Victorian Voyage

Peek Into These Incredible French Homes That Explore The Classics Of Victorian Style.

- Carly Evans

In his new book Perfect French Country, Shaw explores the stories of those who abandoned city life and took to the hills. Their homes vary in size and style, from restored castles and restaurants to barns and farmhouses. Despite their differences, they all emulate a wonderfully universal Victorian theme.

PATTERNS

A classic Victorian staple is pattern. Whether the designs are subtle and sparse or loud and proud, patterns in any home emulate Victorian style. Many of the homes in Perfect French Country use a multitude of patterns to convey a historic theme in their homes. As Shaw approaches one such home, he writes, “No sign of anything that might be described as ‘grand,’ no heavy wheel driving giant cogs, just the reflection of trees in still water, and a plume of wood smoke rising from a chimney.”

A humble home passed down through four generations gets a restoration and new décor. From patterned curtains to separate rooms and a patterned canopy over the bed, the multitude of different designs creates a cozy and homey feel to the home.