An Architectural Voyage – Part 7

Victorian Architecture: When Buildings Went Full Diva

Victorian architecture is basically the goth-meets-glam fashion statement of the 19th century. Picture a house all dolled up for a fancy party—frills, lace, over-the-top accessories. These homes were built during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837–1901), and, much like the fashion of the time, they went hard on the extra. We’re talking fancy trims, bold colours, and designs that look straight out of a fairytale.

Victorian houses are like the divas of architecture. They’ve got steep, pointy roofs that could double as witch hats, intricate wooden trims (called “gingerbread” because, you know, sweet), and towers that make you feel like Rapunzel should be chilling in one of them. And let’s not forget the paint jobs. Bright, bold colours that basically scream, “LOOK AT ME!” from a mile away.

Victorian Styles: From Spooky to Super Fancy

There are a few styles under the Victorian umbrella, and each one has its own unique vibe:

• Gothic Revival: This style is all moody and dramatic, like it’s always ready to star in a spooky movie. Sharp arches, tall windows, and a healthy dose of “I might be haunted” energy.
• Queen Anne: The most famous Victorian style. Wraparound porches, quirky asymmetrical designs (no balance here, thank you!), and loads of decorative trim. If it had a voice, it would say, “Oh, you thought I was done? Nope, here’s some more!”
• Italianate: Think Italian villa, but with more pizzazz. Rounded windows that look like they’re raising their eyebrows at you and super fancy details like brackets and cornices.
• Second Empire: Ever wanted a roof that looks like it belongs in Paris? Enter the Second Empire, with its iconic mansard roofs. It’s like a chic hat for your house. Très fancy!

Inside these homes? Just as extra. Rich colours, ornate fireplaces, fancy chandeliers—each room is its own little Victorian drama. But be warned: the Victorians weren’t into open floor plans. Expect narrow hallways and a maze of tiny rooms. They wanted to impress, whether you were there for tea or a séance.

So, next time you see a Victorian house, give it a nod. It’s the architectural equivalent of that high-maintenance friend who takes forever to get ready, but always looks fabulous and knows how to have fun. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve wandered into a storybook or gothic mystery novel, because Victorian architecture? It’s a whole mood.

Meet the Rockstars of the 19th Century

These Victorian buildings didn’t just sit quietly—they strutted, preened, and made sure everyone knew they were fabulous, they still steal the spotlight today:

1. The Carson Mansion (Eureka, California)

This house is extra in every possible way. It’s got turrets, towers, a wraparound porch, and more gingerbread trim than a holiday cookie exchange. Regarded as one of the premier examples of Queen Anne style architecture, it was built for a wealthy lumber baron, it’s the ultimate “I’m rich, and I want you to know it” mansion. Think of it as the Tim Burton of architecture—both whimsical and a little spooky.

2. Palace of Westminster (London, UK)

Not just any house—THE house of UK Parliament. With its towering Gothic Revival design and Big Ben (the bell, but everyone calls the tower that), it’s basically a castle that’s ready to pass some laws or throw a royal ball. Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin went all out, and it’s a perfect example of that Victorian “go big or go home” energy.

3. Royal Albert Hall (London, UK)

A giant, round concert hall, created in Italianate style, it was built as a love letter to Queen Victoria’s hubby, Prince Albert. This is the Victorian equivalent of a really fancy “thank you” note. Its gorgeous brickwork and domed roof still make it a prime spot for concerts today, proving Victorian architecture can rock for centuries.

4. The Painted Ladies (San Francisco, California)

If you’ve ever watched Full House, you’ve seen these pastel beauties. The Painted Ladies are a row of brightly coloured, candy-like houses that show off the Victorian love for colour. Forget beige; these Queen Anne homes pop with personality. Even after surviving earthquakes, they’re still picture-perfect.

5. Laxmi Vilas Palace (Vadodara, India)

Victorian flair didn’t stop in Europe. In India, Laxmi Vilas Palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace, blending Victorian Gothic with Indian architecture. Huge dome? Check. Marble pillars? Check. Sprawling grounds fit for a king? Double check. This palace is the ultimate global fusion.

6. Fonthill Castle (Doylestown, Pennsylvania)

Now for something quirky. Fonthill Castle is what happens when a Victorian mansion meets a mediaeval castle and an art museum. Built by a guy with a wild imagination (Henry Chapman Mercer), it’s made almost entirely of concrete and covered in tile work. With mismatched towers and odd-shaped windows, this house wasn’t here to follow rules.

7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Mumbai, India)

Formerly known as VictoriaTerminus, this Victorian Gothic train station looks more like a cathedral than a transit hub. It’s got domes, spires, and arches that mix Victorian drama with Indian elegance. A perfect mix of beauty and function, it’s one of the busiest train stations in India today, proving that Victorian style can keep up with modern life.

8. Marischal College (Aberdeen, Scotland)

Marischal College is like the grand, silver-haired showstopper of Victorian architecture. If buildings could walk the runway, this one would be strutting in all its granite glory, giving off major Game of Thrones castle vibes.

Built in the 19th century, Marischal College is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture—but not the gloomy, haunted kind. Nope, this one is super fancy, with pointed arches, spires that reach for the sky, and an overall vibe that says, “I am majestic, and I know it.” The college is practically glowing, thanks to the shiny, grey granite that makes it sparkle in the northern light (Aberdeen’s called the “Granite City” for a reason!).

One of the coolest things about Marischal College is that it’s absolutely massive. It’s one of the largest granite buildings in the world, so if it were a superhero, its power would be size. Walking up to it, you feel like you’re stepping into a mediaeval fantasy world—but with less sword fighting and more studying. Those soaring spires and intricate stone carvings make it look like it was designed for wizards, not just regular students.

So, if you’re ever in Aberdeen and want to feel like you’ve wandered into Hogwarts, Marischal College is your go-to. It’s basically the crown jewel of granite architecture, a giant piece of Gothic flair that manages to be both imposing and totally stunning at the same time. Plus, it’s the ultimate “look at me” building, standing tall and proud in the heart of the city.

Victorian Builds in 3DX

There are quite a few rooms in 3dx that give off some serious Gothic Revival vibes from the Victorian era, and honestly, they look pretty epic. One of the coolest recent examples? A room that was used for a super popular fashion show in the game! Talk about mixing moody Victorian drama with runway glam, right?

I bet most of the Victorian-inspired spaces in 3dx are designed for personal homes because that style just oozes character and detail. It’s another one that fits so well with the 3dx build menu too—those arches and intricate designs are perfect for adding a touch of drama. I’m definitely going to keep my eyes peeled and see where else I can spot that influence!

Do you know about Victorian builds that you’d like to see featured in the gazette? Let us know.

These famous Victorian buildings are proof that when it came to architecture, the Victorians believed more was definitely more. Whether it’s a candy-coloured house or a towering Gothic masterpiece, Victorian architecture was all about making a statement—and centuries later, they’re still turning heads.

By Eskarina