Ceiling Fan Skin Kit (fits most 42inch fans) – Victorian Design Purple – (Fan and fan blades NOT INCLUDED) by wallthat

Ceiling Fan Skin Kit (fits most 42inch fans) – Victorian Design Purple – (Fan and fan blades NOT INCLUDED) by wallthat

• READ PRODUCT DESCRIPTION (Ceiling fan and fan blades not included)
• This kit will cover most 4 and 5 blade 42″ ceiling fans.
• Easy to apply with no air bubbles – Made with AirFREE adhesive vinyl.
• Fits most 42″ ceiling fan blades, each blade skin measures 6.5 inches x 18 inches
• 100% Made in the U.S.A.

Installation Instructions:
Required Tools: Sharp Utility Knife.

Our ceiling fan skin sets are made so that one size fits most 42 inch ceiling fans. This means the skins are slightly larger then most blades and require trimming to fit your fan blades.

PLEASE MEASURE your fan blades to assure the skins in this kit will completely cover your fan blades. Each skin in this set measures 18 inches long by 6.5 inches wide.

Professional 5 year indoor/outdoor vinyl with AirFREE adhesive allowing easy application and no air bubbles. Printed with the latest UV protected inks to resist fading for up to 3 year in direct sunlight. Laminated to add a high gloss finish and added protection. Our ceiling fan blade skins look amazing, printed in high resolution for unbeatable color and razor sharp designs.

List Price: $ 44.95

Price:

William Morris’s revolt against the design style of the Day

‘Ars longa, vita brevis’ 1.

Industrial Revolution in England in 19th century was technical and technological development but it was also beginning of revolution of social, value, democratic and cultural transitions, technical and technological achievements leading into capitalisation of contemporary England. Growth of cities, birth of middle class, and mechanisation of production were responsible for the increase of demand of many goods from one side and, on the other hand, possibility of cheap and mass production of the goods. New modern, materials such as iron or stained glass, for example, and easier techniques of production gave great opportunities for designers. Interiors of Victorian era were over furnished, cluttered, dark and eclectic. Among of happiness of socio-technical development citizens, from time to time, played up any critical roles. Father of William Morris was a bill brokers, partner of Sanderson & Co, and his mother was a teacher of music in Worcester. During his childhood, young William spent first, in Elm House, suburban residence of his parents and next in Woodford Hall. Both places had natural surroundings with historical background remembering medieval times. Idyllic atmosphere, wildness of the natural environment, prehistoric echoes was stimulating for small boy with great imagination and sensibility. As fourteen years old boy he was sent to Marlborough College and next in 1853 entered Exeter College, Oxford, studying theology. Maybe, it was the most influential period for young William not only because of his education but also because of people he met there. A great ability of William was, arguably, to win the favour of people as his friends like Edward Burne – Jones, met by Morris in Oxford, who became his friend, mental confederate and later business partner.

‘My work is the embodiment of dreams in one form or another…’ 2.

