Mid Victorian 1860 > 1875

While retaining a similar form to its Early Victorian precursors, this era of house was distinguished by a greater level of ornamentation. There was an increased use of stucco on exterior surfaces, while decorative brickwork was prevalent in fashionable houses of the period. Verandahs were common, usually of timber construction and often incorporated cast iron lacework and patterned tile floors.

Social history

Increased wealth from the gold rush saw a middle class begin to emerge, and was reflected in more ornate domestic architecture. Mechanisation increased local production of building materials.

Victoria’s population grew rapidly and property developers constructed rows of freestanding and terrace housing sprawling outwards along the newly constructed train lines.

Click on the links to watch Miles Lewis discuss the introduction of services to Victoria and spread of the city in the mid Victorian era.