Victorian architecture is a feast for the eyes with its intricate details and bold colors.
These homes reflect a rich history and craftsmanship that’s truly captivating.
From the elegant facades to the historical features that adorn each structure, you’ll find pure artistry in every corner.
Let’s stroll through 21 of the most enchanting exterior Victorian style homes that embody the charm of yesteryear, each telling its own unique story.
Contents
- 1. The Classic Gothic Revival
- 2. The Charming Queen Anne
- 3. The Elegant Italianate
- 4. The Intricate Second Empire
- 5. The Regal Colonial Revival
- 6. The Whimsical Stick Style
- 7. The Classic Richardsonian Romanesque
- 8. The Exquisite Eastlake Style
- 9. The Breathtaking Romanesque Revival
- 10. The Alluring Arts and Crafts
- 11. The Classic Bungalow
- 12. The Resplendent Neoclassical
- 13. The Vibrant Shingle Style
- 14. The Enchanting Prairie Style
- 15. The Captivating Tudor Revival
- 16. The Alluring Aesthetic Movement
- 17. The Stunning Mission Style
- 18. The Elegant Federal Style
- 19. The Cozy Cottage Style
- 20. The Beautiful Modern Victorian
- 21. The Majestic Craftsman
1. The Classic Gothic Revival
One of the most iconic Victorian styles is the Gothic Revival.
These homes are characterized by steeply pitched roofs, pointed arches, and elaborate gables that make them stand out in any neighborhood.
You’ll often spot intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and ornate spires that reach for the sky. To bring a touch of this elegance into your own space, consider adding stained glass window film, which can mimic the stunning accents found in these architectural masterpieces. Imagine transforming your ordinary windows into beautiful art pieces that echo the charm of Gothic Revival homes.
Imagine walking through a neighborhood filled with these beauties, each one telling a story of elegance and grandeur.
– Key Features:
– Steep gable roofs
– Decorative woodwork
– Pointed window arches
– Stained glass accents
For those interested in designing their own Victorian-style home, the book Victorian domestic architectural plans and details: 734 scale drawings of doorways, windows, staircases, moldings, cornices, and other elements is a fantastic resource. It provides a wealth of information and inspiration to help you create a home that captures the timeless beauty and grandeur of the Gothic Revival style.
These homes are not just buildings; they’re a piece of art standing the test of time.
2. The Charming Queen Anne
The Queen Anne style is all about embracing variety and detail. These homes often mix different materials and textures, creating a playful yet sophisticated look. From turrets to wraparound porches, every element is designed to catch the eye. Their vibrant colors and unique patterns make Queen Anne homes truly memorable.
To help you capture the essence of this charming style in your own space, consider adding some delightful decor. An excellent choice is the S-MANTIS vintage wall sculpture, featuring an antique bird with exquisite wing and feather details. This piece can enhance the intricate designs typical of Queen Anne architecture, providing a beautiful focal point in your home.
Furthermore, if you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for architectural beauty, the Progressive American Architecture (Annotated) book is a must-have. It provides insight into various architectural styles, including Queen Anne, helping you understand and admire the detail and craftsmanship in these stunning homes.
With these additions, whether you’re sipping tea on the porch or admiring the intricate designs, you’ll further fall in love with the charm of Queen Anne homes.
– Must-Have Features:
– Asymmetrical facades
– Turrets and towers
– Decorative brackets
– Varied rooflines
3. The Elegant Italianate
With low-pitched roofs and tall windows, Italianate Victorian homes exude elegance. They often feature wide eaves with decorative brackets and large, square cupolas that add to their stately appearance. These homes reflect a sense of grandeur that’s perfect for making a lasting impression in any neighborhood.
To appreciate the intricate designs and details of Italianate architecture, you might find the Victorian architecture book helpful, as it showcases stunning examples and provides insights into the style’s historical context.
– Core characteristics:
– Tall, narrow windows
– Elaborate cornices
– A flat or low-pitched roof
– Balconies and porticos
For those interested in creating their own designs, an architectural scale ruler can be an essential tool for accurately drafting plans and blueprints, ensuring all proportions are just right.
