Creating this style in your home means understanding some of the basic principles of Victorian decorating. It was a time of increasing affluence and homeowners wanted to indulge in their need to display their wealth, however moderate it might have been.

The Victorian period, defined by the years of life of Queen Victoria (1819 to 1901) appeals to those with a sense of elegance and formality. Hard wood floors were prevalent in Victorian times, adorned with ornate area rugs. Kitchens Creating a Victorian look in a kitchen can. Washstands, armoires and dressing tables rounded out the furnishings. Four poster beds with canopies and dark, heavy wood furniture figured prominently. Window coverings should also be floral print fabrics with lace under panels.

For painted rooms, add a floral painted border around windows and doorways.

Focus on the living room, kitchen and bedroom to achieve this look. To corinna the theme to an extreme, follow the Victorian practice of matching linens, drapes and wallpaper in the same pattern. Bold fabrics, floral or ornate patterns in wallpaper and lots of bric a brac gave the Victorian home an opulent feel.

Bedrooms If you prefer the look of wall paper, stick to small floral patterns.