Can You Tell the Difference Between a Victorian and an Edwardian Home?

Photo from Inn SF

San Francisco’s neighborhoods are known for their charm, character, and—of course—iconic architecture. From the Painted Ladies of Alamo Square to tucked-away gems in the Inner Sunset, our city is a living museum of beautifully preserved homes from bygone eras. But can you really tell the difference between a Victorian and an Edwardian home?

Here’s a quick guide to help you spot the differences as you explore San Francisco’s historic streets.

1. Victorian Homes: Ornate, Romantic, and Full of Flair

Built roughly between 1837 and 1901, during Queen Victoria’s reign, Victorian homes are known for their intricate detailing and dramatic flair. In San Francisco, many of these homes were built in the late 1800s and have since become defining features of the city's landscape.

Key Features:

Elaborate trim and decorative “gingerbread” detailing
Steeply pitched roofs and towers or turrets
Vibrant, multi-color paint schemes (think the Painted Ladies)
Asymmetrical façades
Stained glass, bay windows, and high ceilings

See Examples:
Visit the famous Painted Ladies at Alamo Square, or explore Lower Haight for blocks lined with well-preserved Victorians.

2. Edwardian Homes: Subtle, Sturdy, and Sophisticated

Edwardian architecture came right after the Victorian era, spanning roughly 1901 to 1914 during King Edward VII’s rule. After the 1906 earthquake, much of San Francisco was rebuilt in this style—practical, solid, and slightly more restrained than its predecessor.

Key Features:

Simpler lines and less ornate than Victorians
Classical influences: columns, cornices, and keystones
Larger, more open interiors
Stucco or brick exteriors more common
Emphasis on symmetry and natural light

See Examples:
Take a walk through the Inner Richmond or Noe Valley, where you’ll find rows of classic Edwardians with large windows and understated elegance.

3. A Side-by-Side Snapshot

Feature	Victorian	Edwardian
Time Period	1837–1901	1901–1914
Design Style	Ornate, decorative, romantic	Simplified, classical, practical
Roof Style	Steep, gabled, often with turrets	Flat or hipped roofs
Window Style	Stained glass, bay windows	Larger sash windows
Color Palette	Bold, multiple colors	Muted, earthy tones

Looking for a Home with Historical Character?

Whether you dream of a whimsical Victorian with crown moldings and bay windows or a solid Edwardian with spacious interiors, San Francisco offers both—often just a few blocks apart.

Thinking of buying or selling a home in one of the city’s historic neighborhoods like Alamo Square, Noe Valley, or Pacific Heights? We're here to guide you through the process with deep neighborhood knowledge and market expertise.

Explore Victorian & Edwardian Homes for Sale in SF