Italianate homes are a nod to the elegance of the Italian countryside, making them a favorite for many. If you’re looking to take your design ideas to the next level, consider using home design software to experiment with layouts that highlight the beauty of this architectural style.
4. The Intricate Second Empire
Second Empire homes are instantly recognizable by their mansard roofs and ornate details. This style reflects French influence and often features dormer windows and elaborate cornices. The intricate design elements bring a sense of history and personality to each home, making them a true architectural gem.
To appreciate the beauty of Second Empire architecture, consider exploring resources like Victorian domestic architectural plans and details: 734 scale drawings of doorways, windows, staircases, moldings, cornices, and other elements (Dover architecture). This comprehensive guide offers insights into the defining traits of these homes, helping you understand and appreciate their unique designs.
In addition, you might enjoy a DIY project with the mansard roof model kit. This creative kit is a fun way to engage with the architectural style, allowing you to understand the structure in a hands-on manner while celebrating the classic mansard roof.
To enhance your own home decor and bring a touch of Victorian elegance, consider using flexible wall trim, 10 ft self-adhesive peel & stick molding & trim for cabinet & mirror border. These decorative moldings can help you replicate the ornate features of Second Empire homes, adding character and charm to your space.
Every Second Empire house has its own story woven within the architecture, making them fascinating to explore.
5. The Regal Colonial Revival
Bringing forth the grandeur of the colonial era, Colonial Revival homes embody a classic beauty that’s timeless. These homes often have symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, and large porches that invite relaxation. To enhance the historical appeal while adding a modern touch, consider incorporating a few key elements into your home.
One way to emphasize the symmetrical design and classic columns of these homes is by adding classic column decorative pillars to your outdoor space. These pillars not only reflect the architectural style but also serve as stunning accents that elevate the overall look of your home.
Additionally, the use of multi-pane window treatments can beautifully frame the multi-pane windows typical of Colonial Revival architecture. These elegant drapes not only enhance privacy but also help maintain a cozy ambiance inside, perfectly complementing the home’s timeless aesthetic.
If you’re intrigued by the Colonial Revival style and want to dive deeper into its history and design principles, consider picking up Architectural Design Book on Colonial Revival Homes. This resource will enrich your understanding and appreciation of these classic structures.
Colonial Revival homes represent a love for history and tradition, making them ideal for anyone who appreciates classic architecture.
6. The Whimsical Stick Style
Stick style homes embrace a whimsical charm with their prominent wooden framework and decorative elements. Their playful designs often feature horizontal and vertical board patterns that mimic the construction of a skeleton, creating an eye-catching effect. To enhance the enchanting appeal of a stick-style home, consider incorporating decorative wooden trusses that can add an artistic touch to your exterior.
With intricate detailing, stick style homes embody creativity and artistry. A great way to express your personality is through color. Using a vibrant option like bold color exterior paint can truly make your home stand out, allowing you to play with hues that reflect your style.
Additionally, consider enhancing the architectural features with overhanging eaves decorative elements. These not only provide functional benefits, like rain and snow protection, but also add to the overall aesthetic of your home. Each stick-style home is unique, and these products can help showcase your individuality in design.
7. The Classic Richardsonian Romanesque
Richardsonian Romanesque homes are known for their sturdy and robust appearance, often featuring heavy stonework and rounded arches. This style reflects a blend of Romanesque architecture with Victorian embellishments, creating an impressive visual presence. The use of natural materials lends a sense of authenticity and strength.
To bring these architectural features to life, you might consider investing in some quality resources. For instance, the Victorian domestic architectural plans and details: 734 scale drawings of doorways, windows, staircases, moldings, cornices, and other elements can serve as an invaluable guide for anyone looking to understand or replicate the intricate details of this style.