Formative live in raw, natural surroundings, theological study, next gothic architectural practice in G.E Street firm gave Morris extensive education, open-mindedness and invaluable connections and friendships. Despite of the interest in architecture and design, main activities of William Morris during that time were literature, poetry and translations. Most of them reflected gothic and utopian ideas, which could improve people’s existence, for example. Gothic and medieval art were particular for William Morris as only true, honest, free craftsmanship of art period in history. As it was different idea from existing fascinations of the day. Turning point in cultural and art activities of William Morris was commission of his own house, designed by his other friend Phillip Webb who he met in Oxford as a senior clerk in Street’s office. Because Morris had his own vision of decoration, absolutely opposite to machine-made without artistic spirit, lack of craft and wishy-washy ‘creations’ of 19th century. Decoration style of new Morris’s house fully reflected his artistic, romantic vision, hand-made objects designed with respect for nature, true materials. Entire interior of ‘Red House’, named because of red bricks of which it was made from, was designed and made by him and his friend such as Webb and Jones. Final result was great, clear design and light space. Wallpapers and textiles designed by Morris, wall paintings and stained glass designed by Jones and oak furniture often made in gothic order, designed by Webb. Exposed beams, brick arches contrasting textures, and natural motifs created new value of art. Following this event, in 1861 Morris together with his friend established the firm ‘Morris, Marshal, Faulkner & Co – ‘Fine Art Workmen’. Morris as a writer, poet, artist and visionary but also as a philosopher and good, honest man wants to share his art, happiness of beautifully surroundings with others. The idea of the firm was to create decorative objects which should be made by hand by artist as craftsmen and craftsmen as artist on different areas of specialisation like mural painting, metal work, stained glass or furniture making. In 1862 the firm won two gold medals, their design and objects were fashionable in London, but main clients of the firm were representatives of upper-middle class, because of expressivity of hand-making process of production. Between 1860 and 1870 William Morris concentrated on his work mainly on wallpapers and textiles design. His strong points are floral and animal patterns. His inspiration was taken from nature and gothic influences. Dyes used by him were only natural, vegetables and techniques production were developed from medieval print and based materials were paper or chintz. As a public figure, known mainly as a novelist and social mentor, he encouraged other artists and manufacturers to natural design with natural process of production to unification of artistic idea, manufacturing and designing. He designed 41 wallpapers such as ‘Daisy’, ‘Willow’, ‘Honeysuckle’ or ‘Sunflower’ and 5 ceiling papers, many of  fabrics and textiles such as ‘Acanthus’, ‘Rose’ or ‘Kelmscott Vine’, printing on cotton chintz and wool, next carpets, curtains and tapestries richly coloured, used, for example, in his Kelmscott House in London. Many of this works were used in other houses as his own Kelmscott Manor – holiday residence, with atmosphere described by Morris as ‘melancholy born and beauty’ or Wightwick Manor. Uncarpeted white board floors, with plain white curtains with minimum furniture covered in blue and green patterned textiles. Crucial elements of the Morris’s room were fireplaces as focal points, but first of all like a symbol of family and unity. His designer activity was connected with his social and cultural activity, from the school’s year. He was a member of Brotherhood in Oxford, later connected with Pre-Raphaelites, in 1877 inspirited probably by John Ruskin’s ‘The Nature of Gothic’ essay, he founded The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings’ existing today as SPAB, in 1884 he established contacts with Eleanor Marx Socialist League and in 1890 he founded The Kelmscott Press.  Heritage of William Morris includes over 20 poetry, fiction and essays, over 10 translations, endless quantity of patterns made by him for wallpapers, textiles, tapestry and other artistic objects. His great humanity, his art and his activity in many areas, his ‘Arts and Crafts Movement’ lead directly to ‘Art Nouveau’ as a beginning of modern art. He was the most influential figure of 19th century and arguably, we could call him ‘first modern designer’.

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To summarise, the whole human nature of William Morris and his artistic personality was totally opposite to Victorian style and more to views and ideas of 19th Century.

‘I don’t want art for a few, any more than education for a few or freedom for a few…What business have we with art unless we can all share it?’ 3.

Popular Styles of Bathroom Design

The bathroom has come along way in the past one hundred years. Once just a basic tub set in front of the living room fire and filled with buckets of water, the bathing experience is now a luxury in almost every western home. Back then, a “bathroom” was something only the wealthy and privileged could afford to have in their house. It was this trend which lead to the mass production of bathroom products.

The Edwardian and Victorian styles of the time are still a popular choice today. They look exquisite in a villa or cottage bathroom, and never loose their appeal in terms of design.

Today, thanks to advanced plumbing and modern technology, the bathroom may well have evolved as far as it can. With luxury steam rooms and hydrotherapy baths, it’s difficult to imagine how bathrooms could get any more sophisticated. That said, the bathroom, like any room in the house, is ever changing in terms of design trends.

Here we look at the five most popular styles of bathroom designs. Traditional, Country, Shabby chic, Contemporary and Fantasy.

