Victorian Bedrooms for Today's Homes
Learn how to incorporate Victorian-era staples, from wardrobes to washstands, into your modern lifestyle
Since the Victorian era, what we need in the bedroom has changed very little. We need essentially the same pieces — bed, bedside tables, clothes storage. And we like essentially the same aesthetic — comfortable, peaceful, even luxurious. Indeed, we may still find the fabrics and wallpapers of that period attractive. Victorian staples such as freestanding wardrobes, marble-topped washstands and folding screens can be reinvented for modern bedrooms while still retaining the Victorian feel. Keep reading to learn how to turn a Victorian bedroom into a personal space you'll love spending time in.
Besides the bed, the wardrobe would undoubtedly be the largest piece of furniture in a Victorian bedroom. The most popular versions had a mirror in the center cupboard and double-width storage on either side. Traditionally, wardrobes were made of dark varnished wood — a rather large and somber feature for today's tastes. But, you can often pick one up cheaply and achieve great effects by stripping and painting it.
Although not always a four-poster (even though they were popular), Victorian beds often had draperies made from light fabric, with matching curtains on the windows.
Matching draperies and window dressing adorn this French-inspired room, without the four-poster bed. Note the screen in the corner — these were hugely popular in Victorian bedrooms.
Traditionally used to hide unsightly items (or maybe for the lady to dress behind), the screen today serves as a wonderful way to change the contours of the room. I love the inventive way a screen has been used here. It's a hugely flexible item, too; if bought cheaply in poor condition, it can be creatively re-covered in wallpaper or fabric.
The brass bed often appeared in Victorian bedrooms. If you like the design but the finish feels a little too traditional, then get out your paintbrush. White makes for a soft and romantic aesthetic, or go for a bold and contrasting color choice to get a more eclectic look.
Bedside tables were seldom matching, as this was not the era of uniform bedroom sets. Try using one plain table, covered with a tablecloth or lace, and an antique table or old military chest for the other side.
Traditional Victorian bedrooms also had a washstand — a free-standing piece of furniture with a marble top, a bowl and a water pitcher. Put a washstand to good use in your en suite. They can even be converted to hold modern plumbing.
Fixtures and fittings in a Victorian bedroom would have been much the same as in the rest of the house, including architectural moldings and a fireplace, of course. Many houses have had fireplaces taken out or blocked off, but the recesses make for great storage, and the mantel is ideal for a mirror.
While open fires can be messy in a bedroom, consider a gas alternative for a convenient and clean flame. Pure indulgence and, in true Victorian style, the perfect spot for an armchair.
While open fires can be messy in a bedroom, consider a gas alternative for a convenient and clean flame. Pure indulgence and, in true Victorian style, the perfect spot for an armchair.
Finally, don't be a slave to your Victorian bedroom. You can keep all the traditional features and throw in some glamour and contemporary pieces for a gorgeous eclectic look. I'm sure Jane Eyre would approve.
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