A couple who decided to transform their semi-detached Victorian property have been praised for their “beautiful” renovation – but some social media users can’t get past one “offensive” detail
A couple nearing the end of their meticulous restoration of a 1901 semi-detached Victorian home have been lauded for their “beautiful” decor choices. However, a small aspect of their renovation has drawn criticism for marring the otherwise sympathetic and traditional aesthetic.
Tackling a home renovation is no mean feat; it’s often expensive, disruptive, and laborious. Yet, once the dust settles, the fruits of such labour are usually worth it, providing a stunning, safe haven that perfectly suits the owner’s tastes.
While some proud homeowners take to social media to share their home refurbishment, others prefer to watch these transformations from afar, in the comfort of a dust-free environment.
The pair behind @a. victorian.semi have shared their home renovation journey on TikTok, attracting a number of views thanks to their step-by-step process.
They’ve managed to retain original features like the classic Minton floor tiles in the entrance hall, while also updating the property to be more energy-efficient, all without sacrificing its inherent period charm.
In a recent post on the video-sharing platform, they offered followers an updated house tour, revealing six completed rooms with just two left to finish. The caption of the video read: “Updated house tour! 6 rooms completed; 2 to go”, followed by a rundown of the specific paint colours and brands they’ve chosen for each room.
The calming palette of blues and neutrals in the ground floor space generates an ambience that feels fresh, crisp and inviting.
Across the dwelling, there are numerous nods to the home’s Victorian roots through ornate fireplaces and period wall panelling, expertly merged with contemporary touches like bold statement artwork and signage.
Yet, one particular element has sparked quite the debate amongst interior design fans on TikTok. Positioned at the far end of the kitchen sits a handy downstairs loo, distinguished by a bold black and white plaque declaring ‘the shi**er’.
In the comments beneath the clip, one observer penned: “Everything was absolutely perfect except the toilet door sign”.
The original content creators and property owners hit back with: “Not everything is to everyone’s taste! We love it”.
Another remark stated: “Your house is stunning I don’t like that loo sign tho”.
However, another TikTok user seemed baffled by the fierce backlash over the signage. They commented: “People so pressed over a toilet sign”.
Other social media viewers found the cheeky lavatory label rather entertaining. One fan remarked: “Well done, it’s beautiful, still laughing at the sign above the toilet door downstairs”.
Praise for the property extended well beyond the divisive door decoration. One TikTok user gushed: “Beautiful home”.
Fellow users voiced their appreciation, with remarks including: “Beautiful and very tasteful” and: “What a fabulous transformation well done!”
Another user heaped on the accolades, exclaiming: “Absolutely beautiful! A renovation done sympathetically and well! Best I’ve seen!”