Modern Victorian Decorating Ideas That Aren’t Stuffy

Although Victorian design and decorative aesthetics are very different from the minimalist and Scandinavian design trends that have dominated the last decade, it has remained a popular style, be it decorative, since it began in the 1830s during the reign of Queen Victoria.

According to Mona In Reeves, founder and designer of San Francisco-based design firm Re:modern, early Victorian-era interiors were characterized by rich decor and historical influences, history and crafts—all of which can be easily adapted to modern design aesthetics. – this is why the style remains relevant as trends and tastes change.

Traditional Victorian spaces tend to be compartmentalized and often dark, making them feel cramped and dated, but the good news is that there are some easy ways to bring a Victorian feel to your current decor. We spoke to experts about how to incorporate modern Victorian aesthetics into your home.

01 Focus on Craft

While most of us don’t have the time to hand-embroider fabrics or crochet placemats like we did in the 18th century, says Yin Reeves, we can still bring great craftsmanship to our decor. Look for decorative pieces that incorporate contemporary art or technology. Examples of this would be laser cut fabrics or handcrafted furniture. The idea is to move away from mass-produced furniture and finishes in favor of well-crafted pieces.

02 Pair Ornamentation with Simplicity

Do you like the lace, toilet paper and gilded trim of the old Victorian style? Display them as precious artifacts by placing them next to simple and clear elements. “The contrast between traditional decor and a more neutral background will make the style feel fresh and modern,” explains In Reeves.

03 Juxtapose Scales

“Victorian spaces are often filled with eclectic collections,” says In Reeves. “Bringing this idea into the modern era by combining scales.” You can pair a large pendant lamp with intricate wallpaper or opt for a large sofa in a small living room. Increased proportions will help the space feel more modern and will also help create a sense of interest in keeping with the Victorian aesthetic.

04 Include Your Own Personal Style

Creating the perfect modern Victorian home is all about blending your personal style with Victorian and modern styles in a way that expresses your personality. “There’s really nothing wrong with going Victorian as long as you combine Victorian and modern styles in a way that you really like,” shares Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy.

05 Place Emphasis on Good Bones

“Typically, a modern Victorian style begins with the foundation of an old Victorian home,” says Kazimierski. “Keep the same wood frame and style, but add some modern embellishments.” Don’t have a Victorian style home? You can still fake a “good” feel by trying to keep modern pieces more neutral in color so they don’t make the room feel too busy. Any type of wood should have a darker or darker stain, and marble can be a great accent.

06 Go for Bold Colors

“Victorian style often includes more color than modern style, so consider painting your room a bolder, darker color,” says Kazimierski. “Some of the best options are burgundy, navy, olive green or mustard.”

07 Ditch Symmetry

Your niches and other nooks are not symmetrical because by design one is usually wider than the other. Instead, Juan Sandiego, founder of Boreal Abode, recommends trying asymmetry and decorating each corner differently. Tie spaces together using common colors, materials or shapes.

08 Hide the Clutter Away (or Embrace It)

Sandiego says there are two types of memory, and you need to use both to get the perfect balance. First, you have hidden storage areas like closets to store all that unsightly clutter that you don’t want to see. Secondly, there are stylish storage options, such as carefully arranged shelves, whose main purpose is to display your favorite items and bring you pleasure.

09 Draw the Eye Down to the Floor

Spectacular flooring is key to creating a modern Victorian style. Consider using bright tiles or dark flooring for maximum effect. If you’re renting or looking for a less expensive solution, choose a statement rug or animal print rug.

10 Appreciate the Negative Spaces

“The biggest mistake I see people make is filling every surface and leaving empty spaces with furniture,” Sandiego says. “You need negative space so it can breathe (i.e. visually).” Negative space is an area on walls and surfaces where there is nothing and the eye can rest.