Victorian Architecture

What, exactly, is Victorian? Many people use the term to describe an architectural style. However, Victorian is not really a style but a period in history. The Victorian era dates from about 1840 to 1901. During this time, industrialization brought many innovations in architecture.

There are a variety of Victorian styles, each with its own distinctive features.The most popular Victorian styles spread quickly through widely published pattern books. Builders often borrowed characteristics from several different styles, creating unique mixes.

In reaction to the classical style of the previous century, the Victorian age saw a return to traditional British styles in building, Tudor and neo-Gothic being the most popular. The Gothic Revival, as it was termed was a recoil from the mass produced monotony of the Industrial Revolution. It was a romantic yearning for the traditional, comforting past.

Houses were often large, and terribly inconvenient to live in. The early Victorians had a taste for overly elaborate details and decoration.

In late Victorian times the pendulum swung to the other extreme and the style was simpler, using traditional vernacular models such as the English farmhouse. Ardwy Orme was built in the late Victorian era and represents the simpler, less ornate Late Victorian period.

The Industrial Revolution made possible the use of new materials such as iron and glass. The Pier at Llandudno is a fine example of Victorian ironwork.