepy haunted house.
But what exactly is a Victorian style house? Whether you’re in the real estate market for a historic home or have always been curious about some of the houses in your neighborhood, here’s what you need to know about Victorian homes and how to quickly spot their common characteristics.
What is a Victorian style house?
The Victorian era refers to a very specific period in history when Queen Victoria sat on the throne of the United Kingdom. She reigned from 1837 to 1901, but architectural features associated with her name only became popular later in her reign, beginning in the 1850s.
Victorian architecture is actually an umbrella term for several different styles that emerged during this period, including Early Gothic Revival, Italianate, Colonial Revival, and Queen Anne, to name a few.
Victorian style architecture is a reflection of what was happening in the world at that time. Thanks to the Industrial Revolution, it was cheaper and easier than ever before to produce and transport building materials. This productive period also made many people wealthy – and they wanted their homes to reflect that status.
“The house was not just shelter or functionality; it was about showing style and opulence,” says Kris VanBuskirk, a real estate agent based in Boulder, Colorado, who has many Victorian-style homes lining tree-lined streets. Some of the most common design and architectural features of a Victorian-style home are porches, ornate trim, turrets, bright colors, high roofs and decorative trim, VanBuskirk says.
You might also see stained glass, ceiling medallions, detailed doors and hinges, dark wood, subway tile, mosaic floors, moldings and wainscoting, says Monica Breese, a New York real estate broker and founder of The Designed Domicilio, a design firm. and home staging. “The mood and aesthetic is detailed and more is more,” she says. “It almost feels like the home is overwrought—very ornate.”
In the US, you’ll find Victorian-style homes in cities that were built before or during the 19th century. One of the most famous examples? The “Painted Ladies” row on Steiner Street in San Francisco, which you may recognize from the opening credits of the show Full House.
You’ll also find a lot of Victorians in Brooklyn’s Ditmas Park neighborhood, says Gerard Splendore, a New York real estate agent. “This neighborhood is so historically accurate that period movies are shot there,” he says.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Victorian Style Homes
Like any type of house, Victorians have their pros and cons. If you’re considering buying or renting one, you’ll want to take some time to carefully consider the pros and cons.
First, the positives. If you buy a Victorian model, you’re buying — and, ideally, saving — a piece of history. “Buying a house that’s more than 100 years old means it’s had several owners and time periods, and it can have a very good history,” VanBuskirk says. “Some of the most beautiful homes in Boulder are Victorians built or designed by some of the most prominent people in the city’s history.”
Victorians also have a lot of charm and character, so if you’re looking for a home that packs a lot of personality, this style can be a good fit, VanBuskirk says.
“These homes are built to stand out and, while they have a similar overall style, each home is unique in its design, color choices, millwork and more,” she adds. “If you’re looking for a home that doesn’t feel like a cakewalk, a Victorian-style home will really excite you.”
These houses also tend to be large, so if you have a growing family or just need more space, you might want to consider a Victorian, says Splendor. They are usually at least two stories high — often three — and usually have spacious features such as a grand entrance hall that opens into a lounge. These and other features give them “a sense of gracious living and grandeur,” he adds.
But Victorians also have some potential drawbacks. That historic charm? It also means that the house is just… old. You may need to make expensive repairs, such as replacing the electrical system and plumbing, VanBuskirk says. Plus, you may have to navigate strict city rules around renovating historic buildings — not necessarily a deal breaker, but an added layer of complexity if you decide to make changes, she adds. “Your projects may need to be approved before you start working on them,” she says.
Because they are multi-story structures, they are not ideal for people with mobility issues. And, often, the stairs can be quite narrow. Depending on your wishes, the schedule can also be a diversion. Victorian kitchens are usually closed off from the dining room and living room, so if you like an open floor plan, you may need to remodel a bit.
“These things can always be changed with a renovation, but again, they can get expensive quickly, based on the materials and what you can find behind the walls,” says VanBuskirk.