Traditional

The Traditional bathroom can mean either traditional in terms of Edwardian or Victorian style, or in respect to a standard white bathroom with basic sanitary ware and bath. Here, we’ll be looking at the style of bathroom design where it all started. The Edwardian bathroom.

Over the past decade, with the popularity of TV shows like Changing Rooms, the trend for old-fashioned bathrooms has seen a real upsurge. A rare gem of an old slipper bath or rusty traditional faucet may be found at a scrap yard or in a skip, but thankfully manufacturers are keeping up with demand with skillfully crafted traditional bathroom products.

Certain rooms only work in certain houses, so if you’re living in a modern high rise apartment the traditional bathroom isn’t going to work for you. If you have an old cottage or villa retreat this style of bathroom is one you should definitely consider.

Almost always, the bath is the centre piece attraction of the traditional bathroom. A free-standing roll-top or slipper bath sits proudly on a dark polished floor, and only if going for a traditional continental style bathroom will an inset or sunken tub hold appeal. Either a wall-mounted faucet or a free-standing one looks classy. Deep ridges and curved angles are what makes the traditional sanitary ware what it is – bold and masculine.

When decorating a traditional bathroom both soft tones and bold colours can work well. Strong tones of browns, maroons and greens give a nice warmth to the room, but be sure the bathroom is well lit, maybe with a lavish chandelier. With the right colours, antique gold can look better than chrome. Go for curtains, never blinds. If going for a vanity unit rather than a traditional basin and pedestal, choose an oak or cherry finish; or the white Cynk vanity unit is a good look with traditional baths and toilets.

One of the most appealing things about the traditional bathroom is clutter gives it more of a lived-in effect, thus enhancing the traditional look. Don’t be afraid to put plenty of pictures on the walls – black and white family portraits in gold frames are a good look. A chest of drawers or corner table with scented candles, aromatherapy oils or flowers will really bring the room to life. As a finishing touch an old style set of weighing scales, a large framed mirror or bulky traditional radiator will give the room that cozy old-fashioned feel.

Country

The country style bathroom is perhaps the easiest type of design to create, and like the traditional bathroom only really works well within the right house. The classic country look is best associated with floral wallpaper, high beams, basin frills and a bath canopy. Following the traditional design, cast iron baths and deep ridged sanitary ware are what gives the country bathroom its nostalgic look.

Check, floral or plaid curtains are preferred over roller blinds, and shutters, though rare in England, offer a great form of privacy as well as adding to the country effect. Wood plays a big part in this look, and almost all furniture works well in this setting, especially beech, maple, ash and oak vanity units and cabinets.

Either tiles or wooden floors can be used. Tiles should be a rustic colour, and can be used to create elaborate mosaics. Wooden floors should be varnished to match the furniture. Decorating may see a stenciled motif used as a border, and the technique of rubbing paint on the walls with a sponge gives the room that worn natural look.

Toilets with high level cisterns and pull chains are very rare these days, but a must have for the country bathroom, as are traditional taps for the bath and basin. Just about any kind of free-standing bath will suit the country bathroom. If wishing to have a shower a tiled walk-in shower is the advisable option with a curtain to conceal the area.

For the final touch add wicker baskets filled with pot pouri, wire basket shelves and stylish wall lamps.

Shabby Chic

“Shabby chic”, a relatively new phrase used to describe room designs, is an obscure blend of neglect and style. It is one of the most difficult bathroom designs to create, and it takes a bold decision to go for this bathroom style. It almost certainly achieves its full potential in a continental house, either a French chateau or old Spanish villa.

The absolute opposite of a fitted bathroom, the shabby chic look is a mismatch of styles and products. You can even do the unexpected, like put a put a refrigerator in the corner. Nothing is expected to match and pipework and plumbing are on show rather than concealed. This style is best suited to those who have inherited a bathroom and want to update it a little rather than fork out on a brand new bathroom suite.

