Although vastly different from the Scandinavian and minimalist design trends that have dominated the past decade, Victorian design and decor aesthetic has consistently remained a well-loved, if ornamental, style since its inception in the 1830s during the reign of Queen Victoria.
According to Mona Ying Reeves, Founder and Designer at Re:modern, a design firm in San Francisco, interior spaces from the original Victorian era were characterized by an exuberance of ornamentation, historical influences, and handicraft—all of which can be easily adapted to the current design aesthetic—which is why the style remains relevant as trends and tastes change.
Traditional Victorian spaces tend to be compartmentalized and often dark, which lends to them feeling cramped and outdated but the good news is that there are some easy ways to bring a Victorian sensibility into modern decor today. We spoke to experts about how to embrace a modern Victorian aesthetic in your home.
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Focus on Craft
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While most of us don’t have time to hand-embroider textiles or crochet doilies like they did back in the 18th century, we can still infuse a high level of craft into the decor, says Ying Reeves. Look for decorative elements that use today’s artistry or technology in an ornamental way. Examples of this might include laser-cut textiles or artisan made furniture. The idea is to steer clear of mass-produced finishes and furnishings in favor of the well-crafted.
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Pair Ornamentation with Simplicity
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Love all the lace, toile, and gilded finishes of an old Victorian? Show them off as treasured artifacts by placing them alongside simple, clean elements. “The contrast between the traditional ornamentation against a more neutral backdrop will make the style feel more fresh and modern,” explains Ying Reeves.
