If you’ve ever been enchanted by the miniature splendor of these tiny time capsules, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’re diving headfirst into the fascinating universe of vintage and antique dollhouses, where history, craftsmanship, and sheer whimsy come together in miniature form.
Starting with the most known style, the Victorian style, we will dive into 12 different antique and vintage dollhouse styles, so let’s go!
Antique dollhouses style 1: Victorian dollhouses
The Victorian era, spanning from the early 19th century to the early 20th century, was characterized by ornate and opulent design.
This style translated beautifully into the world of dollhouses, with miniature replicas reflecting the grandeur of the period.
Victorian dollhouses are known for their intricate detailing, lavish furnishings, and multiple stories, often adorned with turrets, gables, and bay windows.
These dollhouses capture the essence of Victorian architecture, featuring rich woodwork, elaborate wallpaper, and miniature chandeliers.
Now there are plenty of great historic Victorian dollhouses, with lots of them in museums and available for you to watch. A few examples here for you:
- The Scaife Victorian dollhouse
- The Juliana: Artist Vicky Bickel talks about this Victorian dollhouse which she finished many years after Julie Poland began constructing it.
Antique dollhouse style 2: Georgian elegance.
The Georgian era, spanning from the early 18th century to the early 19th century, was marked by a focus on classical and symmetrical design.
Georgian-style dollhouses are characterized by their timeless elegance, balanced proportions, and refined details. These miniature replicas often feature stately facades, symmetrical layouts, and classical architectural elements such as columns, pediments, and fanlights.
The interiors of Georgian dollhouses typically reflect the sophisticated taste of the period, with rich wood paneling, ornate fireplaces, and delicate wallpaper patterns.
- One notable example of Georgian-style dollhouses is the “Nostell Priory Dolls’ House,” which was created in the late 18th century and is now housed in the National Trust’s Nostell Priory in England.
This dollhouse is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and detailed Georgian interiors, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the time.
- Another well-known example is the “Kensington Palace Dolls’ House,” a masterpiece created in the early 18th century for Queen Mary II of England. This dollhouse is a remarkable representation of Georgian architecture and design, complete with miniature furnishings and works of art.
Antique dollhouse style 3: Colonial charm
The Colonial period in American history, spanning from the early 17th century to the late 18th century, is celebrated for its simplicity, practicality, and distinctive architectural style.
Colonial charm dollhouses capture the essence of this historical period with their quaint and rustic designs.
Colonial vintage dollhouse DIY plans by Snuzzlebabies
These dollhouses often feature:
- Traditional Colonial Architecture:
Colonial charm dollhouses typically emulate the architectural styles prevalent during this era, such as Cape Cod, Saltbox, and Colonial Revival. They showcase features like steep-pitched roofs, dormer windows, and central chimneys. - Whitewashed or Natural Wood Finishes:
Colonial homes were often constructed using timber, and this influence is reflected in dollhouses with either whitewashed exteriors or natural wood finishes. - Simple and Functional Furnishings:
The interiors of Colonial charm dollhouses are furnished with simple, functional, and handcrafted furniture pieces. Wooden tables, ladder-back chairs, and utilitarian textiles like linen and wool are common. - Fireplaces and Hearthside Living:
A central feature of Colonial charm dollhouses is the hearth, symbolizing the heart of the home. - Kitchen Gardens: Many Colonial dollhouses include miniature kitchen gardens with herbs, vegetables, and picket fences, showcasing the self-sufficiency and agricultural traditions of the time.
Colonial charm dollhouses provide a nostalgic glimpse into early American life, emphasizing the simplicity, functionality, and charm of Colonial-era homes. They are beloved by collectors for their historical accuracy and timeless appeal.
Antique dollhouse style 4: Tudor style dollhouses
Tudor architecture, inspired by the English Renaissance during the late 15th to early 17th centuries, is known for its distinctive half-timbered structures, steeply pitched roofs, and decorative elements.
Tudor-style dollhouses capture the charm and character of this historical period with their unique architectural features and intricate detailing.
Key characteristics of Tudor-style dollhouses include:
- Half-Timbered Facades: Tudor-style homes, both full-sized and miniature, prominently feature exposed wooden frameworks filled with wattle and daub or plaster. This half-timbered construction is a hallmark of Tudor architecture.
- Steep Gabled Roofs: Dollhouses in this style often have steeply pitched roofs with exposed wooden beams and ornate bargeboards at the gable ends.
- Lead-Glass Windows: Tudor-style dollhouses may have leaded glass windows with diamond-shaped panes, reflecting the use of mullioned windows in real Tudor homes.
- Quaint Chimneys: Intricately designed brick or stonework chimneys are common features of Tudor-style dollhouses.