The key to decoration is neutral tones with a few dark colors. For the walls choose a matte or flat wall paint. Pale golds and yellows work particularly well as does floral or check patterned wallpaper.

As with the country and traditional bathrooms, cast iron baths are a must. Either a roll-top or slipper bath will do, and although you don‘t want holes or rust, the more dilapidated it looks the better. Even consider running sandpaper over the paint work and claw feet. It’s always worth looking out for old fittings at antique shops and car boot sales.

Counter top basins are highly recommended in this setting, and the look out for extremely unusual decorated designs. Place it on a washstand or run-down vanity unit. Add unique ornaments and antique framed mirrors.

Modern

Modern bathrooms are all about what you do with the space you have. Within many bathrooms there is little room to work with, so making the most of the space is essential. This is why fitted bathroom suites are now so popular. Having bathroom furniture made to measure is one of the most practical design solutions when remodeling the bathroom.

How many of us have had a bathroom with a cluttered airing cupboard? With the modern bathroom there’s no need to cram your toiletries, towels and cleaning fluids around the boiler. With fitted vanity units, storage units and cabinets you‘ll have all the space you need.

When examining modern bathroom design, wall-hung furniture has to get a mention. White gloss will never go out of fashion, but more recently furniture finishes such as wenge, beech and maple have made a real emergence in popularity.

As well as the furniture, wall-hung sanitary ware is a great space-saving solution while giving the bathroom a contemporary feel. Also, concealed cistern units are a more eye-pleasing look than the standard close-coupled toilet.

Showerbaths are a great practical way of optimizing the space, so that you have the comfort of both bathing and showering. Walk-in showers are also very popular in the modern bathroom, and if buying a shower enclosure for the modern bathroom choose one with a chrome structure over white.

Chrome and stainless steel are the ultimate choice in the modern bathroom, and taps and bath mixers are available in a number of contemporary designs, rather than the traditional style faucets. Also, choose chrome towel rails over standard white radiators, as well as matching chrome accessories..

Don’t be afraid to decorate with bold colours when tiling or painting, getting the contrast right with the chrome and the gloss. If using curtains be subtle with the designs and colours, but preferably go for stylish roller blinds.

Fantasy

Daring to be anything more than conventional, the fantasy bathroom design lets you be truly innovative with your fantasies and tastes. With the emphasis on futuristic, this style of bathroom is the antithesis of the traditionalist.

The fantasy design is ideally exclusive to only larger bathrooms, as with all futuristic interior design large open spaces are what brings the room together. Steam cabins and whirpool baths are the ideal choice for showering and bathing. Or combine the two will a well designed bath screen and a glass shower panel. Because of their minimal effect, Walk-in showers also work well with modern tiling, chrome shower fixtures and classy shower lighting.

For the sanitary ware go with wall-hung or standard close-coupled toilet and basin with pedestal with acute angles and a contemporary design. Abstract towel rails and wenge wall-hung furniture fit well in the fantasy

Interior Design: Decorating the Interior of your House

It’s time once again to look at decorating your home? Are you excited about this possibility or are you frustrated? It’s the idea to decorate your home, or you want to move the town or make you anxious and excited? You’ll find surely mixed feelings with regards to decorating their homes. Not everybody is creative or intelligent. A single may well assume that they’re incapable of furnishing. Some folks just don’t have any of these projects. Then you will discover people who can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get the paint and plaster. You can find many help available for each individual, no matter what their feelings in relation to decorate your home.

If you hate the thought of decorating the interior of your home, an interior model professional can be the best merchandise for you. They will work with you to allow you to pick a decorative model including colors, flooring, furniture and accessories. It’s going to launch the plan, but will likely have to hire a painter or someone to install your floor. It’s a very good selection in case you can afford, but several men and women don’t have the money to buy a professional interior decorator, a painter and a flooring installer.

