Victorian Mystery Style Guide
Welcome to the Victorian Mystery Season, Redecorator! It’s a Season all about theatrics, extravagance, mystery, and of course, modern Victorian interiors. Modern Victorian is about combining the old and the new, and to us, there is always an air of mystery in these designs.
Follow Victoria, an interior designer who receives a secret message from a nameless client asking her to decorate his Victorian mansion for the Halloween ball. Prepare yourself to not only be a designer, but also a detective, as you’ll scour the mansion for clues. And of course, as always, you’ll get to express your creative skills, getting a chance to learn more about the modern Victorian decor style.
But what exactly is this design style? To start, we must go back…
How did this style come about?
Before modern Victorian, there was, of course, Victorian interior design. Victorian era design refers to the style when Queen Victoria reigned over the UK from the 1830s to the early 1900s. Victorian era spaces featured a great deal of items, patterns and furnishings. The style is quite busy so a more modern version was developed to use in today’s homes.
Hence the birth of modern Victorian.
So what is modern Victorian?
The modern Victorian look is one that blends the style of the Victorian era with modern day decor. And it’s totally personal! You choose which elements of Victorian decor you want to combine with modern elements.
So how can I create a modern Victorian space?
Here are some ways you can design an incredible modern Victorian home.
In with the old, in with the new
The trick to modern Victorian is bringing in the right elements of Victorian interior design that you love whilst also creating a modern space. You might want to bring in a bit of drama, as this is what Victorian era design was all about. Think a glimmering chandelier and marble fireplace next to an industrial looking chair and a piece of abstract art.
Colors, Colors Everywhere
If you’re a “white is the best color” type of person, we invite you to try working with rich colors. If the extravagant rich color palette of Victorian interiors is too much for you, try mixing one or two of these deep colors with neutral or light colors. What about a statement wall painted in moody blue, paired with light wood furnishings and a cream colored sofa? Experiment, and don’t be afraid!
The color palette of this Season, as you can see, combines super rich blues, reds, greens, purples and even turquoise with much lighter pink shades. The combination of these colors in one design create the modern Victorian vibe you’re looking for.
Textures & patterns are everything
Because more is more with modern Victorian interiors, textures and patterns will add so much to your space. Popular textures are fringed fabrics, velvets, marble, tufting and wood. Patterns such as plaids, stripes, florals and dasasks are used often on walls, upholstery and curtains. Adding metal accents can offset the heaviness of any of these textures.
Lighting is super important
Because you may be using rich colors in your design, choosing accurate lighting is important to make sure the room doesn’t appear too dark. Lighting fixtures are also important in this style. If your furniture is feeling modern, consider a classic chandelier. If the room feels super Victorian, look around for a more contemporary lamp.
Accessorize & you’re done!
Details were never overlooked in Victorian era homes, and they shouldn’t be either in your modern Victorian space. Lots of accessories are key in this type of style, but not too much, and always combine old with new. Fringed and lace pillows next to a brass lamp on top of a burgundy rug will create the right balance.
We recommend you use this Season to explore your mysterious side with modern Victorian interiors. Don’t be afraid to use color, drama, moodiness, richness and lots and lots of modern elements!
