Have you ever wondered what era your home was built in? If so, you're not alone. Many homeowners are curious about the architectural style of their property and want to know if it is Edwardian, Victorian or Georgian. In this post, we'll explore how you can identify the period of your home and understand its history. We'll look at some key features to look out for and discuss the differences between each era. By the end of this post, you'll be able to confidently classify your home's period.
In modern times, some property owners and estate agents refer to these different era’s as ‘classical’ homes. Although this is true to a degree, there are many differences between these structures that are not to go unnoticed. The intricacies and details used during these periods of construction contribute towards the different wants and needs for homeowners to this date, all the while contributing towards the possibilities when renovating. The economy, wars and how society was shaped at the time all had a knock on effect on how buildings were constructed, through inspiration or necessity.
Georgian - 1714 to 1837
Georgian properties are known for their distinctive architectural style, which is characterised by its symmetrical design both internally and externally. These buildings often have three or four storeys and feature a number of decorative features, such as cornices, pediments, and quoins. Georgian architecture was popular in the 18th century in Britain and is still admired today for its timeless beauty. Number 10 Downing Street is arguably the most well known home from this time.
During this period, it was common for the top level of a building to be used as servants' quarters. This was due to the fact that these areas typically had smaller windows and lower ceilings than other levels of a house. This meant that there was less light and air circulating in these rooms, making them less desirable for the main occupants of a home. Despite this, servants would often live in these cramped quarters due to their lack of other options.
Fireplaces will often the focal point of a room and can be found on both sides of the house. Double chimneys are a common feature in many of these homes, as they provide additional warmth and a cozy atmosphere and they also provide an efficient way to heat up the property.
A dead giveaway that a property from this era is bricked up windows. Why? You may ask. This is due to the window tax that was was enforced between 1696 and 1851. The idea was that the greater the wealth of a homeowner, the more windows the property would have. This resulted in many windows being filled with bricks and mortar.
Victorian - 1837 to 1901
Victorian properties are a staple of British architecture. These iconic buildings typically feature red brick exteriors and slate roofs. Bay window housings with sash windows coupled with stained glass windows are some of the other sought after features in these properties, creating a timeless look that is both elegant and inviting. Victorian properties are often large in size, making them an impressive sight to behold. These grand homes were built to last and have stood the test of time, with many still standing today as testament to their quality construction. With their classic design elements, these properties make for an attractive addition to any neighbourhood or street corner.
The Victorian era saw a shift in the style of homes, from complex designs with porches and bay windows to simpler, more functional designs. This change was due to a combination of factors such as the industrial revolution and the rise of new materials such as glass and iron. The use of new materials allowed for easier construction and design that could be adapted more quickly to changing trends. This shift towards simpler designs is evident in many Victorian-era homes today, with their clean lines and minimalistic features.
During this era, more affordable housing often took the form of two-up two-down houses with a fireplace in each room. These homes were usually located close to factories, as they were built to provide workers with easy access to their jobs. The lack of space and lack of modern amenities made them difficult places to live, but they were all that many people could afford at the time. The majority of these homes were terraced houses with no external space at the rear of the property.
Edwardian - 1901 to 1910
The expansion of the railways in the Edwardian era had a significant impact on the way homes were built. As people moved out of cities, they began to build homes in suburban areas close to railway stations, allowing them to commute easily and quickly. With this newfound freedom, Edwardian homes became increasingly popular in suburban areas, with many features being designed specifically for these locations.
Pitched roofs at steeper angles allowed more space inside the property in the form of attic spaces, renovated into extra rooms, or used for storage. The facades often incorporated partly exposed timber frame, which can still be seen today, often painted black in certain suburban areas of the UK. The detail work on these homes shows the boom of arts & crafts in this era, heavily influenced by artists and architects such as Phillip Web and William Morris pushed back against the mass production in interior and exterior decor that was churned out heavily in the Victorian era, and moved towards handmade high quality craft.
The Edwardian era saw a shift in the design of homes, with more space allocated to front and rear gardens. This allowed for more privacy and a greater degree of separation between the house and the street. It also enabled homeowners to create gardens that complemented their home, adding beauty and character to the neighbourhood. With more space available for each property, Edwardian homes were able to enjoy larger gardens than those of previous eras. The space in rooms also leaned towards more width in rooms rather than high ceilings.
Comments