VICTORIAN 1837 - 1900

The Future

By the early years of the twentieth century the eclectic ornamentation of the Victorian building was felt by some to be vulgar and brash and Victorian buildings were pulled down in their thousands. The Victorian Society was set up in 1958 in an effort to save important nineteenth century buildings under threat of demolition. Gradually attitudes changed and areas of Victorian housing in towns became popular.

One of the main threats to these buildings today is inappropriate alterations. Timber sash windows are being ripped out and replaced with modern uPVC double glazed units with thick frames and incorrect proportions. As slates slip, roofs are being covered with artificial slates which are flat and lifeless. Brick work is covered with concrete render destroying decorative brick detailing as well as the faces of the ordinary brick. In some cases large unattractive flat roofed dormer windows are added to the roof line to create more living space.

Some of these alterations are reversible. Timber sliding sash windows can be repaired or replaced as can natural slate roofs. Where uPVC rainwater goods are shabby and cracked they can be replaced with cast iron gutters and downpipes, which will last for many years. If gates and railings have been removed they can be replaced with replicas. Where original details still exist, they should be cherished. If detailing is missing from your house, find one of similar date and style to yours in your area to inform your approach to restoration.