If you are an adventurous individual can decorate in your home is regarded as just one more exciting event. You don’t have issue finding details on decorating within your home. There are lots of magazines published each month which provides information and instructions to decorate inside your home. There are books, books do-it-yourself giving particular details, step by step to decorate inside your home. The internet is often a excellent resource for easy facts about the device. Hundreds of pages filled with intriguing details to assist you to plan your decorating and assist you to from your process. Television can be a excellent source of interior of the home. There are several fact TV programs that may educate you and give you ideas for your home decorating project.

When you decide to decorate within your home, make sure you first decide which piece or pieces you will change. Pick a theme will allow you to make decisions concerning color, furniture, fabrics and accessories. There are numerous themes to select from, for instance Victorian, Cottage, Modern, English, French Country, Traditional, Medieval, Moroccan, Art Deco, Southwestern, etc. When you decide on a theme, you can then select materials based around this interior design of the house.

Use the resources offered to decorate within your home, you need to be in a position to make a color palette that will improve your room, pick furniture fabric adds warmth, you consider comfortable selecting and accessories that complement and accent your space. Of the numerous resources available to you, numerous will offer ideas for decorating your home free, you should be able to decorate your home an interesting adventure with little or no stress and frustration.

Gold Roses Refillable Leather Journal with Embossed Roses Design, Ivory Sheets, Lined, 6×8″

Gold Roses Refillable Leather Journal with Embossed Roses Design, Ivory Sheets, Lined, 6×8″

• 256 Pages of Heavystock Ivory Lined Sheets
• Faux Leather.
• Embossed Roses.
• Measures 6×8″

This Writing Journal was made by hand with skills learned from centuries of experience. The Writing paper is acid free heavy stock ivory paper. it is not known how long ink will last on this paper because no sheet of it has ever been known to fade!!.

List Price: $ 80.00

Price:

Victorian Interior Design

Victorian architecture is a name given to a very broad spectrum of different architectural styles that occurred during the middle and late nineteenth century.  Like many other things during this time, they were named after the reigning queen, Queen Victoria, a custom developed by the British and French people of the time period.

The period of the Victorian era encompasses a total of eleven different architectural styles that occurred during this period, each with their own distinctive styles and design elements.  There were several different architectural styles that came to be during this time period that didn’t necessarily have elements that fit in this style, because they started during this same period they tend to be lumped into the same category.

The decorative style associated with this architectural style had many distinctive elements that represented it.  Just like different countries influenced the architecture, they also had a heavy influence on what the interior looked like.  The Middle East and China were two of the biggest influences of interior design.  They also helped to establish several of the sub cultures associated with this time period.

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Victorian homes were very orderly, yet still very elaborately decorated.  Homes were very clearly divided into rooms, each with their own purpose.  No room, no matter how seldom used, was left undecorated, as this was seen as a sign of poor taste. Color schemes varied depending upon the location of the home. Lighter colors tended to be avoided in town and city dwellings due to pollution. Another factor in color choice was often determined by the availability of pigments. In country areas, interior decorations were often carried out by traveling craftsmen who carried limited supplies. Paint had to be mixed on site with whatever locally available ingredients could be found. For example, the blue-green colorwash used on wooden paneled walls in country areas was derived from the earth pigment terra verde, mixed with egg whites and buttermilk.

Homes, like today, were considered reflections of the people who live in them.  Walls and ceilings were painted to represent their purpose, and it was not uncommon to find plaster walls with carved designs in them. Wallpaper was quite popular and in the early and mid-Victorian period elaborate scrolled floral patterns were favored and primary backgrounds of red, blue and green overprinted with shades of cream and tan were common. Furniture, on the other hand, was not very dominant or exclusive to the time; the main focus was on all of the other elements in the room.

ANTIQUE CHEST BOX – ANTIQUE SILVER CHEST BOX WITH FLORAL DESIGN

ANTIQUE CHEST BOX – ANTIQUE SILVER CHEST BOX WITH FLORAL DESIGN

• Crafted of fine silver plated material
• Lined in burgundy
• Makes a great birthday gift
• Different shapes and sizes available
• Measure approx: 4″ long x 2.5″ wide. 2.5″ high.

