Across the UK, there are hundreds of thousands of period properties. From timber-framed Tudor buildings to early 20th century Art Deco and Modernist homes, period houses have a distinct character which reflects the architecture of the era when they were built. Perhaps the most prolific period for housebuilding in the UK was between the mid-nineteenth century and the early twentieth century.
The British Empire was at its peak, and the financial benefits were being seen in towns and cities throughout the country. During the reigns of Queen Victoria (1830 – 1901) and King Edward VII (1901 – 1910), UK housebuilding increased exponentially. Today, both Victorian and Edwardian properties are sought-after styles for the modern homebuyer. Their traditional character and impressive architecture continue to appeal to a wide cross-section of home buyers.
Victorian, Edwardian and even Georgian properties are often collectively referred to as classical or period properties. So, can you spot the difference between an Edwardian and a Victorian house? Here are some characteristics unique to each era.
The Victorian era is well-known for the Industrial Revolution. Thousands of terraced properties were built to house workers close to factories, particularly in the industrial North and Midlands. The Victorian era, however, is not all about rows of terraced housing. Many larger properties were also built to house the wealthier members of society. Some distinctive characteristics of a Victorian property are:
High pitched roofs
Ornate gable trim
Bay windows
Two over two panel sash windows (supported with a single astragal bar on each sash)
Sash window horns
Decorative brickwork (often in red)
Stained glass windows
The Victorian era is the second longest reign in the UK’s history, only recently surpassed in 2015 by our current queen Elizabeth II. It’s inevitable, therefore, that there is some cross-over from the preceding Georgian period and the following Edwardian era. The features above, however, are typical of Victorian properties.
TheEdwardian era is often viewed as the pinnacle of the UK’s influence on the world stage. At home, advancements in technology combined with wealth from overseas allowed architects to design properties to meet the needs of a rapidly changing demographic. As the middle classes moved out of the city into the suburbs, housing was built to reflect their changing priorities. An Edwardian property is often characterised by:
Georgian revival architecture
Mock-Tudor cladding
Six over two panel sash windows
Larger glass panes
Large proportions
Simple designs influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement
Timber framed porches
In every era, there are exceptions to the rule. As a general guide, however, the above characteristics will serve you well, especially if you are considering owning a period property.
Windows for Period Properties
If you live in a period property, whether Victorian or Edwardian – or Georgian, for that matter – and you’re thinking about getting new windows, the Rose Collection could be for you.
With plenty of sash window options, including the Ultimate Rose, Heritage Rose, and Charisma Rose, you can authentically replace your windows without having to worry about how they would fit into your period property. Even if you’re building a new property that is designed to look like a traditional heritage property, you can design your bespoke sash window to suit the required style.
For more information about our suite of sliding sash windows or any other enquiry, get in touch with us. We look forward to transforming your period property!
The interiors of Edwardian properties typically feature high ceilings that create a sense of spaciousness. This design element contrasted with the lower ceilings often found in Victorian houses. Edwardian houses aimed to create brighter and more open interior spaces.
So, unlike the smaller, darker Victorian homes, Edwardian houses were more squat, wider and roomy, with bigger hallways and more windows. It's common for an Edwardian property to have a front garden and be set back from the pavement, as there was an ever-increasing desire for privacy at that time.
After the dark fabrics, heavy skirts and bustles of the Victorian era, Edwardian fashion turned to lighter, blousier styles that aimed to liberate women from the stiff conventions of the nineteenth century.
Edwardian fashion from the late 1800s continued to influence the early 1900s. Women still wore corsets and long skirts. Men still wore suits. A complete wardrobe included hats and gloves and, for women, often an umbrella. Edwardian fashion was opulent and formal, with expensive fabrics and trimmings.
Internally, they are known for ornate decorative details, including floor tiles, stained glass windows and wood flooring, as well as large rooms with high ceilings. Living rooms would also often benefit from a dual aspect with windows at both ends, covered by a small sloping roof on the outside.
Edwardian-style homes are associated with the first two decades of the 20th century, reaching the height of popularity during King Edward VII's reign. They are known for being spacious and well-suited to families.
Many Victorian/Edwardian homes have partial full cellars, with a crawlspace beneath part of the house. The reason why some houses were given basem*nts and others weren't isn't to do with personal preferences or differences in the technical ability of their builders.
Edwardian furniture tends to be more free-spirited, rejecting the restraint of the previous Victorian period as a result of Edward VII's love of fashion and the arts. Colours also changed as the style moved away from the darker shades of Victorian furniture toward lighter colours that created a less imposing look.
From terraced houses in the city to charming cottages in the countryside, Edwardian interiors are known for their opulent, light-filled rooms, with delicate ornamental accessories, wooden floors and feature tiling.
Although the Edwardian period lasted just nine years from 1901 to 1910, the architectural style is considered to have continued to around 1920, ten years after Edward VII's death.
Victorian jewellery often featured brightly coloured gemstones like amethyst, topaz and garnet, which were used to create bold and eye-catching pieces. In contrast, Edwardian jewellery favoured the use of diamonds and other precious gemstones which were often set in lacy settings to create a light and delicate look.
Victorian interior design is a style that originated in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. Known for its abundance of pattern (in wall coverings and in textiles), ornamentation, and use of jewel tones, the interior decoration style absorbs the visitor in its rich world.
What is Edwardian style décor? Cheerful, elegant, fresh and light is the best way to describe Edwardian interior décor. Pastel colour schemes became fashionable, as well as floral and embossed wallpapers and paintings; largely influenced by Art Nouveau designs.
Victorian style is recognizable by its rich color palette, bold patterns, ornate furnishings, layered textiles and intricate accents. Used correctly, Victorian-style decor can create a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere, but it's easy to go wrong.
Although the Edwardian period lasted just nine years from 1901 to 1910, the architectural style is considered to have continued to around 1920, ten years after Edward VII's death.
Introduction: My name is Mr. See Jast, I am a open, jolly, gorgeous, courageous, inexpensive, friendly, homely person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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