Why are Victorian houses so popular?

Why do people like them? First and foremost, people love their space. The proportions are often great in Victorian homes and, more often than not, they're light and bright – the Victorians weren't that far behind the Georgians in wanting big windows from ceiling to floor.

Why did Victorian architecture become popular?

Although the Victorian style's roots are firmly in the past, it owes its popularity and rapid spread to modern technology. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution of the late 18th and early 19th centuries came mass-produced building materials that could now be delivered over long distances.

Are Victorian houses better than new builds?

There is evidence that period homes hold their value better than newer ones – these are designs which have stood the test of time already, while new builds can start to look extremely dated after a few years. Very few period properties are perfect.

When were Victorian houses most popular?

The Victorian look became increasingly popular during the mid-to-late 1800s with influence from the Industrial Revolution. Today, this type of home can be found on several continents from Europe to North America and Australia.

Are Victorian houses worth more?

Properties in historic districts are worth more and tend to grow in value. This is because many people appreciate Victorian houses' unique architecture and high build quality.

Why are Victorian houses so popular?

How long will a Victorian house last?

Built to last: Most Victorian homes are around 150 years old, and they are usually as sturdy as they were when they were first made. Any house that has lasted that long with no major issues is definitely worth investing in.

Why do Victorian houses last so long?

Victorian houses were built to last using quality materials and good design. Although due to their age they need careful maintenance, luckily our house seems to have been quite well looked after over the years.

Are Victorian houses well built?

Victorian homes are always popular among house-hunters. They offer a home with period features, a good layout and are often well-built.

What makes a Victorian house unique?

Victorian homes are usually large and imposing. Wood or stone exterior. The majority of Victorian styles use wood siding, but the Second Empire and Romanesque styles almost always have outer walls made of stone. Complicated, asymmetrical shape.

Where did rich Victorians live?

Wealthy Victorian families lived in large detached and semi-detached townhouses with room for servants. Reception rooms were high-ceilinged and designed to impress guests. They had elaborately moulded cornices and marble fireplaces. This show of opulence wasn't restriced to the interior of the house.

Do Victorian houses have foundations?

The fact that Victorian and Georgian houses have been standing tall for decades – sometimes even centuries – proves that they are sturdy structures. By today's standards, Victorian foundations seem very shallow and in some cases, the concrete footings are no more than 200mm deep.

Are Victorian houses solid?

In general, Victorian houses built before the late 19th century are more likely to have solid walls, while those built after are more likely to have cavity walls.

Are Edwardian houses better than Victorian?

The Edwardian home on the inside was far less cluttered that the typical Victorian home. As the world transitioned from oil and gas lamps to electric light, walls could be lighter as they did not get so dirty and looked better in the brighter light.

Where are Victorian houses most common?

Old Louisville in Kentucky has the highest concentration of restored Victorian homes in the US. Originally called the Southern Extension, Old Louisville was built in the 1870s as a suburb, which was 48 city blocks long and filled with Victorian mansions.

What age is a Victorian house?

Date: Victorian houses were built between 1837 and 1901, when Queen Victoria was on the throne. The Victorian age saw the introduction of the modern terrace - with a living room at the front, and a kitchen at the back - to house the many people who moved into urban areas for jobs and a better life.

What influenced Victorian houses?

History of the Victorian House

They originated during the reign of Queen Victoria in 1837 – 1901, which is where the name comes from. This style, although now so iconic in and of itself, actually borrows from many different architectural styles before it. Gothic and Romanesque architecture were heavy influences.

Why are Victorian houses so cold?

“Plus, most Victorian homes were built with solid walls and no internal cavity where you could put insulation. Often, they also lack insulation in the roof and floors.” This lack of insulation means they lose heat much quicker than modern homes, while fireplaces and floorboards can make them prone to draughts.

What were poor Victorian houses like?

The homes of the poor were small, cold and damp and often infested with lice and vermin. Water would be collected from a dirty pump in the street and filthy outdoor toilets would be shared with dozens of neighbours. Stoves were new and expensive, so many homes didn't have any way of making hot meals.

Why do Victorian houses have turrets?

Why do Victorian houses have turrets? Victorian architecture often included a turret - smallish, cylindrical towers attached to the corner of the home. It's a hallmark feature of these homes that distinguishes them from other British styles. Originally, turrets were used in castles as a defense mechanism.

Why are Victorian houses ceilings so high?

Victorian houses were designed with high ceilings to give the illusion of generous space, even in smaller terraced properties, while the quality of wall and ceiling mouldings was directly related to the status of the house. The more ornate, the grander the home.

Are Victorian houses money pits?

Victorian houses were pretty solidly built. At least most of them were and a survey will show up any serious problems. After that, they're as much of a money pit as you want/can afford them to be.

Do Victorian houses have thick walls?

In England, houses built before the 1930s and older periods such as Victorian or Georgian will often have solid brick walls. A solid brick wall is usually 215 mm thick, which is the length of a normal brick.

Are Victorian houses colder?

Old houses and especially Victorian houses are traditionally perceived as cold spooky houses as demonstrated by their prominence in American movies based around Halloween themes and all things creepy. However in general houses have become warmer century after century as our means of heating them has improved.

What are the problems with Victorian houses UK?

Victorian homes are mostly constructed with solid masonry walls that are prone to rainwater penetration. The damp could eventually penetrate through to internal surfaces, causing plaster to crumble and paper to bubble.

Why do Victorian houses have big windows?

The Window Tax was halved in 1832 and then completely repealed in 1851, which encouraged the use of larger windows in Victorian homes. Sliding sash windows were still the norm, but the availability of cheap glass meant that larger individual panes were used with fewer glazing bars.