Victorian House style – 1830s to 1901

Victorian Style Homes

The Victorian house design has become a common style both here in America as well as in England. It was also an influence during the extended period and incorporated various styles from revival. Victorian architectural styles can be found across the U.S. from various architectural styles, especially in Chicago. This includes Second Empire Style, Stick, Eastlake, Folk, Victorian Queen Anne, Richardson, Romanesque, and Shingle. In England, early Victorian homes show hints of the preceding Regency time although in the 1860s Italianate styles had risen.

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The history of Victorian homes in Chicago is intertwined with the city's growth and development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city experienced a period of rapid rebuilding and expansion, resulting in a proliferation of Victorian-style architecture. Here's an overview of the history of Victorian homes in Chicago:

  • Post-Fire Rebuilding: The Great Chicago Fire destroyed much of the city's existing structures. As the city rebuilt, Victorian architectural styles gained popularity. Initially, many buildings were constructed in the Italianate style, characterized by low-pitched roofs, ornate cornices, and tall windows.
  • Emergence of Victorian Styles: During the late 19th century, various Victorian architectural styles gained prominence in Chicago. These included the Queen Anne style, characterized by asymmetrical designs, decorative woodwork, and elaborate detailing. Other styles such as Second Empire, Gothic Revival, and Stick-Eastlake also found favor among Chicagoans.
  • Architectural Innovation: As the Victorian era progressed, architects in Chicago began to experiment with new techniques and designs. The use of cast iron, ornamental terra cotta, and decorative brickwork became popular. Prominent architects, such as Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright, also made significant contributions to Victorian-era architecture in the city.
  • Mansion Districts: Wealthy residents in Chicago sought to display their affluence through grand Victorian mansions. Areas like Prairie Avenue and the Gold Coast became known for their opulent homes, showcasing various Victorian styles. These mansions often featured ornate facades, intricate woodwork, and elaborate interiors.
  • Worker Housing: Victorian homes were not limited to the wealthy. Chicago's expanding population also required housing for the working class. Workers' cottages, characterized by simpler and more modest Victorian designs, sprouted in neighborhoods such as Bridgeport and Logan Square.
  • The World's Columbian Exposition: In 1893, Chicago hosted the World's Columbian Exposition, a world's fair that showcased architectural and technological marvels. The fair's "White City" featured buildings in the Beaux-Arts style, a neoclassical variation of Victorian architecture, which left a lasting impact on the city's architectural landscape.
  • Preservation and Restoration: In the 20th century, as architectural tastes evolved, many Victorian homes fell into disrepair or were demolished. However, in later years, there was a growing appreciation for the historical significance and charm of these homes. Preservation efforts began, leading to the restoration and rehabilitation of many Victorian houses, particularly in neighborhoods like Old Town and Wicker Park.

Victorian Homes For Sale Chicago

Today, Victorian homes in Chicago serve as reminders of the city's architectural heritage and offer a glimpse into the past. From grand mansions to worker cottages, these homes contribute to the diverse architectural fabric of the city and continue to captivate residents and visitors alike.

1860-1880s: Eastlake Victorian

These fanciful Victorian homes feature an eastlake spindlework and a soaring staircase. Despite being modeled after Queen Anne's house this beautiful Victorian house features lacquering ornaments and named Eastlake. The ornamental design is named after the famous English architect Charles Eastlake, a famous manufacturer of furniture with elegant spindles. Details about Eastlake are found in several Victorian homes. The more fanciful Victorian Stick Style features Eastlake buttons, knobs and angular sticks.

The Victorian architectural style was prevalent during the reign of Queen Victoria of England (1837-1901). It encompasses a range of sub-styles, including Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Second Empire. Here are some 8 most famous Victorian-style homes:

  1. The Painted Ladies (San Francisco, USA): The row of colorful Victorian houses known as the Painted Ladies is an iconic sight in San Francisco. These ornate, multi-colored homes with intricate detailing are a popular tourist attraction.
  2. Osborne House (Isle of Wight, England): Osborne House was Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's private residence. It showcases a combination of Italianate and Queen Anne styles, with expansive gardens and beautiful sea views.
  3. Biltmore estate Asheville North CarolinaBiltmore Estate (Asheville, USA): Located in North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate is a grand mansion built in the Châteauesque style, a mix of Victorian and French Renaissance architecture. It is the largest privately owned house in the United States.
  4. St. Pancras Station (London, England): St. Pancras Station is an impressive example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Known for its intricate detailing, soaring arches, and iconic clock tower, it is one of London's most recognizable landmarks.
  5. Chatsworth House (Derbyshire, England): Chatsworth House is a stately home with a rich history that spans several centuries. Its architecture combines elements of both Elizabethan and Victorian styles, making it a notable example of the Victorian era.
  6. The Breakers (Newport, USA): The Breakers is a Gilded Age mansion in Newport, Rhode Island. Designed in the Italian Renaissance style, it exemplifies the opulence and grandeur of Victorian architecture.
  7. Tyntesfield (Bristol, England): Tyntesfield is a Victorian Gothic Revival mansion known for its intricate stonework, turrets, and stained glass windows. The house and its extensive gardens are now owned by the National Trust.
  8. Queen Victoria Building (Sydney, Australia): The Queen Victoria Building is a grand shopping center in Sydney that showcases Victorian Romanesque Revival architecture. It features a stunning central dome, ornate façades, and elaborate interiors.

These 8 famous Victorian-style homes reflect the diverse architectural influences and grandeur of the Victorian era. Each one has its own unique characteristics and contributes to the rich heritage of Victorian architecture.

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Search all Chicago Victorian Style Homes

Victorian Style Home Search Chicago September 21, 2023
114
Listed
72
Avg. DOM
$214.42
Avg. $ / Sq.Ft.
$500,000
Med. List Price
114 Properties
Page 1 of 10
5
Beds
2
Baths
3,000
Sq.Ft.
1
Day on Site
11863434
MLS
An exceptional property for the vintage enthusiast has now come to market, set on a lovely tree-lined street in Chicago, oozing charm and historic elements! 2148 W Monroe Street is a beautiful 3,000...
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,260
Sq.Ft.
2
Days on Site
11890084
MLS
Victorian single family home in the north center area on a very quiet residential block with many new homes. Hardwood flooring, open floorpan, back deck, and two car garage . Home in need of work...
5
Beds
3
Baths
2
Days on Site
11890274
MLS
(SEE PROFESSIONAL VIDEO AND 3D MATTERPORT TOUR AT TOP OF PAGE) Oversized Arts & Crafts inspired single family on an extra-wide and extra-deep lot in the vibrant East Rogers Park neighborhood!...
Open 9/24
3900 W Montrose Ave Chicago,  IL 60618
5
Beds
4
Baths
2
Days on Site
11890200
MLS
Don't let this one get away!!! Super cute and super sunny 5 bedroom/4 baths on an oversized corner lot with income from Airbnb! The income unit presents an excellent opportunity to provide...
3
Beds
3F11/2
Baths
3,190
Sq.Ft.
2
Days on Site
11884349
MLS
The period of 1897 when Queen Victoria's accession took place just as this impeccably, historic, Victorian home was established. One of the most stately and recognized homes in Palos Park, lovingly...
4
Beds
1F21/2
Baths
2,405
Sq.Ft.
2
Days on Site
11880865
MLS
THIS PROPERTY IS PRICED TO SELL QUICKLY.SELLING AS IS CONDITION.FEATURING- 5 BEDROOMS AND 1 BELOW. LARGE ATTIC LIVING SPACE. HARDWOOD FLOORS. 1 BLOCK EAST OF OAK PARK ILLNOIS. SOME UPDATES ARE...
5
Beds
4F11/2
Baths
3,711
Sq.Ft.
3
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11886010
MLS
Rare, elegant, updated row home with main and coach house located in West Town/East Village offers numerous possibilities. Main house has 5 bedrooms 3.1 bathrooms with three complete levels including...
4
Beds
5
Baths
5,020
Sq.Ft.
4
Days on Site
11887944
MLS
Behind this classic brick facade is one of the coolest loft style homes in Lincoln Park. Indulge in the pinnacle of luxury living with this extraordinary property with high-end details throughout....
3
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
2,800
Sq.Ft.
6
Days on Site
11877953
MLS
All land developers, farmers, marijuana growers, or just looking to sprawl on this beautiful 5-acre parcel/gentleman's farm located at the intersection of N. Kilbourne Ave. and ninth Street in Zion...
8
Beds
4
Baths
6
Days on Site
11887216
MLS
Incredible Victorian 3 flat investment opportunity in the heart of Lake View. Fully leased building with high qualified residents and gross rents equaling $108,600. These long-term local owners have...
4
Beds
1F11/2
Baths
2,375
Sq.Ft.
7
Days on Site
11872251
MLS
You'll Fall in LOVE with this 4 bedroom, 2 bath Vintage Victorian! All Brick with NEW ROOF 2023, New furnace 2021, Freshly painted throughout. 11 Ft ceilings, Open staircase, Enormous Windows and...
4
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
3,000
Sq.Ft.
8
Days on Site
11879247
MLS
Welcome to 908 West Fullerton Tucked Away, this stately, one-of-a-kind, brick Victorian Italianate home built in 1890 combines historic Chicago elegance with premium contemporary lifestyle. Nestled...