Additionally, if you’re thinking about working on any masonry projects to enhance the classic look of a Richardsonian Romanesque home, the 12PC masonry hand tool set organized in tool bag is a fantastic investment. This comprehensive set includes everything from trowels to a masonry brush, making it easier to achieve those heavy stone facades and decorative masonry details that define this architectural style.
Walking past a Richardsonian Romanesque home feels like stepping back in time, and with the right tools and resources, you can appreciate or even create your own stunning version of this classic architecture.
8. The Exquisite Eastlake Style
Eastlake homes are filled with whimsy and charm, featuring intricate woodwork and decorative detailing that truly stand out. This style is a celebration of craftsmanship, often showcasing elaborate porches and intricate patterns in the wood. To recreate the Eastlake aesthetic in your own space, consider incorporating elements like 200 Victorian Fretwork Designs: Borders, Panels, Medallions and Other Patterns, which can inspire you to add the perfect decorative woodwork that embodies this style’s essence.
The vibrant colors and playful designs of Eastlake houses make them unique in the Victorian repertoire. To enhance your exterior, opt for acrylic paint in assorted colors. This bold color exterior paint allows you to bring life to your home with shades that capture the spirit of Eastlake architecture.
Additionally, the texture is a significant aspect of Eastlake homes, and you can achieve this with RoomMates taupe dimensional square plaster peel and stick wallpaper. This textured surface wallpaper can complement your interior, reflecting the attention to detail seen in the elaborate porches and surfaces of Eastlake exteriors.
With these products, every Eastlake home can become a visual delight, inviting everyone to appreciate the artistry behind its construction.
9. The Breathtaking Romanesque Revival
Romanesque Revival homes merge the robust style of Romanesque architecture with Victorian elegance. These homes are characterized by their heavy masonry, rounded arches, and intricate detailing that creates a strong presence. The combination of symmetry and decorative elements makes these homes visually stunning.
To truly appreciate the architectural nuances of these magnificent structures, consider exploring architectural design books. These resources provide invaluable insights into the elements that define Romanesque Revival architecture, helping you understand and appreciate its beauty and complexity.
Additionally, if you’re inspired to incorporate some of the decorative stonework found in these homes, you might enjoy the decorative stonework kits. These kits are perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home or create stunning art pieces that echo the intricate detailing of Romanesque Revival designs.
For those considering a new home inspired by this architectural style, utilizing home design software can be incredibly helpful. This tool allows you to visualize your dream space, integrating the thick walls, rounded arches, and tower-like structures that are hallmarks of the Romanesque Revival style.
A Romanesque Revival home stands tall, representing a blend of strength and beauty, and with the right resources, you can create or appreciate such stunning architecture in your own way.
10. The Alluring Arts and Crafts
Arts and Crafts homes focus on craftsmanship and organic design, often featuring exposed beams and natural materials. These homes celebrate simplicity and functionality, making them warm and inviting. For instance, consider incorporating exposed beam ceiling decor in your living space. This rustic wood beam chandelier not only highlights the signature architectural elements of Arts and Crafts style but also adds a cozy ambiance to your home.
With distinctive chimneys and intricate porch details, Arts and Crafts homes offer a truly inviting aesthetic. To enhance this cozy vibe, you might want to add natural material furniture, such as a solid parawood accent table. Its unfinished look allows for personalization through painting or staining, ensuring that it complements your unique home design while providing functional space.
Additionally, every Arts and Crafts home celebrates the beauty of handmade artistry. You can further embrace this ethos with decorative elements like stonework decorative accents. An ancient graffiti eight-stone balancing cairn can bring a touch of nature indoors or enhance your garden space, reinforcing the organic design that is central to this style.
Overall, these products not only enhance the aesthetic of your Arts and Crafts home but also solve functional needs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that tells your unique story.
11. The Classic Bungalow
Bungalow homes offer a down-to-earth, cozy vibe with their single-story layouts and low, sloping roofs. These homes often feature wide front porches and large windows that create an inviting atmosphere, making them perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
To enhance your bungalow’s charm, consider adding outdoor string lights to your porch. These lights not only provide a warm ambiance but also make your outdoor space more inviting for gatherings. With their vintage Edison bulbs, they perfectly complement the classic bungalow style.