- Thatched Roofs: Some Tudor-style dollhouses, particularly those representing rural cottages, feature thatched roofs, adding to their rustic charm.
A great example of Tudor-style dollhouses is made by Kevin Jackson and I interviewed him!
Tudor-style dollhouses are cherished by collectors for their historical significance and the timeless appeal of their architectural design.
Antique dollhouse style 5; Art Deco Dollhouses:
The Art Deco movement emerged in the early 20th century, primarily during the 1920s and 1930s.
It is characterized by its bold, geometric shapes, streamlined designs, and a focus on luxury and modernity.
Key features and characteristics of Art Deco dollhouses include:
- Geometric Shapes: Art Deco dollhouses often feature geometric patterns and shapes such as zigzags, sunbursts, and chevrons, which were hallmarks of the Art Deco style.
- Sleek and Streamlined Design: These dollhouses emphasize clean lines and simplicity, in contrast to the elaborate ornamentation of earlier styles. They may have flat roofs and smooth, unadorned surfaces.
- Luxurious Materials: Art Deco dollhouses might incorporate luxurious materials such as chrome, glass, lacquer, and exotic woods to reflect the opulence associated with the Art Deco era.
- Bold Colors: Vibrant and contrasting colors, often in bold combinations, are a defining feature of Art Deco design. Dollhouses in this style may showcase striking color schemes.
Now, let’s look at an example of an Art Deco dollhouse by WackiWear, where he takes you through different steps on building his Art Deco Dollhouse!
Antique dollhouse style 6: Baroque Splendor in Miniature
The Baroque period in architecture and design, which flourished during the 17th and early 18th centuries, is characterized by its ornate and extravagant style.
Baroque-style dollhouses capture the opulence and grandeur of this era with their elaborate detailing, rich materials, and intricate craftsmanship.
Key features and characteristics of Baroque-style dollhouses include:
- Ornate Woodwork: Baroque dollhouses often showcase intricate wood carvings, moldings, and paneling, reflecting the Baroque love for rich ornamentation.
- Curved Lines and Rococo Influences: Some Baroque-style dollhouses incorporate elements of the Rococo style, characterized by curved lines, asymmetry, and delicate embellishments.
- Gilded Accents: Gold leaf or gold paint is frequently used to adorn furniture, mirrors, and architectural details, adding a sense of luxury and extravagance.
- Rich Fabrics and Tapestries: The interiors of these dollhouses may feature miniature draperies, tapestries, and upholstery in sumptuous fabrics like velvet and silk.
Now, let’s look at a couple of examples of Baroque-style dollhouses:
- The Astolat Dollhouse Castle: This is one of the most famous and opulent dollhouses in the world. It was created by artisan Elaine Diehl and took over 13 years to complete.
The Astolat Dollhouse Castle is a masterpiece of Baroque design, featuring intricate woodwork, gilded details, and luxurious furnishings that evoke the grandeur of a royal palace.
- A Baroque dollhouse room box by Afriqbaja
Antique dollhouse style 7: Regency-Inspired Dollhouses
The Regency era in England, which spanned from 1811 to 1820, is known for its elegance, refinement, and neoclassical design influences.
Regency-inspired dollhouses capture the grace and sophistication of this historical period with their classical architectural elements, muted color palettes, and attention to detail.
Key features and characteristics of Regency-inspired dollhouses include:
- Neoclassical Architecture: Regency dollhouses often feature neoclassical design elements, such as columns, pilasters, and pediments, inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture.
- Symmetry and Balance: The layouts and proportions of these dollhouses are carefully balanced, reflecting the neoclassical emphasis on symmetry and order.
- Soft Color Palette: Soft, muted colors like pastel blues, pale pinks, and creams are commonly used for the exterior and interior of Regency-inspired dollhouses.
- Elegant Furnishings: The interiors are furnished with elegant and simple neoclassical furniture pieces, often made of light-colored woods like satinwood and mahogany.
Now, let’s look at an example of a Regency-inspired dollhouse:
Take a look at this video by Rachel Hoffman: A Life as a Doll in the Time of Jane Austen: A Visit to a Regency-Era English Dollhouse:
Regency-inspired dollhouses offer collectors and enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in the refined aesthetics of the Regency era.
Antique dollhouse style 8: Rococo Revival Dollhouses
The Rococo Revival style in architecture and design emerged in the 19th century as a revival of the earlier Rococo period, which was known for its ornate and whimsical aesthetics.
Rococo Revival-inspired dollhouses capture the essence of this elaborate and playful design with their intricate detailing, curvaceous forms, and romantic sensibility.
