The Modern Victorian Aesthetic Will Give Your Home the Most Exquisite Feel

ANNIE SCHLECHTER

Centuries after they were originally introduced, the iconic homes of the Victorian era remain relevant in the interior design world. Their intricate details and craftsmanship, rarely found in contemporary buildings, make the style incredibly recognizable—even to novice design lovers.

Though distinctive, part of the reason the style still holds so much appeal is there are so many ways it can be interpreted and applied. The look pairs equally well with a delicate, feminine aesthetic as it does with a dark, gothic vibe. In fact, the whole modern Victorian look is built on the dichotomy of opposites—predominantly the mix of old and new, which allows for both the beauty of heritage style and the modern luxuries you know and love today.

However iconic, the design can feel on the dated side—but there are ways you can modernize it without losing any charm. If you're looking to infuse the modern Victorian aesthetic into your home, whether by adding a few subtle touches or going all out, here’s what you need to know.

It seems like every time Victorian architecture is highlighted in pop culture—from fashion to home—a near-universal love for the style is rekindled. From the pretty Painted Ladies of San Francisco to the elegant home of American Girl Doll Samantha Pakington—which inspired a newfound passion for ornate architecture—this trend is perennially popular.

Taking its name from Queen Victoria of England, the Victorian architectural period spans from the late 1830s to about 1910. Since the period spans such a long interval, it's not surprising that several subcategories fall under the Victorian umbrella—Gothic Revival, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne are just a few.

Each style has its own hallmarks, but the varied