ANTIQUE SILVER CHEST BOX WITH FLORAL DESIGN

List Price: $ 43.99

Price:

Antique Lamps and Interior Design

In the UK in 2008 a Bristol pensioner chained himself to a lamppost and went on hunger strike.  His protest was against the removal of Victorian lampposts from the city’s streets; illustrating that those passionate about quality design and heritage will do just about anything to protect it.

However, apart from, perhaps, Bristol City Council, there are people out there who appreciate the timeless quality and design of domestic scale antique and vintage lamps.  A visit to some antique shops, or specialist internet sites will show that antique lamps are available and still hugely popular as a design choice for many.  No need, thankfully, to go on hunger strike
to protect these examples of our heritage as the demand for them is continually
high.

 

Occasional Lighting and Permanent Comfort

Antique or vintage lamps are ideal for traditional / classic design schemes but can work equally well in even the most modern of interiors. An old, and stunningly effective, design trick is to place one or two display ‘antiques’ in sleek, stylish, modern rooms.This juxtaposition of old and new can be used in a number of ways.

It can create a high impact visual statement,add a quirky edge to a simple design or create intricate detail in an otherwise clean, clear design.  An antique lamp can be the perfect tool to create these effects, adding not only a bold statement but incorporating a functional element.No home should be without ‘occasional’ lighting and lamps provide a simple and flexible solution.

Wired for Light

In traditional / classic, or period interiors, vintage or antique lamps are an absolute
must!  Whether for a residential setting or a hotel, bar or restaurant the lamp will add a touch of luxury and authenticity.  You don’t have to go the whole way and use traditional paraffin or oil lamps – though apart from some fire regulations in commercial properties there’s nothing to stop you!  These days the majority of antique lamps are adapted for electrical use which reduces the risk as well as the smell.

For those using antique lamps in a period home, one important thing to check is the quality of the workmanship and design of the ‘converted’ lamp.  The majority of antique lamp bases will need some renovation, due to their
age.  Finding a supplier that can not only expertly and subtly wire the base but provide new shades where necessary is important.

Changing Times

While antique lamps suit just about any scheme, you may be looking to compliment a particular design period.  Vintage lamps from the 20th century can come in just about any design style you can imagine. From the ornate ‘fin-de-siecle’ style of the late Victorian and early Edwardian era, to the now retro-chic of the fifties, sixties and seventies;
just about any style of lamp can be sourced to add the finishing touch to your home.   Other popular styles include Tiffany lamps and these, like other vintage or antique lamps offer not only a decorative statement, but also are a great investment.

Design choices will always be very personal, but in many cases vintage or antique lamps are a good choice as they have this added feature – that they are likely to remain valuable and will most likely increase in value.  Many items of furniture can depreciate in value thanks to inevitable wear and tear. 
Design classics and antiques however should retain their value and hopefully grow.  The cost of such items can vary, but there is usually an affordable solution to suit any pocket
allowing you to create that perfect look for you.

 

 

Sourcing Antique Lamps

As with nearly everything, antique lamps can now be sourced on the internet, as well as direct from some antique shops and specialist stores. Specialists, whether online or not, are usually the best place to start your search.  Not only will they be knowledgeable – often passionate – about their products, but can offer advice on the types and styles of lamps.  A
specialist supplier is also best placed to find unusual or rare items – having a network of contacts that can help you source specific items or styles.  This can be invaluable to you if you have a specific style or theme that you are creating, as some designs are much rarer
than others.  With a good supplier you can find the right antique lamp, make a great investment and preserve a part of our heritage.

An antique lamp creates a comfortable homely lighting effect and can work well in
just about any setting.  Ideal for period properties including homes, hotels, bars and restaurants, they can work equally well as statement pieces in modern homes and offices.

Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style. Part II: Traditional – Jacobean and Victorian

Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends – both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, “Designing in Style,” I explore the meaning of style for interior designers.

