Victorian Paint Colours

Victorian properties are rich in architectural details. If you've recently relocated to a period property and want to restore your space to its former glory, traditional Victorian paint colours are a must.

However, authentic paint colours from this era don't need to be at odds with modern living. In fact, there's a good chance you've already used a few Victorian colours in your decorating projects before. 

Whether you're thinking about restoring an older property or want to bring some period character to a contemporary space, a Victorian palette will get you off to a great start.

Don't know where to start with period paint colours? Our guide breaks down what you need to know about decorating with these moody hues and how you can enhance your interiors with Victorian-inspired design accents and period features. 

What Paint Colours Were Used in the Victorian Era?

During the Victorian era, traditional palettes were made up of darker colours. A typical Victorian interior might include deep red shades like maroon and burgundy, while chestnut brown and moody dark grey were also common. Dark green, deep chocolate browns and dark blue were also design staples of the Victorian era. 

Although these darker colours were effective at concealing rough and uneven walls, they did have a tendency to leave rooms looking gloomy. However, you can still embrace these richer hues when decorating a more modern space. 

If brown shades are making your space feel oppressive, consider switching them out for dark greens or teal. If pastel-covered walls require an update, swap out those lighter shades for creamy paint colours that will enhance authentic period features. 

Our Top Victorian Paint Colours

Ready to revive a Victorian property? We've picked out some of our favourite period paint colours that will help you turn your design renovation dreams into a reality. 

Dark blue is a strong Victorian shade that works equally well in traditional spaces and more contemporary homes. You can use the same colour throughout a larger room, or combine it with contrasting white-painted woodwork to make a statement. 

A rich shade like Ink M350 is a terrific choice for any Victorian interior. Although it's on the darker side, it's an incredibly intense choice. You can balance things out with pastel shades, or opt for creamy neutrals when adding period-style mouldings to your space. 

If you'd prefer something more subtle, consider using Indigo L429. This is another inky blue but is a more muted take that will look right at home alongside a pale wood floor. 

A mid-tone blue is a strong alternative if your room is lacking in natural light. Something like Atlantis L433 is worth considering if you're limited to small windows and want to create a more vibrant and airy interior.

Greens are another good choice for Victorian interiors. Perfect for creating a more tranquil space, richer shades can enhance period features and are incredibly versatile. 

Sepal L447 is a standout of our period paint collection. This olive green is fairly muted, but this makes it easy to pair with everything from off-white to slate grey. 

If you're combining multiple colours, think about using Silk Road S440. This medium green is underscored with a hint of blue, making it a fine addition to rooms featuring inky hues. 

Looking for something more vibrant? Consider using Basilica M384. Although rich and opulent, there's an earthy character at work here that works well in more traditional spaces. 

It's easy to reach for crisp whites when applying the finishing touches to a Victorian property. However, if you're looking to capture an authentic aesthetic, you'll want to swap out plain emulsions for soft creams instead. 

An earthy off-white like Acropolis F458 is perfect for picking out mouldings and other decorative elements. It'll work well alongside any primary colour, while a delicate hint of pink adds warmth. 

Merino Y458 is another good option if you're looking for a white alternative that's not lacking in warmth. This creamy white will elevate any room, with its sultry undertones that make it a fine addition to any decor scheme. 

If you're after a more harmonious neutral, go with Halo F462. With plenty of peachy character, this creamy paint colour is another versatile choice that will work alongside reds, blues, greens and purples alike.

Purple is a bold colour choice, but it's regularly found in period properties that can serve as a stylish base for any Victorian interior. 

A rich and earthy purple like Beetroot M425 is just the ticket if you're looking to overhaul a lounge or dining room with a regal makeover. Although it's a darker shade, a vivid red base means this purple isn't oppressive. 

Sometimes, a more vibrant purple is called for. An intense shade like Tango M339 is ideal if you're looking to capture the spirit of Victorian interior design, but don't want your interiors to feel sapped of energy. 

If you're considering a more muted scheme, try something like Lair X502. This purple hue works well with jewel tones and is great for more grown-up spaces. 

Your interior decoration doesn't need to be limited by sombre greys, inky blues and muted greens. The Victorians were no strangers to reds and we've got plenty of eye-catching choices for you to consider. 

A crimson red Pomegranate M423 is quintessentially Victorian. You can use this one as an all-wall colour or combine it with a secondary colour that's a few shades darker. 

Using richer hues and dark woods? A warm red like Marmalade M326 will make a fine addition to your decor. With a hint of purple, it's an easy choice for elevating your living spaces. 

Finally, there's Madras N411. This warm red impresses with its earthy character. Coordinate with creamy neutrals and pale wood flooring to create a dazzling space from a bygone era.

Other Victorian Design Trends To Consider

Colour palettes are important when it comes to Victorian design. However, it's not the only weapon in your arsenal. Below, we've picked out a few Victorian design trends you can put to use to ensure your decorating project is as authentic as possible. 

Have Your Furniture Tie Into the Space

There's no point overthinking your colour palette if you're going to fill your rooms with mismatched furniture. Pieces from this era were typically manufactured from dark wood like oak, walnut and mahogany. If you're using lighter materials, think about stripping them back and staining them first. 

Victorian furniture was also known for its excessive ornamentation. If your storage units and cabinets are looking a little bare, think about enhancing them with decorative handles, beading and mouldings.  

Create Era Appropriate Architectural Features

The Victorian era spanned more than half a century. As such, there are a lot of architectural features to draw from. If your home has existing period features, put the effort into restoring them. 

If you're decorating a newer property, you can still embrace Victorian architectural features. Built-in bookcases are not only practical but synonymous with Victorian design. Meanwhile, inexpensive carved mouldings and wainscoting wall panelling can be introduced to spaces lacking traditional touches. 

You can even invest in stained glass windows. If your budget won't stretch to replacing your existing glazing, think about installing a transom window or two above interior doors. Wrought ironwork also works well in period properties, adding an understated touch of rustic luxury. 

Tiled floors work well in hallways and some reception rooms, but living spaces will benefit from a hardwood floor. For a premium finish, consider splashing out on smoked oak parquetry. If you're keeping your existing flooring, Persian rugs with elaborate motifs are an era-appropriate design choice.   

Add Appropriate Accessories

You can now start bringing your space together with those finishing touches. Early Victorian fireplaces were typically ornate with intricate designs. If you prefer simpler details, look to the late Victorian era for more geometric mantle surrounds. 

Textiles are also effective for enhancing a Victorian interior. During this era, drapes were typically heavy and ornate, with impressive drops and full pelmets. 

You'll also want to be generous when introducing soft furnishings. Add texture with embroidered cushions and opt for premium fabrics like velvet. 

The Victorians didn't skimp when it came to decorative pieces. Vases will make a stylish addition to any interior, but make sure you're picking something that lends itself well to a Victorian interior. Ornate glass and hand-painted ceramics will always go down well. 

Indoor plants became popular during this era. Potted plants like palms and ferns will bring life and energy to your space, while orchids will serve as decorative pieces in their own right. 

Finally, consider adding mounted frames to your walls. The Victorians pioneered the concept of the gallery wall, so experiment with portraits, landscapes and prints in all shapes and sizes.