The Evolution Of The Victorian Terrace: A Tale Of Two Continents

By Emma Stergoulis & Eunice Aubert

2 July 2024

Victorian terraces, with their distinct charm and historical significance, have captivated homeowners and designers alike for centuries. Originally stemming from the UK, these iconic properties are very much part of some of the historic suburbs of Sydney. In their original form they have a very defined layout or floor plan regardless of location. However, with the progression of time and expectations of modern comfort these properties have had to evolve. With two very different climates, and indeed a need to respond to different cultural and environmental influences, we thought it may be fun to delve into the history and modern renovation of Victorian terraces. Highlighting the similarities and differences in practical design solutions between the UK and Australia.

So Lets Set The Scene

Sketch by Emma Stergoulis

Victorian terraces first emerged in the United Kingdom during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901). These homes were characterised by their narrow, multi-story structures, decorative facades, and uniform appearance. They were built with the purpose to accommodate a rapidly growing urban population, they combined functionality with aesthetic appeal, often featuring intricate ironwork, bay windows, and high ceilings. With the “keep up with the Jones’” attitude, there was also the desire to have a grand entrance starting from the porch way through to the intricate plasterwork and detailing in the long hallways. When the British colonised Australia, they brought their architectural styles with them, including the Victorian terrace. Adapted to the Australian climate and lifestyle, these terraces became prominent in cities like Sydney and Melbourne during the late 19th century. While maintaining the classic Victorian charm, Australian terraces often incorporated wider verandahs, larger gardens, and modifications to suit the warmer weather. The thick brick was also perfect at keeping the houses cool in the summer months and the fireplaces adding a little warmth during those cooler months..

Keeping With The Times

Fortunately these little time capsules of historical architecture have remained part of the landscape in the inner cities of Australia and the UK, with some being protected by heritage, at least in terms of their facade if not internally. But like anything in life in order for them to survive and work in modern times they need to adapt. Whilst some decades dictated a trend of stripping every little bit of detail out of them, we are definitely in an era now where the detail is very much desired, and as interior designers it is about retaining this detail, whilst allowing the properties to function in a way which works with the demands of modern life…. And what’s more allows them to continue to adapt yet retain their beauty as these trends change in the years to come.

What Are The Main Priorities?

In the UK, renovating Victorian terraces involves a delicate balance between preserving historical integrity and incorporating modern conveniences. Key trends include:

Restoring Original Features: Homeowners and designers focus on retaining elements like fireplaces, cornices, and sash windows.

Maximizing Space: With limited square footage, clever storage solutions, loft conversions, and even under ground excavation to create lower level parking or additional rooms.

Energy Efficiency: Upgrading insulation, windows, and heating systems to improve energy efficiency while maintaining the home's historical character and underfloor heating.

Now not that we are bragging but Australia is generally a little more gifted in the weather department that the UK, as such whilst many of the UK trends are showing up in Australian renovations there is a lot more of an emphasis on blending indoor and outdoor living spaces, reflecting the country's lifestyle. Accordingly the key trends include:

Open-Plan Living: Merging living, dining, and kitchen areas to create a spacious, airy feel. Allowing these to merge means that we can all feel part of the action in the home it allows you to work in the kitchen but at the same time socialise with guests if you are an entertainer, or watch the kids if you are a parent. There is less of a need to contain heat into smaller spaces which is why separate kitchen still remain a little more prevalent in the UK.

Outdoor Integration: Whilst Australia does have a few colder months during the year, life is where possible about enhancing the connedtion between indoors and outdoors with large verandahs, bi-fold doors, and alfresco dining areas. The good old BBQ often gets used as much as the kitchen oven here.

Climate Adaptation: With the sunshine does come some challenges as such designs need to respond to and makw the most of materials and solutions that respond to the Australian Climate, such as optimizing natural light and ventilation and ensuring they can withstand the harsher apspects of the sun.

What Are The Main Similarities In Relation To Design Solutions?

Heritage Preservation: whilst this has not always

been the case there is definitely more of a trend in

both continents to prioritise maintaining the

historical elements that give Victorian terraces their

unique character. Where these are being added

back in there may be a more watered down

hint to avoid looking contrived but to give a nod to

the details that once were.

Modern Amenities: Ultimately while clients like the

character they are not really willing to compromise

and retain outdoor toilets and bring out the tin bath

in front of the open fire! As such it is about

cleverly integrating modern kitchens, bathrooms,

and technology to allow the home to work for the

now

(and hopefully well into the future) whilst

respecting the home's period features.

Sustainability: As designers we also cannot ignore an increasing focus on sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient upgrades and eco-friendly materials. Regardless of the continent, obtaining comfort with the lowest footprint and financial outlay is undoubtedly a large factor.

What Are The Main Differences?

Climate Adaptation: I promise the Aussies are not bragging again but Australian terraces often feature designs that maximise airflow and natural light, such as higher ceilings and larger windows, to combat the warmer climate. Whereas the UK is about retaining warmth and natural light.

Outdoor Spaces: Australian homes typically have more extensive outdoor areas, reflecting the emphasis on outdoor living, while UK terraces might have smaller gardens or courtyards.

Architectural Modifications: Given the above UK renovations typically involve basement or loft conversions due to space constraints, while Australian terraces might expand into the rear of the property. The expansion at the rear of the property may be more modern in it’s feel so there is a need to seamlessly blend the old and the new.

Colour choices: Apart from the fact that Dulux has different names for the same colours in either continent….. the different climates and living requirements mean that the use of colour is also very different. Whilst this is a little bit of a generalisation Australia likes to embrace the whites (all several hundred of them) where as we see a lot more colour injected in the palettes of the UK counterparts.

Conclusion

Victorian Terraces, whether in the UK or Australia, continue to be a beloved architectural style that has managed to stand the test of time and allow owners to marry a little bit of history with modern living. It is also amazing that a property is able to adapt to two very different climates and cultural demands to stunning effect.

Emma Stergoulis is the Director of Emma Stergoulis Design. Based in Sydney Emma creates designs that honour the essence of you and your home's history helping to preserve your home’s charm whilst infusing modern elegance and practical design. Born in the UK, starting school in the Caribbean and moving to Sydney in 2001 has given her a wide understanding of many cultures, and climates. Originally studying law and entering the corporate world she stepped off of the ladder to follow her creative dream in 2017.

Eunice is the founder and Creative Director of EA Design . Having travelled extensively and living in numerous places including Hong Kong and Australia, these experiences have enhanced her deep appreciation for art, culture and the built environment. Coming from an art background, she’s always had an eye for design, which she actively started pursuing in 2016. Respectful of the architecture that was heralded before her, Eunice is skilled at creating environments that resonate with the era, yet tell the story of the people that occupy it now and into the future. She currently lives in North Wales with projects spanning across North Wales and other parts of the U.K.