Old Victorian House Floor Plans : Plans Project

Old Victorian House Floor Plans

Victorian architecture, prevalent in the Victorian era (1837-1901) during Queen Victoria's reign, left an enduring legacy in residential design. Victorian houses are known for their ornate facades, intricate details, and spacious interiors. Floor plans of these homes reflect the architectural and societal norms of the time.

General Characteristics

Victorian house floor plans typically exhibit the following characteristics:

* Asymmetrical Facades: The front of the house often features an asymmetrical arrangement of windows, doors, and gables. * Complex Rooflines: Steeply pitched roofs with multiple gables, chimneys, and dormers are common. * Bay Windows: These projecting windows add extra space and light to rooms. * Wraparound Porches: Many Victorian homes feature covered porches that wrap around the side and/or back of the house. * High Ceilings: Rooms typically have high ceilings, enhancing a sense of spaciousness. * Formal Rooms: Dedicated spaces such as parlors, dining rooms, and music rooms were designed for entertaining and social gatherings.

Common Floor Plan Types

Victorian houses come in a variety of sizes and floor plans, but some common types include:

* Center Hallway Plan: A central hallway runs through the middle of the house, with rooms arranged on either side. * Double Parlor Plan: Two large parlors flank the main entrance, separated by pocket doors that could be opened for grand occasions. * Italianate Plan: Square or rectangular houses with a tower or cupola on one corner. * Gothic Plan: Inspired by medieval architecture, these homes feature pointed arches, steep roofs, and elaborate ornamentation. * Queen Anne Plan: Highly asymmetrical with turrets, gables, and balconies.

Room Features

Individual rooms in Victorian houses also have distinctive features:

* Parlors: Elaborate and richly decorated, these rooms were reserved for special occasions. * Dining Rooms: Large enough to accommodate extended families, these rooms often featured built-in sideboards and china cabinets. * Bedrooms: Typically located on the upper floors, bedrooms were usually smaller and more private. * Kitchens: Located at the back of the house, kitchens were often smaller and separate from the main living areas. * Bathrooms: Initially rare in Victorian homes, bathrooms became more common towards the end of the period.

Influences on Floor Plans

Victorian house floor plans reflect the architectural and societal influences of the time:

* Industrial Revolution: Mass production techniques made it possible to create intricate details and moldings at a lower cost. * Rise of the Middle Class: As the middle class expanded, larger and more elaborate homes became desirable. * Romantic Movement: Victorian architecture drew inspiration from medieval and Gothic styles, evoking a sense of nostalgia and grandeur. * Technological Advancements: Improvements in heating and ventilation systems allowed for more comfortable living in all seasons.

Preservation and Restoration

Today, many Victorian houses have been preserved or restored to maintain their architectural integrity. Preserving these historic landmarks is important for cultural and aesthetic reasons, as they provide a valuable glimpse into the past.

Conclusion

Old Victorian house floor plans are a testament to the architectural ingenuity and social norms of the Victorian era. Their complex designs, spacious interiors, and rich ornamentation continue to captivate and inspire homeowners and architects alike.