Bungalows are all about comfort and practicality, making them a popular choice for families. To bring even more comfort to your porch, a bungalow style porch swing is an excellent addition. This two-person swing creates a cozy spot for relaxation and family bonding, while its all-weather design ensures it stands the test of time, whether rain or shine.
To complete your outdoor aesthetic, consider adding some cozy outdoor throw pillows. These decorative pillows not only provide comfort for your seating areas but also add a pop of color and style to your porch. Their water-repellent fabric makes them ideal for outdoor use, ensuring they stay looking fresh and inviting.
Together, these elements blend functionality with style, making bungalows an enduring favorite in Victorian architecture.
12. The Resplendent Neoclassical
Neoclassical Victorian homes are a nod to classical design, featuring grand columns and symmetrical facades. These homes often embody elegance with their ornate details and balanced proportions. The combination of traditional elements and Victorian flair creates a luxurious appearance.
To enhance your own Neoclassical-inspired space, consider incorporating an architectural column. This 32” tall EMSCO Group Greek column statue, with its natural granite appearance and lightweight resin construction, offers a stunning focal point that echoes the grandeur of classic architecture.
Additionally, to capture the essence of decorative features, a Victorian style decorative frieze can add a charming touch to your decor. This poster print by Frances MacDonald MacNair (8 x 24) brings intricate design into your space, complementing the ornate details typical of Neoclassical homes.
Finally, don’t overlook the importance of windows in achieving that classic look. Consider the multi-pane window treatments that are not only functional but also accentuate the symmetrical layout and large, multi-pane windows characteristic of the style. This 32″ x 14″ white window can enhance the light and openness of your home while maintaining the elegant aesthetic.
Stepping into a Neoclassical home feels like entering a realm of sophistication and grace, and these products can help you bring that elegance into your own living space.
13. The Vibrant Shingle Style
Shingle style homes are known for their distinctive wooden shingles that cover the exterior, giving them a rustic yet refined look. These homes often feature complex shapes and asymmetrical designs, making them visually intriguing. The use of organic materials enhances the connection to nature, creating a seamless blend with the environment.
To bring the charm of shingle style into your own space, consider adding a piece like the wooden shingle wall art. This handcrafted decor can evoke the rustic elegance of shingle style homes, perfect for any room in your house, whether it be the living room, bedroom, kitchen, or office.
For those looking to dive deeper into architectural designs like shingle style, a great resource is Architectural Design Books. This book offers insights and annotations on various styles, helping you appreciate the intricate details that define shingle style homes.
Key Elements of shingle style homes include:
– Wooden shingles
– Asymmetrical designs
– Wide eaves
– Varied roof shapes
Shingle style homes are the perfect blend of rustic charm and architectural elegance, and incorporating elements that reflect this style in your home can be truly rewarding.
14. The Enchanting Prairie Style
Prairie style homes embrace horizontal lines and open spaces, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The design often incorporates natural materials, fostering a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. With their low roofs and large overhangs, these homes exude an inviting feel that welcomes you in.
To enhance this natural aesthetic, consider using natural wood stain. This product allows you to maintain the beauty of wood accents while providing a protective finish that enriches the grain. It’s perfect for highlighting wooden features that define the unique character of your home.
Prairie style homes typically feature open floor plans that promote connectivity and flow. To ensure your spaces are illuminated by natural light, large windows are essential. You can dress these expansive windows with large window treatments, such as sheer curtains. These not only allow sunlight to filter in softly but also enhance the overall aesthetic with their textured design.
Finally, for architecture enthusiasts, why not indulge in a wooden architectural model kit? This DIY project can be a delightful way to appreciate the intricate details of Prairie style homes while also making for an engaging activity.
Prairie style homes are all about bringing the outdoors in, making them perfect for nature lovers. These thoughtful additions can enhance your space, reflecting the beauty of this architectural style.
