Victorian Interior Design: 7 Hallmarks of the Traditional Style

Victorian style is maximalism at its finest. Opulent wall coverings, jewel-toned hues, and antique elements with intricate details create an elegantly layered aesthetic that leaves no space without a flourish.

Over the years, we’ve seen designers and novice home decorators alike swapping neutrals for saturated colors, patinaed furnishings, and a kaleidoscope of textures. Whether you call it grandmillennial, old money, or simply maximalism with a vintage nod, design inspired by past eras is decidedly here to stay. Along with a newfound love of detail and unique, personalized spaces comes a fresh appreciation for Victorian interior design.

To share what sets Victorian interiors apart, Jessica Lev of Jessica Lev Antiques shares the hallmarks of this opulent style, plus how you can incorporate Victorian design elements into your own home.

1. More Is More

Victorian style is a steep departure from more minimalistic approaches to design that previously had us purging our homes and painting every surface a crisp shade of white, beige, or greige. Now, a reemerging inclination toward Victorian style encourages variety, texture, and interest at every turn. “Wallpaper, rich florals, and trims are all hallmarks of Victorian design,” shares Lev. “The more details and layers, the better!”

2. Opulence Reigns

Above all, it’s important to remember that Victorian design is an opulent aesthetic. “Victorian design is all about rich colors and patterns,” says Lev. “A stark contrast from the white walls and freshly painted furniture of years past, Victorian design is jewel-tone wallpapers, painted trims, and rich mahogany antiques.”

The real trick to creating a feeling of opulence and grandeur is through the details. Lev points to gilt-embossed leather-topped desks, velvet sofas with bullion fringe, and intricate trim on drapes as a few ways Victorian style can help bring a space to life. Think about fabrics, patterns, and textures that can build a rich, opulent effect.

3. Jewel Tones Make a Splash

A Victorian palette, just like myriad other decor elements intrinsic to this style, doesn’t shy away from making a splash. Lev says that moody jewel tones are the ticket when it comes to paint colors. With these high-impact colors, the antique dealer and designer says to start small. Spaces like a powder bath or small study are ideal for adding a bold color splash in true Victorian style.

4. Wallpaper Brings Pattern and Interest

While wallpaper has been having a moment for the better part of a decade (though some say it never went out of fashion), Victorian-inspired design is seeing its resurgence in a more prominent way. “Previously saved for a powder bathroom, we have been seeing designers and homeowners use wallpaper across their homes, even in adjoining rooms,” says Lev. When it comes to patterns, she says florals and grasscloths are the ticket, highlighting the color, texture, and pattern intrinsic to Victorian design.

5. Antiques Lend Depth

One of the best ways to impart Victorian style is to scour your favorite antique dealers for items that harken to this opulent era. The trick is to find pieces that have a weight and impact that will translate to your space—instead of getting lost in it. “An antique chest or rich leather antique books go a long way in bringing personality, depth, and patina to any home,” Lev says.

6. Vintage Prints Are a Must

Whether you wallpaper, paint, or prefer the contrast of a more minimal canvas, walls aren't simply a one-coat-and-done job if you’re looking to impart true Victorian style. Additional elements are needed to truly make an impact. “Antique prints, like maps and botanicals, especially with colored mats and interesting frames, can bring character even to white walls,” says Lev. Commit to the hunt for these treasures, seeking out your favorite vintage and antique shops.

7. Transitional Elements Work, Too

As with any style, there are other eras and aesthetics that can work with Victorian design elements in a natural way thanks to overlapping influences and characteristics. One of the easiest styles to utilize if you’re looking to add a dose of Victorian influence to your home in a more subtle way is to seek out a more transitional design, Lev suggests. “You may not be ready to commit to a full Victorian style, but can bring in brown furniture, wallpapers, patterned drapes, or botanicals without overly committing to the aesthetic,” she explains.