Victorian Design Fundamentals
The Victorian Period was 1837 to 1901. The period followed the burgeoning of global trade and mass production resulting in a revival of the middle class. As goods became more readily available, people took to outward expression in fashion and design. New techniques and materials were also available for designers to immerse in creativity in which new styles emerged and thus was coined the Victorian Era.
Eclecticism
The style of the period is noted for its eclecticism. In dress and homes alike, over exaggeration and abundance became the style itself. Popular design characteristics include plump and luxurious. 
Designers of the era (and today who mimic the style) favour rich materials such as mahogany wood and ivory. When it comes to colours, Victorian style also favours richness in shades such as ruby red, forest green, or deep blue. Original early Victorian style décor will show a more limited colour palette, as the process of chemical dying was not mastered until later years. Later emerged fantastic shades of green, blue, magenta, violet, and raw pink, which can be used now to accent the darker hues of the earlier period.
Diverse Fabrics
Fabrics were diverse, too. Depending on the change of season, the Victorians epitomized the classic velvet and damask, and cotton and chintz. (Damask is reversible figured fabric; chintz is patterned floral printed usually against a lighter background.)
The style of furniture itself was ornate and large. Button back chairs, pouffes and ottomans were customary. In general though, the design of furniture often borrowed from earlier styles, most notably of Gothic and Rococo.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper exploded during the Victorian era and is an important feature of Victorian design. This was because of the ability of mass production as well as the repeal of the 1712 Wallpaper Tax at the time. They were often elaborately designed in patterns and vivid colours. One of the most famous wallpaper designers at the time was inspired by Medieval and Gothic tapestries, which can be seen on many original walls.
The Victorian Hotel in Vancouver, BC
Victorian design is uniquely distinguishable and popular even today. To get a better understanding of Victorian design, visit Victorian Hotel in Vancouver, BC. The newly renovated Victorian-era building is fully furnished in Victorian style décor offering you a trip to the allure of the 19th century!
Vancouver’s Boutique Hotel Guide
Stay in the loop with our Boutique Hotel Guide. Subscribe to our Twitter Feed and read our blog to get great content and exclusive promotions from Victorian Hotel in Vancouver, BC.