Illustrated with more than 150 full-color photographs, this book is not only a sourcebook for architects, designers, decorators, and owners of Victorian houses everywhere, but a detailed look at the historical and cultural environment that shaped this unique style. In an accessible text, Randolph Delehanty traces the development of Victorian architecture and tells the story of how new technologies in construction, furnishing, and utilities made it possible to conceive and build these elaborate, expressive, yet fundamentally modern homes. He also offers an in-depth tour of the interiors of classic Victorian dwellings, walking readers through grand entrance halls, parlors, and dining rooms and allowing them to explore the rarely seen details of informal living spaces such as kitchens, pantries, and bathrooms. Enhanced by writings of the period, this volume is a comprehensive homage to the eloquence and endurance of this popular architectural style.--From publisher description.