Types of Victorian Homes

Folk

• Folk, also called vernacular, homes are relatively plain in comparison to what many people think of when they envision Victorian homes, according to the "Realtor Mag" website. Although these homes are technically Victorian, they don't feature elaborate towers. They're usually square and feature large porches. Ornamental trim, brackets and moldings link these homes with those of other Victorian styles, although the carvings are generally less elaborate than those of other Victorian styles.

Stick and Shingle

• Stick and shingle houses are relatively plain, except for exterior claddings, according to the "Realtor Mag" website. Shingle houses are sided mostly in wooden shingles and often have wraparound porches. Stick houses feature vertical, diagonal and horizontal boards crossed over the façade to create interesting patterns.

Gothic Revival

• Gothic Revival homes have pointed arches and steep gable roofs, according to the website Front Porch Ideas and More. These homes were inspired by the cathedrals of medieval Europe, according to the "Realtor Mag" website.

Italianate and Second Empire

• Italianate and Second Empire styles were inspired by architecture in parts of Europe. Although most Victorian styles have steep roofs and asymmetrical shapes, Italianate, or bracketed style, homes tend to be more rectangular. Inspired by Italian styles, they have low roofs, wide eaves and large ornamental brackets, according to the "Realtor Mag" website. Second Empire homes, also called Mansard style, were inspired by the architecture of Paris. They have high, boxlike roofs, providing extra living space.

Romanesque

• Romanesque homes are sometimes referred to as Richardsonian homes, since they were popularized by architect Henry Hobson Richardson. Romanesque houses are usually made of brick or stone and feature arched windows and entryways and elaborate decorative features, according to "Old-House Journal." Large porches and towers are also common among this style of Victorian home.

Queen Anne

• Many people envision Queen Anne-style architecture when they think of Victorian homes, according to the "Realtor Mag" website. Queen Anne homes have complex, irregular shapes, steep roofs and elaborate ornamental features, according to Front Porch Ideas and More. Queen Anne homes often combine surface materials such as brick, stone, various shingles and wood. This style of home almost always features a large wraparound porch, rounded bay windows and at least one tower.