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Writer's pictureIrénée Sara Lykke

Victorian revivalism in American homes and offices.


Victorian revivalism is a design style that emerged in the late 19th century and became popular again in the late 20th century. It is characterized by an emphasis on ornate decoration, eclectic mix of styles, and attention to detail. In this article, we will explore the Victorian revivalism movement in American homes and offices.


The Victorian era, which lasted from 1837 to 1901, was a time of great change in the United States. During this period, many new technologies and innovations were introduced, which greatly impacted the design of homes and offices. The Victorian revivalism movement, which began in the late 1800s and continued into the early 1900s, was a response to the growing interest in the past.


One of the key features of Victorian revivalism in American interiors was the use of rich, dark colors, ornate patterns, and lavish decorations. This style often included decorative elements such as carved woodwork, stained glass windows, and intricate plasterwork. In addition, Victorian revivalism was characterized by an eclectic mix of styles, as designers borrowed from various historical periods to create a unique look.


Victorian revivalism also had a significant impact on furniture design in the United States. Many of the furniture pieces from this era were ornately carved and featured richly patterned upholstery. Common furniture pieces included sofas, armchairs, and tables, often made from rich woods such as mahogany and walnut.


In American homes, Victorian revivalism was often used to create a sense of opulence and grandeur. This style was popular among the wealthy, who sought to display their wealth and status through their home decor. Victorian revivalism was also used in public buildings such as government offices and libraries, where it was used to create a sense of tradition and permanence.


One of the most significant examples of Victorian revivalism in American architecture is the Victorian mansion. These large homes, often built for wealthy families, were characterized by their ornate facades, sprawling floor plans, and richly decorated interiors. Some of the most famous Victorian mansions in the United States include the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina and the Hearst Castle in California.


Despite its popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Victorian revivalism fell out of favor in the mid-20th century. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in this design style, particularly among homeowners who appreciate the ornate details and opulence of Victorian design.


In conclusion, Victorian revivalism had a significant impact on American homes and offices in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This design style was characterized by an emphasis on ornate decoration, an eclectic mix of styles, and attention to detail. Although it fell out of favor for a time, Victorian revivalism has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, as homeowners seek to recreate the opulent look and feel of this iconic design style.

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