Key features and characteristics of Rococo Revival dollhouses include:
- Curvilinear Forms: Rococo Revival dollhouses often feature curving, sinuous lines, and asymmetrical shapes that are hallmarks of the Rococo style.
- Ornate Details: Elaborate carvings, intricate fretwork, and delicate scrolls are used extensively to adorn both the exteriors and interiors of these dollhouses.
- Pastel Color Palette: Soft pastel colors such as pale pinks, blues, and greens are commonly used for the exterior and interior finishes, creating a romantic and whimsical ambiance.
- Floral and Nature Motifs: Floral patterns and motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and shells, are frequently incorporated into the design of Rococo Revival dollhouses.
I could not really find examples of dollhouses from around this area, maybe you could have a look at these miniatures though:
Rococo Revival dollhouses evoke the charm and romance of the Rococo era, offering collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in the extravagant and fanciful world of 19th-century design.
Antique dollhouse style 9: Gothic Revival Dollhouses
The Gothic Revival style in architecture and design emerged in the 19th century as a revival of the earlier Gothic period, characterized by its pointed arches, intricate tracery, and medieval-inspired aesthetics.
Gothic Revival-inspired dollhouses capture the essence of this architectural style with their dramatic and ornate design elements.
Key features and characteristics of Gothic Revival dollhouses include:
- Pointed Arches: Gothic Revival dollhouses often feature pointed arches, both in architectural details and windows, which are a signature element of the Gothic style.
- Tracery and Fretwork: Intricate tracery patterns and fretwork are used to adorn the exteriors and interiors, adding a sense of delicacy and detail to these dollhouses.
- Tall Spires and Towers: These dollhouses may incorporate tall, slender spires and towers, resembling the steeples of Gothic cathedrals.
- Stained Glass Windows: Miniature stained glass windows, often featuring colorful and geometric designs, are a common feature in Gothic Revival dollhouses.
Now, let’s look at an example of a Gothic Revival-inspired dollhouse:
- The Thornhill Dollhouse: This is a dollhouse kit that captures the essence of the Gothic Revival style. It features pointed arches, intricate tracery, and tall spires reminiscent of Gothic architecture.
Gothic Revival dollhouses offer collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in the dramatic and ornate world of Gothic architecture. Their grandeur and attention to detail make them a captivating choice for those who appreciate the medieval-inspired design elements of the Gothic Revival period.
Antique dollhouse style 10: Dutch Cabinet Dollhouses
Dutch cabinet dollhouses, also known as “cabinet houses” or “cabinet dollhouses,” are unique and charming miniature creations that originated in the Netherlands during the 17th century.
These dollhouses are distinctive for their compact size and the way they are designed to be housed within a cabinet or cupboard. Dutch cabinet dollhouses are often considered some of the most precious and historically significant miniatures.
Key features and characteristics of Dutch Cabinet dollhouses include:
- Compact Size: Dutch cabinet dollhouses are typically small, often resembling a tall, narrow cupboard or cabinet. When closed, they can resemble an ordinary piece of furniture.
- Detailed Interiors: Despite their small size, Dutch cabinet dollhouses feature highly detailed interiors with miniature rooms, furnishings, and accessories. These interiors are often a snapshot of daily life during the time period in which they were created.
- Hidden Compartments: These dollhouses are known for their cleverly concealed compartments and drawers that reveal different scenes and rooms when opened. This element of surprise adds to their charm.
- Authentic Period Details: Dutch cabinet dollhouses are known for their authenticity, with furnishings and decor reflecting the style and fashion of the era in which they were made.
An example of a Dutch Cabinet dollhouse can be found in The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, which houses some of the most famous Dutch cabinet dollhouses, including the Petronella Oortman Dollhouse.
This exquisite cabinet dollhouse is a work of art and showcases the opulence of Dutch Golden Age interiors in the 17th century.
Antique dollhouse style 11: Asian-Inspired Dollhouses
Asian-inspired dollhouses draw inspiration from the rich and diverse cultures of Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and other countries in the region.
These miniature creations reflect the unique architectural styles, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural influences of Asia, offering a captivating glimpse into the beauty and heritage of the East.
Key features and characteristics of Asian-inspired dollhouses include:
- Architectural Diversity: Asian-inspired dollhouses can encompass a wide range of architectural styles, from the intricate wooden temples of Japan to the ornate courtyard houses of China and the minimalist Hanok-style homes of Korea.
- Traditional Materials: These dollhouses often incorporate traditional building materials such as wood, bamboo, paper, and clay, reflecting the sustainable and eco-friendly practices of Asian construction.
- Asian Decor and Furnishings: The interiors of Asian-inspired dollhouses are adorned with miniature Asian decor, including screens, tatami mats, shoji screens, and traditional furniture such as low tables and floor cushions.
