3
T
he study of architecture encompasses sen-
sitivity to design, skill in drawing techniques,
knowledge of construction, and awareness of
technological advancements. It is the combination
of these abilities that yields today’s outstanding
architects, designers, and builders. They design
and build the massive high-rise buildings, quaint
lakeshore cottages, modern churches, and family
homes required to meet the needs of our society.
Throughout civilization, architecture has
changed and adapted to people’s desires and
needs. This chapter explores the architectural
styles of the home, how they are infl uenced
by the past, how they are used in the present,
and how they will continue to infl uence our
environment in the future. See Figure  1-1.
An architectural style is a classifi cation of a
structure based on its appearance, the materials
used, structural and decorative details, building
techniques, and artistic expression.
Traditional Architectural
Styles
Over the centuries, numerous architectural
styles have been developed for residential con-
struction. Many were developed to suit the
climate and needs of families in various parts
of the country. Some styles became so popular
that they took on names related to their shape,
period of time, or the area of the country in
which they were designed and constructed.
Most American architectural styles have
evolved from the past. The Native Americans,
Objectives
After completing this chapter, you will be able to:
• Describe traditional architectural styles
used in the United States.
• Explain how social and cultural ideas
infl uence architecture.
• Explain the historical design infl uences on
today’s residential homes.
• Identify types of multifamily housing.
• Describe current trends in architecture.
Key Terms
adobe
apartment
architectural style
condominium
cooperative
Craftsman period
half-timbering
mail-order house
mansard roof
Modernism
multifamily housing
pattern books
period home
Postmodernism
Romanticism
townhouse
Victorian period
Architectural Styles
Chapter 1
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.