Melbourne window designs… the history of the Victorian era window architecture

Victorian architecture is one of the most prominent styles of homes in Melbourne.

The Victorian style architecture era succeeded the Georgian style acrchitecture era durign Queen Victoria’s reign in the UK from 1837 to 1901. This period was one of significant change in Australia, particularly in the Victoria.

Georgian windows were typically symmetrical and featured large, multi-paned sash windows. In contrast, the Victorian era introduced a variety of window styles. Gothic-inspired windows with pointed arches and tracery became popular, as did bay windows that projected outwards, arched windows of various forms, and stained-glass windows for decorative purposes.

Additionally, advancements in glass manufacturing led to the availability of larger plate glass windows and casement windows that opened outward. These changes in window styles brought diversity, character, and enhanced functionality to Victorian architecture.

Whilst Victorian architecture encompasses a wide range of styles, and the specific characteristics of Victorian windows can vary depending on the sub-style or period within the Victoria era, there are general features that can help to recognise and identify Victorian windows:

Sash windows were a symbolic style of the Victorian era with frames and sashes typically made from wood. The frames often had a thicker profile compared to the slimmer frames of Georgian windows. The use of decorative mouldings or profiles on the window frames was also common.

Victorian windows are typically characterised by their ‘two over two panel’ grid design that features on both the top and bottom panes, significantly less than the ‘six over six’ panel typical of the Georgian style that reigned before them. Glass panes are connected by horizontal or vertical wooden bars which are often slimmer than their surrounding frame to optimise the amount of light allowed to flood into a room or building.

Victorian sash windows

Victorian living was focused on elaborate designs and intricate details, and Victorian sash windows were a great way for people to flaunt their wealth. It wasn’t uncommon for windows to have four, eight, 12 or 16 panes. However, Victorian sashes were typically designed with a two over two panel grid design on both top and bottom panes. The number of sash windows and their size was an indication of the wealth held by the homeowner, Even today, they remain one of the main window designs guaranteed to add to your home’s value.

While the Georgian era also used multi-paned windows, Victorian windows often had larger panes of glass compared to the smaller individual panes of Georgian windows. As we mentioned earlier, Victorian windows commonly feature larger panes of glass divided by glazing bars – astragal bars – into smaller sections.

Victorian window shutters

Victorian windows were often adorned with elaborate curtains, drapes, or lace coverings, which added to the overall aesthetic and provided privacy. Like the present day, interior window shutters are a popular window treatment for Victorian style windows. They serve as both a practical and decorative element in Victorian homes offering light control, privacy, and insulation.

Slimmer slats (louvres) can help create a more traditional look and wooden shutters can either be divided into separate panels or have a solid design depending on the look you want to create. A wide variety of paints and stains will ensure shutters complement the interior décor of a room too.

Adjustable louvres allow residents to regulate the amount of natural light and airflow entering a room while maintaining privacy. By adjusting the position of the louvres, occupants could also control the direction of light and the view outside.

During Victorian times, interior shutters were considered a decorative window dressing. They added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the interiors, complementing the overall Victorian aesthetic. The shutters could be adorned with intricate woodwork or decorative elements, enhancing the visual appeal of the windows and the room as a whole.

Victorian bay window shutters

Interior shutters can be crafted in a wide range of styles, shapes, sizes, and configurations, making them a much loved, energy efficient window dressing solution.

Victorian bay windows can be notoriously hard to dress due to their large expanse and awkward shape. However, bespoke made shutters can be made for any size or shaped window and would contribute to reducing heat loss in the summer by providing an extra barrier.

Likewise, during the summer months, shutters work well at keeping cool air trapped in a room and keeping warm air out.