PERIOD PROPERTIES, STYLES & DESIGNS IN THE UK

The evolution of architecture over the decades has witnessed the birth of Art Deco, Modernism, High-tech, Deconstructivism and Blobitecture architecture styles, however, property architecture in prominent and affluent cities remains Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian in style. These property styles were built prior to WW1 and boast classical and elegant features that are desired by most home buyers. Each property represents a different period in architecture, a period in society with different inspirations and affluency. Discover these styles and appreciate the beauty within their differences in our blog.

Georgian Properties

The Georgian period covers the reign of George I to George IV from 1714 – 1830. One of the finest architectural builds within this era was 10 Downing Street in London. Architectural designs within this period boasted large windows to heighten natural light and spacious rooms which prioritised comfort. This significantly contrasts to the small and dark architectural styles that were built prior to the Georgian era. Within the Georgian time period, the first and second storeys were occupied by the owner and their families whilst staff lived in the upper storeys. This explains why the upper storeys were typically small and dark, with less impressive windows and lower ceiling heights.

Georgian properties are most recognised for the following defining features-

• Symmetrical flat exteriors and balanced interior layouts
• Flat or shallow roofs which are often hidden behind a parapet
• Townhouses were built over three or four storeys
• Elongated and rectangular sash windows
• Stucco-faced ground floor exterior with a fan window frequently positioned above the main entrance
• Built around garden squares, as individual houses did not have their own garden

Victorian Properties

1837 – 1901 marked the reign of Queen Victorian, an era which witnessed the industrial revolution and significant societal changes, including the spread of wealth, which in turn impacted the construction and architectural design of houses. The industrial revolution meant that houses were more accessible and affordable to the middle class which meant the demand for housing skyrocketed. The Victorian property style was influenced by the renaissance and Gothic revival movement but still retained some of the classical features from Georgian style properties, for example they enjoy similar columns and proportioning.

Some of the most defining Victorian property features include –

• High ceilings and large bay windows
• Stained glass windows
• Multi-coloured brickwork
• Brickwork porches
• Ornate stonework
• Geometric tiled hallways
• Wooden floors with fireplaces in every room
• Patterned wallpaper, usually floral
• Lavish, elaborate and detailed interiors which emulate the wealth of the homeowners

Edwardian Properties

The Edwardian period was relatively short, lasting from only 1901 to 1918. Beyond the reign of King Edward VII, the Edwardian era of architecture was influenced by the Baroque and Arts and Crafts movements. This period seen a significant rise in the general population and the completion of several new railway lines, which seen the rise of the ‘suburbs’. Edwardian homes boast porches and verandas from the exterior while the interior is bright and light, with bespoke fireplaces, staircases and elaborate tilework.

Defining Edwardian features include the following-

• Houses built in straight lines
• Mock-Tudor cladding and timbers, typically towards the top of the house
• Red brickwork
• Ornate tilework
• Deep bay windows
• Wide hallways
• Porches with wooden frames

Although there are significant defining features for each property style, Wm Boyle offers a range of lightweight Orac products that can emulate and restore the architectural style of your home, or help renovate the interior to give the property more character and flair.

From traditional and simple coving styles, ornate ceiling roses, wall panelling and skirting boards, to fireplaces and stoves, Wm Boyle can help. Whether you want to add warmth to your interior with a gas fireplace or add a dado rail to complement your existing coving, we have it all. Plus, if you have a design in mind or want to know more about our products, give us a call on 0141 429 1218 or pop into our Glasgow showroom where we’d be happy to offer our expertise.