I draw on my experience working alongside many of London’s best-known interior design teams. This second article in my series introduces traditional/period design, with a focus on the Jacobean and Victorian styles.

Traditional design uses materials that reflect the wealth and opulence of historic times. London Interior Designers will often take the best of the features that were available back then and skilfully combine them with elements that are available today. Traditional/period interior design projects tend to focus on elegance, with a look and feel that is comfortable, rich and sumptuous, although sometimes also a little fragile.

The Jacobean theme is popular in London mansions and other residences that have a real sense of history. The Jacobean style focuses on heavy wooden features, with dark-stained oak often used to create panels for walls and floorboards. Oak is also often used for the furniture, and the overall interior design feel is that of robustness, with pleasantly-proportioned pieces to fill the available space. Tapestries are also an important part of the Jacobean look. However, many interior designers recognise that tapestries can be impractical nowadays, and one approach often used by London’s best-known consultancies is to recreate the tapestry appearance on modern upholstered furniture or curtains.

One caveat with Jacobean interior designs is that the style does need plenty of natural light, because otherwise the darker wood stains can seem uninspired. This can be problematic in smaller London residences, but is generally not an issue with more luxurious mansions that often feature huge south-facing windows and substantial grounds.

The Victorian interior design style, by contrast, is considered a more staid approach. Interior designers often focus on small rounded tables, often covered entirely in cloth, and fat, heavily-buttoned chesterfield settees. So much of London became urbanised in Victorian times that the style also came to include nature as a theme for textiles, serving as a counterpoint to accelerating industrialisation. Consequently, Victorian interior design schemes often feature floral elements and birds on both walls and furnishings.

In the next article in my “Designing in Style” interior design series, I will focus on a third and final period style that is particularly important for London residences – the Georgian style.

News And Views From A London Interior Design Company – Victorian Revivals

The Victorian era covers the period 1837-1901. During this time, Queen Victoria ruled England from her throne in London’s celebrated Buckingham Palace. She was not known as an interior designer herself, but during her reign there was a revival of all sorts of design ideas from the past. Interior design companies of the time brought together an impressive collection of styles to create what came to be known as the Victorian aesthetic. These interior design companies borrowed ideas from Goth, Rococo, Baroque, and Neoclassic contexts. The Victorian style was the first to really bring the work of interior design companies into the mainstream. No longer just the domain of wealthy Londoners, the reach of the profession began to stretch throughout the empire – allowing even people with more modest incomes to get the elaborate interior decorations that they really craved.

It was the Victorian era that ushered in the age of mirrors and beautifully ornamented mahogany, oakwood and metal furniture. Many of London’s best interior design companies during that time were asked to focus on design that was sturdy in appearance but high in comfort. Brass lamps were very fashionable, and homeowners craved the latest in etched glass window blinds. Dark colors were everywhere, and interior design companies would often respond to requests for rich royal reds and heavy greens.

London’s most famous interior design companies in the Victorian era tended to focus on living rooms and front parlours. These needed to be very formal, with opulent fabric-ensconced sofas (see my article on the Chesterfield for more) and chaise longues with ridgebacked recliners. Luxurious velvets, silks and tapestry-style textiles featured intricate beadwork and knotted cords with tufted heads.

Victorian interior design companies often fielded requests for pretty and frilly lace curtains to serve as windowblinds. The Victorians prized modesty and, especially in London, it was necessary to cover windows completely to make sure that people on the streets outside could never look in.

Formal dining rooms in the Victorian era featured oversized dining tables and upright chairs. Interior design companies of those decades would often receive requests from clients who had huge collections of artwork, books or ornaments. Upper-class London gentlemen would crave fabulous display shelving in rich mahogany to show off their treasured possessions. Bedrooms would be replete with dense, ornamented beds in subdued varnished wood, together with weighty chests of drawers. For London ladies, powder rooms and cloakrooms were essential as the Victorians loved to spend time beautifying their appearances.

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