Paint Colors to Restore Period Properties with Flair

Reviving the charm of period properties is a fulfilling project that connects us to architectural history while expressing personal style. One of the most effective methods to rejuvenate a historical home is through the choice of exterior paint colors.

In this post, we will examine timeless paint colors that harmonize beautifully with various architectural styles, ensuring your restored period home captures attention for all the right reasons.

Victorian Houses: 1837–1901

Victorian houses are known for their ornate details, and during the Victorian era (1837–1901), exterior color schemes evolved significantly. The colorful homes in Notting Hill, London, are predominantly from the Victorian era, dating back to the mid-19th century.

In the early Victorian period (1830s–1860s) muted tones are mostly used. Inspired by Gothic Revival and Classical Revival styles, colors like ochre, gray, beige, taupe, and sage green were common.

In the mid-Victorian Period (1860s–1880s) influenced by the Aesthetic Movement, colors became darker and richer. For example, these were used: Deep reds, Hunter green, chocolate brown. Multiple complementary colors were used to highlight architectural details (Polychromatic Schemes).

All colors by Farrow & Ball

Finally, in the late Victorian period (1880s–1901) saw vibrant, contrasting colors to emphasize the intricate trims, shingles, and gables (Queen Anne Style). During this time, Mustard yellows, Peacock blue and Purples and plums are used.

In cities like San Francisco, these homes showcased a triadic color scheme with a base color, a trim color, and an accent color for maximum visual impact (Painted Ladies style).

General Tips for Victorian Color Palettes

1. Trim Colors: Often white, cream, or a lighter version of the main color.

2. Accent Colors: Used sparingly to highlight details like brackets, corbels, or finials.

3. Contrasting Shades: Deep or jewel tones contrasted with lighter, pastel trims.

These palettes reflected the technological advancements of the time, such as synthetic pigments, which allowed for a broader spectrum of colors. Victorian homes remain iconic for their bold and expressive use of color.

Edwardian Houses: 1901-1914

Edwardian houses (1901–1914) favored lighter and more restrained color palettes compared to the richer tones of the Victorian era. These homes reflected a shift toward simplicity and elegance inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement and a focus on natural, airy aesthetics.

Dutch gables, deep bay windows, sash windows, pilasters and the trends that were to half-clad the property exterior in timber or sub-divide windows into smaller square panes in order to create an aesthetic appeal.

During this time neutral and light shades take centre stage: Cream, off-white, and pale beige were common for exterior walls, emphasizing the clean lines of Edwardian architecture.

Doors and window frames were often painted in contrasting, darker colors like deep green, burgundy, or charcoal to add sophistication

Edwardian homes embraced harmony and natural beauty, with color choices often influenced by the Arts and Crafts ethos of the time. This resulted in timeless, understated exteriors that balanced elegance and practicality.

Georgian Houses (1714 to 1830)

This is a significant period in British history characterized by the reigns of the first four British monarchs of the House of Hanover: George I, George II, George III, and George IV. This era is often noted for its distinctive cultural, political, and social developments that laid the groundwork for modern Britain.

The Georgian period is marked by a flourishing of the arts, architecture, and literature, as well as significant advancements in science and industry.

Exterior Colors

The exterior colors of Georgian houses are typically characterized by muted tones that reflect the natural environment and the prevailing tastes of the time.

Common colors include soft whites, pale yellows, and light grays, often derived from natural pigments. These hues were not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, as they helped to reflect sunlight and keep the homes cooler during the warmer months.

In urban settings, brick was a favored material, and many Georgian homes showcased a warm red or brown brick facade, often accented with white or cream-colored stone trim around windows and doors.

This combination created a striking contrast that enhanced the architectural details, such as decorative cornices and pilasters, which are hallmark features of the Georgian style.

Interior Colors

Moving inside, the color schemes of Georgian interiors were equally thoughtful. Rooms were often painted in soft, muted colors that created a sense of warmth and sophistication. Popular shades included pale blues, soft greens, and delicate creams, which were designed to harmonize with the natural light that flooded through large, multi-paned windows.

These colors not only made the spaces feel more inviting but also served to highlight the intricate plasterwork and wood detailing that were common in Georgian interiors.

Embracing History with Timeless Colors

Selecting the right exterior paint colors is crucial when restoring period properties. The timeless shades discussed here—classic white, charcoal gray, sage green, dusty blue, and deep burgundy—offer endless opportunities to express individuality while honoring the historical character of your home.

Each color has its unique charm, allowing homeowners to curate authentic color palettes that reflect the beauty of their properties. Whether enveloping your Victorian house in dusty blue or making a statement with deep burgundy, the right color choice breathes new life into your home while preserving its historical essence.

The relationship between color and architecture holds a special magic. Embrace the shades that resonate with you and embark on your journey to restore the charm of your period property with paint that stands the test of time. Enjoy the painting journey!

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Our writers like to blog about real estate hotspots. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs. Download our free bathroom renovation guide here.