Chapter 6 The Evolution of Exteriors
175
Classic Traditional Houses
As the early settlements flourished fl
and colonies and states were formed,
prosperity brought change and improve-
ment to housing. The quality of building
materials improved and the growth of
trade brought new information to the
settlers. Architects and house plans from
Europe became available. Growing pros-
perity fostered interest in refined taste fi
(cultivated and genteel) and classic style.
Classic traditional homes include the
following time periods and styles: Geor-
gian, Federal, Greek Revival, Southern
Colonial, and Victorian.
Georgian
The
Georgian
style (1690 to 1800) was
adapted from English architecture. It is
called Georgian because it was popular
during the era when Kings George I, II,
and III ruled England.
Georgian houses have simple exterior
lines, dignified appearances, and symme- fi
try. The centrally located front doors
have windows with small panes of glass,
and either gable or
hip
roofs—roofs with
sloping ends and sides. A flat area with a fl
balustrade, or railing sometimes tops hip e
roofs. This area is called a captain’s or
widow’s walk. Georgian houses usually
have a tall chimney at each end of the
roof, and most have some ornamenta-
tion under the eaves. A distinctive type
of eave ornamentation, known as dentil
molding, is still popular today. As a trim g g
board with square, toothlike blocks, this
ornamentation is sometimes mislabeled
as “dental” molding, 6-10.
As the Georgian style developed,
it became more elaborate. Additional
ornamentation was given to doors and
windows. The front door was often
highlighted with a decorative crown
over the top and flattened columns, or fl
pilasters, on each side. The style also
changed according to the region in
which it was built.
Wood was used in New England, and
stone in the Mid-Atlantic region. In the
South, brick was used and a wing was
added to each side of the main house.
Federal
Following the American Revolution
(1775 to 1783), interest grew in devel-
oping distinctly American styles and
symbols. National pride was strong
and Americans adopted a new style of
architecture that refl confidencefi flected
in their newly won independence. The
style was named in honor of the Federal
form of government in the United States.
Federal-style architecture became popu-
lar between 1780 and 1840. A house built
in the
Federal
style has a boxlike shape,
is symmetrical, and at least two stories
6-9
French Manor
houses are noted
for their stately
appearance and
Mansard roofs.
6-10
Georgian houses
have simple,
dignified lines with
ornamentation—or
dentil molding—
often found under
the eaves.