We might not know how exactly to describe it, but we know one when we see one. You know, homes that look like this:
Interior Designer: Latitude Design
Whether it's pared down and rustic, or lavish (and a little OTT), the Modern Victorian style is a timeless look (yes, that's the term) that many Malaysians love and still go for over the years.
Interior Designer: Metrics Global Sdn Bhd
While Modern Victorian homes have always been popping up on our feeds, this classic style is now going through a major revival. Featuring dark schemes and fancy detailing, more new homes are going for its posh, sophisticated look in recent times.
And we're so here for it - bringing a touch of polished luxe, here's how to nail the Modern Victorian interior style for your home.
What is Modern Victorian?
Source: Pinterest
Victorian décor – whether classic or with a twist – is never plain or sparse! It is in fact, rich and textured, charming and sophisticated. The theme echoes the décor styles that were popular during the reign of Queen Victoria. She ruled for slightly over six decades and thus, the style isn’t quite contained to a small period.
Interior Designer: Hatch Interior Studio
Moreover, many Victorian décor pieces were often fashioned after the Tudor, Elizabethan and Gothic design era. You may also find other pieces blended with Asian and Middle Eastern influences reflecting the colonisation of these regions and their exported style. Thus, “true” Victorian décor is rather difficult to pin down.
Source: Pinterest
However, a Modern Victorian look is all about bridging these elements with a contemporary or even minimalist twist. The result is a polished, less-cluttered appearance that still maintains its timeless look.
How to Nail the Modern-Victorian Style
It isn't the easiest of interior styles to accomplish, but there are 5 key design facets to achieving an on-point, Modern Victorian look.
1. Deep Hues
Interior Designer: Cozy Ideas Interior Design (Singapore)
The colours that define Victorian décor are very much reminiscent of dreary English weather and soot. Yes – soot! This is because, the industrial revolution, which took place during the reign of Queen Victoria, produced heavy smog that discoloured.
Interior Designer: Latitude Design
So naturally, duskier hues were a better option to conceal dirt. Modern takes would incorporate an ashy wash over colours like crimson, burgundy, chestnut, taupe and olive green.
2. Long, Heavy Curtains
Interior Designer: Latitude Design
Curtains play a big part in most decors, but more so with Victorian themes. The framing of the entire room rests on the power of an imposing set of drapes. Thus, choose longer, floor-to-ceiling curtains in single tones or small patterns in linen, velvet or cotton for delicate impact.
3. Mix-and-Match
Interior Designer: SQFT Space Design Management
For Victorian décor that is also current, you’ll need to balance the old style with newer pieces. For instance, to accompany heavier Victorian furniture sets, do pair with modern chairs i.e. Eames or clear acrylics, etc.
4. Intricate Patterns
Interior Designer: Genesis Mission Sdn Bhd
An ornate theme is present in Victorian décor with everything from wallpaper to drapery, carpets and upholstery. Small floral patterns are quite common, as are damasks. For a new twist, try deeper hues that add fresh colouring to these patterns. For instance, consider shades of deep blue and scarlet in intricate floral patterns or a warm sky blue and white on damask.
5. Opt for Antique(-ish) Furniture Pieces
Interior Designer: Metrics Global Sdn Bhd
Quite obviously, 19th century English furniture and décor pieces would mark the sign of the times perfectly. But real antique pieces might be a tad over budget for most! To get the look, source for modern reproductions of balloon-back or spoon-back oval and parlour chairs, tables with bobbin-turned legs as well as what-not shelves.
Interior Designer: The Scientist (Singapore)
But where would one fine Victorian furniture or décor pieces in Malaysia? Try sites like Hauslife or even Etsy.
This lovely Victorian mirror from Hauslife is a defining décor piece. Just place it on a shelf in the living room for instant Victorian flair. If possible, position it opposing a window to maximise natural sunlight.
Like the Modern Victorian Look?
With intricate details and a need to balance the old with new - pulling off this oft-tricky style will require the adept hands of a professional interior designer! We can help - request for a free quote here, and get matched up to 5 interior firms, based on your budget and style.
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