- Gardens and Landscapes: Some Asian-inspired dollhouses feature miniature Zen gardens, bonsai trees, and meticulously crafted landscapes that are reminiscent of traditional Asian gardens.
Now, let’s look at an example of an Asian-inspired dollhouse:
Japanese Ryokan-Style Dollhouses:
These dollhouses capture the essence of a traditional Japanese Ryokan, or inn. They feature sliding shoji doors, tatami mat flooring, and miniature futons and tea sets, offering a serene and minimalist atmosphere.
Asian-inspired dollhouses offer collectors and enthusiasts an opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the diverse cultures and architectural traditions of Asia.
Antique dollhouse style 12: Shabby Shic dollhouses
Shabby Chic is a popular interior design style that originated in the 1980s and is characterized by its distressed and aged appearance, pastel color palettes, and vintage-inspired furnishings.
Shabby Chic dollhouses capture the essence of this romantic and nostalgic style, offering a charming and cozy miniature world with a timeworn, yet elegant, look.
Key features and characteristics of Shabby Chic dollhouses include:
- Distressed Finishes: Shabby Chic dollhouses often feature distressed and weathered finishes on both the exterior and interior, giving them a well-loved and aged appearance.
- Pastel Color Palette: Soft pastel colors, such as pale pinks, blues, and whites, are commonly used to create a light and airy ambiance reminiscent of vintage cottages.
- Vintage Furnishings: The interiors are furnished with vintage-inspired pieces, such as antique-style sofas, chipped-paint dressers, and floral upholstery.
- Floral and Cottage Decor: Floral patterns and cottage-style decor, including chintz fabrics and floral wallpaper, are frequently incorporated into the design to evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Now, let’s look at an example of a Shabby Chic dollhouse by Miss Diorama
Shabby Chic dollhouses evoke a sense of nostalgia and romanticism, offering collectors and enthusiasts a cozy and inviting miniature world that feels like a step back in time.
Related article: When were dollhouses invented?
My Final Conclusion
I hope that you liked this article on vintage and antique dollhouses and if you have any more questions about this article, please feel free to leave them down below in the comment section.
You can also follow me on one of my social media channels below if you like or my cozy Facebook group. See you there?
I wish you happy crafting!
Kind regards,
Lizzy
Hi everyone!
My name is Lizzy, and I am an amateur miniaturist obsessed with everything in the dollhouse and miniature world, ever since I was a teenager.
So far, I have created 2 dollhouse projects, a backyard shed and a miniature treehouse, tons of DIY dollhouse kits, and “hacked” some.
I also created a fairy garden, and lots of small and simple miniature projects on my YouTube channel. (mostly made from trash or everyday items).
I love to write as well about all things happening in the miniature world, hence the reason why I created this blog!
I wish you happy reading and crafting!
Lizzy
Hi Lizzy,
And once again, your interest in life are fascinating for many of us. I am a carpenter and I have made a couple doll houses and club houses for the Grand Ladies in my life.
I think it is so awesome that you have an interest in things like this. You help preserve them and keep them fresh in people’s minds all at the same time!
You must have an awesome soul wrapped around that beautiful heart of yours!
Keep it up,
G.Mack
wow G, this is so nice of you, thanks a lot!
Kind regards,
Lizzy
Hi Lizzy,
Excellent article! I found your exploration of vintage and antique dollhouses truly fascinating. The historical perspective you provided on these miniature marvels is enlightening. I’m curious, do you have a personal favorite among the top 12 you mentioned? It would be great to hear your insights on which one stands out to you the most
Hi Lizzy,
Your article is a captivating journey through the world of vintage and antique dollhouses. Your historical insights shed new light on these tiny architectural wonders. I’m genuinely intrigued: among the top 12 dollhouses you featured, do you have a personal favorite that you’d recommend for collectors or enthusiasts? Your expertise on this subject would be greatly appreciated
Hi Carl!
Thank you so much for the compliments and about my personal favorit: that’s a tough one haha. But if I really need to choose, I would say that I am intrigued by the simplicity of the Tudor style, and one day I would love to make my own Tudor dollhouse. I don’t know if I would be capable of making any Tudor dollhouse furniture though, but I have this old book on how to make a Tudor dollhouse, so I would ‘just’ need to follow instructions, we’ll see!
I wish you happy crafting!
Lizzy
This article is a captivating journey into the world of vintage and antique dollhouses, exploring 12 unique styles from Victorian to Georgian, Colonial to Art Deco. It’s a delightful read for collectors and anyone intrigued by these tiny treasures.
thank you Thabo!
Lizzy