Victorian style architecture became popular in the late 19th century during the Industrial Revolution, when opulence was a sign of the times and homeowners spared no details in creating large, fanciful homes. The vision of a Victorian home is quintessential Americana, as they were built throughout the country in small towns, big cities, and on rural farmsteads. No matter where you are building your home today, your Victorian residence will add whimsy and charm to the neighborhood. There are many variations of Victorian style, but several architectural elements set the style apart. A Victorian house is almost always two stories or more, often with turrets and attic dormers creating cozy spaces on the third floor. A wide front porch, often wrapping around at least two sides, is ornamented with spindlework and gingerbread detailing. A variety of paint colors highlight the various architectural elements. The roof is steeply pitched and may feature multiple gables or a single front gable with decorative trim or a sunburst motif. "Victorian vernacular" homes may be one story and feature just a few of the high style architectural elements. Today’s Victorian floor plans may be open, but will still feature cozy nooks for those that like to sneak away. Within this Victorian category you will find Queen Anne house plans. Queen Anne style is one of last Victorian era styles, showing the most opulent developments. Queen Anne is all about exuberant rounded bays, wrapping porches, so-called "candlesnuffer towers", and ornamental siding treatments including fish scale shingling. Related categories: 2 Story House Plans and House Plans with Wraparound Porch
