WHK3 Web Sites
 
Historic Buildings

Historic Architectural Styles

  Early Colonial 1620-1750
Sometimes referred to as "first period". Not really a specific style, but rather the form created by function by the earliest settlers. Typically, most had steep roofs and smaller windows.
Here are some examples that include English, Swedish, Dutch and German Colonial style homes.

Georgian 1725-1780
This style has strict symmetry, including windows aligned horizontally and vertically and paired chimneys. The central entrance often has a pediment with pilasters and a transom. Here are some examples that include English, Dutch and German Georgian style homes.

Federal 1780-1840
After the revolution, this was America's first national style. The symmetry of the Georgian style is retained but the central entries may now have a fanlight with flanking sidelights. The details become lighter, including mouldings, trim and mullions. Semi-circular or rectangular porticos are common. Some have a third level and many have a higher elevation above the ground than earlier styles. Here are some examples

Greek Revival 1820-1875
The gable end of this style is the facade and has (or the appearance of) massive pilasters or wide columns supporting a triangular pediment. Smooth, white exterior surfaces are often used to immitate cut marble construction. Here are some examples

Gothic Revival 1840-1875
This early Victorian style has steep pitched roofs with at least one cross gable. “Gingerbread” trim is common at gables and porches. Windows often have a peaked arches and some have leaded glass. Here are some examples

Italianate 1850-1890
These homes usually have a lower pitched roof with wide overhanging eaves. Large, decorative brackets are used below the eaves. Typically they have tall, narrow windows, some arched or curved above. Some have a square cupola or tower. Here are some examples

Second Empire 1860-1885
This style shares many of its details with the Italianate. The most significant feature is a mansard roof. Some have a square tower or turret and bay extensions. Dormer windows are common. Here are some examples

Stick Style 1860-1890
This late Victorian style has simulated timber frame boards usually framing stucco or clapboards. Wide overhangs with brackets and exposed rafter ends are common. many have porches and balconies with "gingerbread" trim. Here are some examples
 


Romanesque 1870-1900
Recessed, cavernous entryways and window openings topped with round arches are common. The exterior has rusticated stone or brick and rounded or square towers with conical roof. The exteriors surfaces are polychromatic with contrasting textures of building materials.Here are some examples

Queen Anne 1880-1910
These typically have steep, irregular shaped roofs with multiple gables and dormers. Some have towers and turrets. Several wall textures utilizing shingle, clapboards, brick & stone appear on exterior surfaces. There are usually multiple bays & porches. Here are some examples


Early 20th Century Style Links:

The American Foursquare

Ragtime Resources
A guide to Late-Victorian, Craftsman Style Bungalows and 20's & 30's Cottages.

Craftsman Perspective
This site showcases the beauty and diversity of Arts and Crafts architecture (1895-1920) and features a photo gallery of over 230 homes

Searsmodernhomes.com
From 1908–1940, Sears, Roebuck and Company sold more than 100,000 homes through their mail-order Modern Homes program.

American Bungalow Style
Describes the architectural movements reflected in these sometimes modest homes.



Top of Page
   
  If you have any suggestions or links, please e-mail us.
We cannot answer specific questions or reply with any technical advice. For specific questions, please consider contacting an expert listed on the Consultants Page
Featured Site Sponsor: