Victorian’s in the Desert?

Few remain, but Victorian homes were once a somewhat familiar sight in Arizona, in and around the central Phoenix district in particular. In the mid 1800’s and early 1900’s migration from the east was starting to become more common. Well-to-do settlers and successful prospectors built what was recognized back east as an accepted sign of affluence, the Victorian.

Most of Arizona’s remaining Victorian style homes are no longer personal residences. They primarily serve as museums, historic attractions, offices and private businesses.

You can find a fascinating and informative “then and now” accounting of some of Phoenix’s Victorian homes, among other remarkable buildings of historic note, here on the Downtown Phoenix Inc. website.

4 Defining Features of Victorian-Style Homes

There are many ways to describe Victorian architecture. Grand, eclectic and ornate come to mind. While it should come as no surprise that the iconic architectural movement emerged during Queen Victoria’s reign over the British Empire from 1837 to 1901, it can actually refer to several different styles that were prevalent during this period, such as Queen Anne, Second Empire and Romanesque. There are, however, certain defining features that have become synonymous with the Victorian-style home’s endless appeal.

Towers and Turrets
Often rounded, though sometimes squared, they typically rise above steeply pitched roofs and create an asymmetrical façade. Scalloped shingles are commonly used for the exterior of the home, though some styles, like Romanesque, are constructed from stone.

Wraparound Porches
Everyone loves a wraparound porch. Many Victorian-style homes are designed with such a porch in order to greet visitors with a spacious, covered seating area. In addition to providing an elegant outdoor living space, this feature sets the stage for the grandeur that continues throughout.

Meandering Floor Plans
Looking for an open floor plan? A traditional Victorian may not be for you. Interiors often have elaborate layouts with rooms of various shapes and proportions, from grand parlors and reception rooms to intimate nooks and secluded alcoves. Today, it’s not uncommon to find a Victorian that’s been renovated by opening up or combining living spaces on the main level.

Intricate Details
An ornate aesthetic is always front and center of any Victorian architecture worth its salt. Outside, you may notice stained glass windows and intricately-carved eaves, while the interior often features impressive wood finishes and decorative moldings.
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2020. All rights reserved.

Feature Photo, Rosson House in Phoenix Arizona, by Greg O’Beirne via Wikkipedia.