- Size and Layout – Edwardian houses are generally more expansive and squat compared to the smaller and darker Victorian homes.
- Windows – The Edwardian era saw a boom in large windows and, therefore, allowed ample natural light into living spaces compared to the smaller, single pane windows in Victorian styles.
- Privacy – As the Edwardian era progressed, the desire for privacy grew with grander and more spacious front yards, while Victorians were typically built closer to the road.
- Materials – Edwardian homes started using different materials than the traditional brick or stone that dominated Victorian design. The use of decorative and colorful tiles became prominent in Edwardian designs.
- Color – While Victorian homes are known for their darker and more often some muted exterior shades, Edwardian homes tended to have lighter and more pastel-colored façades, with pink and soft green being incredibly popular.
Exploring the Differences Between Edwardian and Victorian Style Homes
When we think of Edwardian and Victorian style homes, we often picture towering structures with detailed carvings and intricate designs. While they are both grand and elegant in their own right, there are some distinct differences between the two. Let’s delve into the characteristics of each style and compare and contrast them.The Characteristics of Victorian Style Homes
Victorian style homes were prevalent during the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901. They were characterized by elaborate designs, ranging from Gothic to Renaissance to Queen Anne. These homes typically featured steep roofs, bay windows, ornate gables, and a plethora of decorative details. It’s usually easy to spot a Victorian house from a distance, as they stand tall and grandiose. Inside, Victorian homes featured large rooms with high ceilings and ornate plasterwork. The emphasis was on creating a sense of opulence and grandeur. Dark, heavy furniture and rich fabrics were the norm, and the color palette leaned towards darker hues such as burgundy, navy, and forest green. Victorian homes also often featured multiple fireplaces, both for practicality and as a status symbol.The Characteristics of Edwardian Style Homes
The Edwardian era spanned from 1901 to 1910, and the style of homes built during this time marked a shift from the Victorian era. Edwardian homes were designed to be less ornate and more practical. They were still grand in scale, but the focus was on creating a more livable space. Unlike in Victorian homes, there was less emphasis on creating a sense of awe and more on functionality. Inside, Edwardian homes boasted spacious rooms with large windows and high ceilings. They also had wider hallways and fewer interior walls, making them feel more open and airy. The color palette was lighter and brighter, with pastel colors such as sky blue and pale pink being popular choices. The furniture was also more streamlined and less ornate than that of the Victorian era.Similarities Between Edwardian and Victorian Styles
Despite their differences, there are some similarities between Edwardian and Victorian styles. Both styles prioritize grandeur and elegance, with a focus on creating a sense of luxury. They also both use a range of architectural styles, from Gothic to classical to Art Nouveau. Another similarity is in the use of decorative details. While Edwardian homes have fewer decorative elements than Victorian homes overall, they still feature ornate moldings, carved woodwork, and intricate tile patterns. Additionally, both styles make use of large windows, allowing for plenty of natural light to flood the rooms.Differences in Size and Layout
One of the biggest differences between the two styles is the size and layout of the homes. Victorian homes tend to be taller and more narrow than Edwardian homes. This is due to the fact that many Victorian homes were built on smaller city lots. Edwardian homes, on the other hand, were built during a time when there was more space available, so they tend to be wider and more squat in shape. The layout of the homes also differs. Victorian homes often had smaller rooms with multiple doors, giving them a maze-like feel. Edwardian homes, meanwhile, were designed with open spaces in mind. They had wider hallways and fewer interior walls, making them feel more spacious.Landscaping and Outdoor Space in Edwardian Homes
In the Victorian era, houses were built near the street, sometimes even with just a front stoop and no yard. In contrast, Edwardian homes often featured a large front yard, giving homeowners more privacy and separation from the street. This allowed for more space to create gardens and landscaped areas. Additionally, because there was more space available during the Edwardian era, homes often featured a back garden as well. These gardens were carefully landscaped with hedges, flower beds, and even fountains, making them a luxurious outdoor retreat.Popular Design Elements in Edwardian and Victorian Architecture
Despite their differences, both Edwardian and Victorian architecture share some popular design elements. These include:- Ornate moldings: Both styles use decorative plaster moldings to add a touch of elegance to the rooms.
- Large windows: Both styles prioritize natural light and feature large windows throughout the home.
- Carved woodwork: Elaborate wood carvings can be found on staircases, mantels, and even doors in both styles.
- Tiled floors: Both Victorian and Edwardian homes often featured tiled floors, especially in entryways and bathrooms.
- Fireplaces: Both styles made use of fireplaces, although they were often more ornate in Victorian homes.
