Victorian Style Bathrooms
Victorian style bathrooms were originated during the Victorian era, from 1837 to 1901. Since then, many designers have created bathrooms based on the Victorian design and style. By implementing the original Victorian design with modern amenities, one can re-create a Victorian bathroom that meets the needs of today's homeowner.
Function
Victorian style bathrooms have been re-created or remodeled to embody a look reminiscent of the era in which wealthy homeowners designed the room around a sense of class using rich woods and cast iron accents. In Victorian style bathrooms, one can wash, bathe and use the toilet in a setting much like that of the late 1800s. For those who live in a Victorian home, remodeling the bathroom to the exact design can take months of renovation by refinishing existing wood structures and locating bathtubs, sinks, hardware, flooring and mirrors reminiscent of the era.
Features
Most Victorian style bathrooms feature Victorian inspired colors on the walls, such as burgundy, deep purples and blues, while some may choose replicated wallpaper from the era, such as large floral prints highlighted with gold or silver tone stripes. Tin ceilings, which were also popular during the era, can be used in a bathroom matching most colors in the decor. Claw-foot tubs were essential to Victorians, and these tubs can be refurbished or bought with modern amenities, including a detachable, handheld showerhead. Sinks were lined in mahogany cabinetry establishing the rich style. Floors were either finished in hardwood or featured imported marble floors.
Identification
Identifying a Victorian style bathroom involves looking for features in the bathroom and decor that was also important in the era, such as vases filled with English roses, romance books and sconces with lit candles on the walls. Victorians often collected prints of animals of the era, such as horses and dogs. Photographs of important Victorian women including Queen Victoria or the woman of the household often adorned bathrooms and added a touch of femininity. Perfume bottles, body dusters and hairbrushes with silver handles may accent a vanity.
Size
Victorian homes were designed with high ceilings often up to 14 feet tall; this allowed for tall windows and the ability to decorate with heavy velvet and silk curtains. Bathrooms needed to be big enough to fit a large claw-foot tub or marble built-in tub. A small vanity and dressing area was also tucked away in the corners of most Victorian bathrooms. Sinks remained small in the era as most Victorian women utilized the vanity and its mirror as a way of getting ready after taking a bath.
Considerations
Consider the cost involved in renovating a Victorian bathroom. This type of bathroom can cost substantially more than a traditional style bathroom because of the fact that the tub, flooring, vanity and plumbing are renovated to function technology. Searching for functional Victorian bathroom items can be time-consuming as many are available through special order only. Rejuvenation.com offers a large selection of replicated items that would fit well into a Victorian style bathroom.
Tags: style bathroom, Victorian bathroom, Victorian style, Victorian style bathrooms, with modern, modern amenities, most Victorian