Victorian architecture

The Victorian architectural period basically includes the last three-quarters of the nineteenth century. The Victorian architecture was seen as a new kind of modernism, which is one reason for its instant popularity. Before the Victorian era architecture was extremely simple and was not fashionable for private residence. The creativity and ornateness of this period was much needed to fulfill the people's new found love of exquisite design. There were many architectural styles present in the Victorian era.

Italianate--(1860-1880)--These houses were recognized primarily by their angled bay windows. They further had corniced (roof overhang) eaves, flat roof lines, and Corinthian-column porches.

Stick-Style--(1880-1890)--This style introduced bay side windows perpendicular to the front window. Each house also had a unique roof often with a distinct gable. This was basically a linear motif.

Queen Anne Style--(1885-1905)--This style had high-pitched roof, front porches, and ornamental shingles. Wrap around porches with classical columns and towers were also common. These generally painted with bold color schemes. This style was dominant in middle-class row houses.

Edwardian--(1905-1920)--Edwardian style houses generally have simpler trim than previous Victorian styles. These were constructed of wood, stucco, brick, or a combination while other styles were all made of redwood.

The characteristic American Carpenter Gothic was the main style in the United States. It had steep gables and pointed windows. "American Gothic" is the term now applied to all homes of typical Victorian design. These homes mark the real beginning of American architecture. All over America today, many homes of the Victorian period still stand and are considered the most beautiful in any neighborhood.