When I was creating a plan for my new library, I chose the floral wallpaper to cover the walls behind the couch and bookcases. I picked it because I wanted to give our library a little bit of an old-world feel, since most of the furniture is modern.
Years ago, I avoided floral patterns from the past because they seemed dusty. As I grow older, I appreciate those motifs, as well as the era when people enjoyed books, music and art. I find myself spending more time in art museums and reading books about natural history. I was curious about what my mother-in-law should do with an old set of leather bound books and instantly wanted to flip through them to relive the days when people relied on books to get information rather than the internet.
Victorian florals have a moment, thanks to the continued popularity of vintage art and the recent resurgence in wall murals. We all want to have a little bit of history in our home, with a hint of the 19th Century paired up with modern lines. Add wallpaper, artwork, or home accents that feature Victorian botanical motifs, while keeping all other furnishings and lighting current. Examples below.