Victorian carpet became more affordable by the end of the 19th century thanks to technical advances. There was a lot of choice depending on the budget available. Most families could afford a machine-made rug for their parlour. See my other blogs on linoleum and Victorian interior style tips mentioning rag rugs to get an insight... Continue Reading →
White painted woodwork: The Victorian holy grail
You probably think of dark painted doors and skirtings when you picture a Victorian interior. However, white painted woodwork became a style statement in the late 19th and early 20th century. Many Victorians painted their bedrooms' woodwork white to complement their lighter decor. White also didn't harbour dirt like darker colours, which was important in... Continue Reading →
Victorian exterior paint – six top tips
Victorian exterior paint styles and colours were very different to today's plethora of white and grey UPVC. Many people also assume that the Victorians only painted their windows and fronts doors in dark colours - including black. This was not the case! Here of my six top tips which dispel the 19th century exterior paint... Continue Reading →
Dating antiques – a how to guide
Have you ever tried dating antiques in your collection or in a junk shop? It can be hard to work out what era an antique or vintage item was made, particularly when there are many fakes and reproduction in the mix! I’ve been into antiques now for 20 years. I’ve made many mistakes and have... Continue Reading →
Linoleum – the Victorian wonder product!
Linoleum was the wonder invention of the Victorian period and led the way for the vinyl flooring we know today. Unlike vinyl flooring today, homeowners up until the 1960s didn't just use linoleum in kitchens and bathrooms. The middle and working classes also fitted the product in bedrooms as it had antibacterial qualities. This was... Continue Reading →
Top ten Victorian house interiors to visit
Here's my top ten Victorian house interiors to visit! One of my favourite pastimes is to visit museums and stately homes and I’m an avid National Trust member. Many of the places I’ve visited have been truly inspiring and have given me a real insight into the Victorian and Edwardian home. This ranges from a... Continue Reading →
Period house restoration – four ways to do it
Have you ever regretted a room makeover as soon as you've put the paint tins away as I have during my period house restoration? Yes, we’ve all been there. Sometimes the colour just isn’t what you imagined or it doesn’t suit your room. Over time we also want a change or a different look. I’m... Continue Reading →