Whether you’re a fan of romantic series or not, you may not have missed the famous “Bridgerton”, broadcast on Netflix. The saga charms as much by its characters, its love stories, its costumes… as by its Victorian interior design, also known as Regent style. Here’s a closer look at this British-style decor, which is still being emulated today.
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This genre, born during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837 to her death in 1901) takes its inspiration from Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles, but not only. It also drew inspiration from Middle Eastern and Asian designs. Distinguished by its attention to detail, this trend spread to England, in the decoration of Victorian homes, but not only there.
If we look back to our own time, thanks to the adventures of the Bridgerton family, carved wood furniture, flowery curtains and porcelain vases are making a comeback in Victorian interiors, much to our delight.
Would you like to know more about the trendy Victorian interior design, both its history and the decorating elements to choose? Then follow this guide, it’s got all the answers.
How do you recognize Victorian interior design?
Decoration (and architecture) in the Victorian era blended several trends: neo-Gothic, Gothic, Oriental, neo-Greek and Baroque (recognizable by its sinuous lines and carved leaves). This genre glorified ornamentation, gilding, dark carved wood, checkered and colorful prints, floral wallpapers and tapestries.
Today, these elements blend seamlessly to enhance classic, colonial, vintage, contemporary and even design worlds, giving them a So British touch.
Incorporate Victorian style furniture into your home
As we’ve seen, Victorian furniture was inspired by a variety of trends and motifs. With its elegance and dynamism, the Regent style continues to appeal. And very much so for those who are not afraid to mix styles and motifs, in a very English spirit. Adding Regency-style furniture to your home is as chic as it is exotic!
If you opt for imposing Victorian furniture, be careful not to overload the space. Of course, you won’t furnish a 15 m2 room in the same way as a 30 m2 room:
- In larger spaces, it’s possible to arrange several pieces of period furniture.
- In smaller spaces, settle for one piece of antique furniture, such as a chaise longue, a pair of antique chairs with carved backs, a period chest of drawers or an armchair, but not too imposing. They’ll add a lovely touch of romance to modern or classic interiors.
Choose dark, natural wood furniture in precious species such as mahogany or walnut. For a chic look, choose furniture with curved lines and carved decorations.
Upholstery is also important. Victorian chairs, sofas and armchairs are upholstered and comfortable. A leather or velvet sofa will fit perfectly into your Victorian living room.
Fabrics at the heart of Victorian interior design
Fabrics also give Victorian interior design its identity. On walls, furniture – they’re everywhere! For a perfectly British look, opt for rich fabrics (velvets, silks…) and intricate patterns: floral, leafy, natural or stylized.
To recreate the ambience of a Victorian castle, install thick, floral curtains with ribbons that fall from the ceiling to the floor. Place a reddish-brown or burgundy Oriental rug on the floor. On your sofa, place cushions and bolsters in graphic floral patterns. In the bedroom, chintz blankets with floral prints will embellish your bedding.
Tapestries and wallpapers inspired by the Victorian era
Characteristic of the Bridgerton series, tapestries and wallpapers are a must-have for vintage English decorating. Prefer them with floral motifs. To recreate an authentic Victorian ambience, toile de Jouy and bird motifs will also create a sensation. For a very modern effect, wallpaper just one wall and keep the other walls painted white.
You can also target a recess and choose a wall color. The more daring won’t be afraid to marry two wallpapers: a floral and a tartan, for example, or to lean a sofa with a graphic fabric against a wall covered with a very graphic square wallpaper.
In a small space, consider dressing the back of a window, a bookcase or even a door. Many brands and publishers draw inspiration from this period for their wallpapers and tapestries. You’ll have no trouble finding one, and the good news is that there’s something to suit every budget.
Very Victorian decorative objects
We characterize the Victorian interior design by a multitude of decorative objects: porcelain vases, figurines, statues, sculptures, paintings, oriental rugs…
While this abundance of decorative objects may seem exuberant in a contemporary home, use your ingenuity! Place a few figurines on your modern shelves in moderation. Display your paintings on a single wall. Place your English tea service and your finest porcelain teapot in a pretty wooden china cabinet.
Finally, a wood-panelled wall or a large bookcase adorned with antique books and decorative objects will complete the ensemble for a guaranteed British look.
Light fixtures
It’s impossible to design a Regency-style home without thinking about voluminous chandeliers and candles! If you have high ceilings, go for a large crystal chandelier. It will bring a touch of elegance to your living room or dining room. As well as acting as a decorative accessory, it illuminates the room with soft, comfortable light.
Complete the lighting scheme with table lamps and wall sconces. Shades can be made of fabrics in colors matching those of the room.
Surprise your guests: decorate your table with a Victorian brass chandelier and long candles for a successful candlelit dinner.
The XXL mirror
Large-format mirrors and ornamental frames are also essential to the Bridgerton look. Not only does the mirror embellish your wall, it also brightens and enlarges the room. Whether hung or simply placed on the floor, choose a solid wood frame carved and gilded with gold leaf. The Bridgerton effect is guaranteed!