15. The Captivating Tudor Revival
Tudor Revival homes echo the charm of medieval England with their steeply pitched roofs and decorative half-timbering. This architectural style often features tall, narrow windows and brick facades, creating an enchanting look that can truly transform your living experience. To enhance the rustic and romantic aesthetic of a Tudor Revival home, consider adding tasteful decor and lighting options.
For example, the book Tudor Style Home Decor Book offers a wealth of inspiration and knowledge about Tudor Revival architecture, helping you appreciate the nuances of this style while finding ideas to beautifully decorate your own space.
To bring the architectural charm into your home, a piece of wall art like the architectural style wall art can serve as a stunning focal point in any room. This canvas poster captures the essence of Tudor Revival design, making it a perfect addition to your decor.
Furthermore, outdoor spaces can also reflect the enchanting style of Tudor Revival homes. Consider the Tudor Revival style outdoor lighting, which serves not only as practical illumination but also complements the overall aesthetic with its farmhouse elements and classic black sand finish.
With these thoughtful additions, you can create a living environment that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, embodying all the distinctive features of Tudor Revival architecture.
16. The Alluring Aesthetic Movement
The Aesthetic Movement style emphasizes beauty and artfulness in design. These homes often showcase elaborate ornamentation and vibrant colors that capture the eye. To help you embrace this style in your own space, consider incorporating some key elements that reflect the essence of Aesthetic Movement homes.
One way to add a touch of vibrant color is through the vibrant color paint set. This set includes 16 assorted matte colors, perfect for creating bold accents that resonate with the artistic expressions of this design style.
Next, to enhance the decorative aspects, you might want to explore the use of tiles. The Victorian style decorative tiles are an excellent choice for backsplashes or staircase risers. Their intricate designs can elevate your home’s aesthetic while staying true to the elaborate ornamentation characteristic of the Aesthetic Movement.
Don’t forget about the windows, as unique designs can serve as a focal point. Consider adding some charm with unique window design curtains. These beige crochet sheer curtains will not only provide a vintage touch but also complement the artistic elements of your home.
With attention to these details, your space can truly celebrate creativity and make a bold statement in any neighborhood.
17. The Stunning Mission Style
Mission style homes reflect Spanish and Mission Revival influences, featuring adobe-like facades and tiled roofs. To enhance the stunning aesthetic of these homes, consider using products that align with their unique architectural details.
For instance, to achieve that classic adobe look, you can utilize adobe texture paint. This 2 oz medium is perfect for adding texture to your walls, creating the inviting feel characteristic of Mission style homes.
Additionally, decorative elements play a significant role in these homes, and using Mission style decorative tiles can enhance your interior or exterior spaces. These self-adhesive tiles feature beautiful Moroccan and Mexican designs, making them a great choice for backsplashes in kitchens, living rooms, or bathrooms, while contributing to that authentic Mission aesthetic.
Moreover, handcrafted features are essential in crafting a warm ambiance. Incorporate handcrafted wooden furniture to add charm to your space. This set of four solid wood replacement feet can give your existing furniture a lovely, rustic touch, ensuring your home feels inviting and unique.
With their adobe-like facades, tiled roofs, and handcrafted elements, Mission style homes bring a sense of tranquility and charm, making them a wonderful choice for any homeowner.
18. The Elegant Federal Style
Federal style homes exude a timeless elegance, known for their symmetry and classic detailing. The beauty of these homes lies in their ability to create a grand first impression through features such as tall, multi-pane windows and decorative moldings that enhance their refined aesthetic.
To achieve this classic look in your own space, consider incorporating elements that echo the Federal style. For example, you can bring a touch of this elegance to your home with Pangda 4 Pcs Corner Wall Molding French Style Wainscoting Panels, which provide a beautiful decorative molding kit that can transform any room and add that sought-after detail.
Additionally, to replicate the tall windows characteristic of Federal homes, a piece like the J JACKCUBE DESIGN Rustic Wood Window Frame can serve as a perfect wall decor option, imbuing your space with a charming, multi-pane window appearance that complements the overall design.
