On the Ironical Reconciliation of Modernist Tastes With Victorian Touches
August 24, 2008 – 11:33 amDear Gentle City Dweller,
Do you live in a Victorian or Edwardian home but have Modernist tastes and tendencies? How do you reconcile your preference for contemporary, streamlined design and décor with the over-the-top, in-your-face embellishments built into the Victorian home? Here’s how: YOU GIVE IT RIGHT BACK! You celebrate your Victorian flourishes, but do it in modern fashion: IRONICALLY, of course. Here’s one way to get started.
First, find the most interesting Victorian appurtenances in your place. Look for heavy crown molding, ornate doorknobs, flamboyant ceiling light fixtures, cranky radiator controls, and the like. Then photograph them, Photoshop them extensively, and hang them on your wall!
Forget about frames, or using your picture rails (another Victorian embellishment). Unframed images are hot right now. They’re unfussy and inexpensive, and their thickness makes them POP(!) right off the wall. Use a service like Canvas Press to blow them up to any size, even JUMBO! You can hang them in groups or alone, depending on size and subject matter, just don’t be too fussy or formal about it. And next time one of your hipster friends chides you for shoehorning your Modernist vibe into a stuffy Victorian, you can show him your satirical celebration and shut him right up.
Most SINCERELY Yours,
GMR
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2 Responses to “On the Ironical Reconciliation of Modernist Tastes With Victorian Touches”
What an outstanding idea! My house dates from the twilight years of the Victorian era (what year did the old lady kick, anyhow?), 1900. I’m sure I could find a detail or two to document. Thanks for the fantastic inspiration!
By Daniel on Aug 24, 2008
PS Ironical, indeed …
By Daniel on Aug 24, 2008