For those interested in learning more about the architectural details that define this style, “Classic America the Federal Style & Beyond” is a great resource that can provide inspiration and guidance. You can find it here: Architectural Design Books.
These products not only help you emulate the elegance of Federal style homes but also reflect a sense of balance and refinement that can elevate your own living space.
19. The Cozy Cottage Style
Cottage-style homes offer a warm, welcoming aesthetic with their quaint designs and charming details. These homes typically feature steep roofs, small verandas, and intricate woodwork that add to their whimsical appeal. To enhance the cozy ambiance of a cottage, consider adding some decorative elements that resonate with this style.
For instance, incorporating cottage style decorative trim around your bulletin boards or windows can add a touch of charm and help create that storybook feel.
Additionally, a cozy fireplace is essential for creating a comforting atmosphere. The cozy fireplace insert not only provides warmth but also comes with nine color options to suit your mood and decor, making it a perfect fit for a cottage living space.
Lastly, consider adding a unique element to your garden or patio area with the steep roof garden decor, which can beautifully complement the cottage aesthetic while providing a whimsical focal point.
Living in a cottage-style home feels like being in a storybook, perfect for those who cherish charm. With these additions, you can enhance the coziness and whimsical character of your home.
20. The Beautiful Modern Victorian
Modern Victorian homes blend traditional Victorian elements with contemporary designs, creating a unique fusion. These homes often feature open floor plans and large windows that allow for abundant natural light, while still maintaining classic Victorian characteristics like intricate trim and charming balconies.
To enhance this modern take on a classic style, consider incorporating Victorian style decorative trim to add that intricate detail reminiscent of traditional craftsmanship. It’s perfect for furniture and can elevate the aesthetic of any room, blending the old-world charm with contemporary sensibilities.
Additionally, to embrace the natural light that large windows provide, you might want to adorn your walls with pieces like the large modern windows canvas wall art. This artwork creates a stunning visual focal point, reminiscent of the beauty found in nature, and brings an inviting feel to your space.
Finally, don’t forget about the outdoor areas; balconies and porches that invite relaxation can be furnished with a cozy outdoor balcony furniture set. This stylish 3-piece patio bistro set not only complements the modern Victorian aesthetic but also provides a perfect place to unwind and enjoy your surroundings.
The result is a home that feels fresh and inviting while being rich in history, making it ideal for those who appreciate tradition but also desire a contemporary living space.
21. The Majestic Craftsman
Craftsman style homes are renowned for their attention to detail and handcrafted quality. These homes often feature exposed beams, built-in furniture, and extensive use of natural materials that create a warm atmosphere. To enhance the charm of your Craftsman home, consider incorporating pieces that celebrate this craftsmanship.
For instance, adding a beautiful Crafters and Weavers Craftsman/Mission Morris chair in leather can provide both comfort and a classic aesthetic. This chair not only complements the intricate woodwork typical of Craftsman homes but also serves as a functional piece of art.
Additionally, to accentuate the home’s architectural features, you might consider installing hanging ceiling lights with a rustic wood beam design. These fixtures, particularly with multiple heads, can draw attention to your exposed beams and enhance the overall cozy vibe in rooms like the kitchen or dining area.
Lastly, no Craftsman home is complete without a cozy fireplace. To ensure you have everything you need for enjoying your fireside moments, check out the heavy duty fireplace tools. This set includes a long poker and tongs, which are both practical and add to the rustic charm of your indoor or outdoor fireplace.
A Craftsman home isn’t just a house; it’s a personal work of art that speaks to the soul, and these thoughtfully selected products can enhance its warmth and beauty even further.
Conclusion: Embracing Victorian Charm
Victorian architecture is a beautiful tapestry of styles and designs, each with its own story to tell.
These homes invite us to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that went into their creation.
Whether you’re a lover of history, an admirer of aesthetics, or simply looking to fall in love with architecture, these exterior Victorian style homes are sure to captivate your heart.
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