compound - Revival style homes are modern versions of the classic American colonial architecture popularized in the 17th and 18th centuries .
These home base are often characterized by their symmetrical façade , classic detail , and timeless collection .
They have become popular in late age for their traditional flavour and character , as well as their wide-eyed yet elegant design .
In this article
Brief history of Colonial-Revival style homes
The revitalization of pursuit in colonial architecture during the late 19th and early 20th 100 led to the development of the Colonial - Revival style .
This style was inspired by the salient New England compound computer architecture of the era , with its recognisable symmetry , simple lines , and graceful inside information .
The revival of this trend was largely take by the American Centennial Exposition of 1876 in Philadelphia , which have many salient colonial - vogue buildings .
The popularity of this style continue to produce in the early twentieth century , as architect and designers sought to come to the traditional look of American compound homes .
This was further spurred by the spread of the Colonial Revival movement , which ascertain the public embrace this Hellenic style of architecture . The movement climax in the formation of the Colonial Revival Association in 1918 .
The revival of interest in colonial architecture during the late 19th and former 20th centuries was also driven by a renewed grasp for traditional Americana and the nostalgia associated with this style of computer architecture . This opinion was further reinforced by the Great Depression , which saw many Americans turn to classic computer architecture for financial and worked up stability .
Characteristics of Colonial-Revival Style Homes
Symmetrical facades
Symmetrical facades are a hallmark of Colonial - Revival dash homes . The facades of these homes typically have centre entryways with flanking windowpane that are symmetrically balanced in size and shape .
This balance is further enhanced by the utilization of ornamental elements like shutters , columns , and pediments , which make a balanced and neat appearance .
Additionally , the use of brick , Edward Durell Stone , and wood siding in combination with these ornamental elements adds grain and profundity to the frontage .
Gabled or hipped roofs
Gabled or hipped roofs are another common feature of Colonial - Revival style homes . As opposed to the low - pitch roofs of traditional colonial homes , these homes typically have steeply pitched roofs with minimal overhang .
This allow the home to have a more New , updated look with a more spectacular show . Gabled roof are characterise by two sloping side that meet in the center , while hipped cap feature four slop sides that meet at the top .
Both of these roof types are generally made from either wood or metal and are often adorned with decorative element such as dormer and cupola . Bothtypes of roofsare designed to be exceedingly durable and are able to hold uttermost weather conditions .
Classical columns and pilasters
classic column and pilaster are a prominent feature of speech of Colonial - Revival trend abode . These element are heavily inspired by ancient Greek and Roman computer architecture and provide the home ’s frontage with a self-respectful , stately look .
The column and pilasters are typically made of wood or stone and may be painted or left in their natural nation . They are normally company by decorative elements such as balustrades , pediments , and molding which further raise their definitive visual aspect .
The columns and pilaster used in Colonial - Revival style homes are often used to tote up social structure and military capability to the facade . Flanking the entryway , these elements often help to define the space and take up tending to the centered entryway .
Additionally , they allow the home with a more dynamical and interesting smell , while also adding to the house ’s overall mother wit of balance and correspondence .
The classical pillar and pilaster of Colonial - Revival fashion homes are sure to make a timeless , graceful feeling that will stand the run of fourth dimension .
Multi-pane windows
Multi - pane window are a characteristic feature film of Colonial - Revival style homes . These window have two or more as - sized dot , often divided with muntins , which allow for more natural light to enter the home while provide extra insulation .
Thesewindows can be either exclusive or double - hungand are often arranged symmetrically in an esthetically pleasing and harmonious manner .
Additionally , multi - pane windows can arrive in many unlike shapes and size which can vary depending on the size of the window porta .
Multi - pane windows of Colonial - Revival stylus dwelling are usually made of either woodwind , alloy or vinyl and are designed to be highly undestroyable and energy - efficient .
Additionally , these windows can often be beautify with cosmetic elements such as grids , shutters , and frames to further heighten their look .
Typically , these windows are paint in a neutral white or off - whitened color and can often be sully with a wood finishing in Holy Order to create a more rustic appearance .
Central entrance
The fundamental entrance of a Colonial - Revival style home is typically characterized by a prominent front door , often accompanied with a decorative pediment or portico .
This grand entrance serves as a focal point for the home , drawing attention and creating an take in ambience . what is more , it function to receive visitors into the home and give them a sense of ravishment and surety .
The pediment or portico of a Colonial - Revival style dwelling house typically feature a variety of classic architectural element such as pillar , pilaster , and balustrades .
These elements help to determine the space , while also add a sentiency of gracefulness and elegance .
The entranceway room access itself is usually made of upstanding wood and may be invest with decorative feature of speech such as mould , carvings , and/or glass panels . The front door may also have a fanlight or running light to further increase the home base ’s gumption of brilliance .
Also commonly found at the key entrance of a Colonial - Revival style home are decorative accessary such as lantern , wreaths , and wooden signs .
These accessories can avail to complete the flavour of the menage ’s entering by adding a warm and inviting touch . to boot , they can also serve to further enhance the home ’s classic and timeless aesthetic .
Traditional materials
Traditional materials used in Colonial - Revival style plate typically admit brick , wood , or stone exteriors .
Brick is often used as the master material , providing a timeless look to the abode ’s façade . It is also a durable material that is capable to withstand the elements and maintain its knockout for years .
Wood is also commonly used for exterior surfaces , such as for the front porch , windows , and trim . In some cases , wood can be stained to make a more countrified cultivation , while also providing extra trade protection against the elements .
Stone can also be used to provide a classic and timeless take care to the home . It is a particularly democratic choice for the home ’s base , as it is able to provide a secure and unchanging base for the entire home .
Additionally , stone can also be used on the exteriorwalls of the home to provide more textureand visual interest .
Sub-Styles of Colonial-Revival Homes
Georgian Colonial Revival
This fashion of Colonial Revival home is known for its harmonious façade , featuring a central door with a bombastic pediment above it . The window are often double - hung , with shutter on each side . The roof is usually a hip or gable style .
Other features of this expressive style of home includeshuttered windowswith fan - mold decorations , dentil moulding , and cosmetic quoins at the corners of the menage . The ceiling personal credit line is also a common feature , with a box cornice and a fundamental cupola .
Inside the home , there are oftenhardwood floors , broad moldings , and a grand staircase . This style is often project in larger homes , usually with classic detail like high roof , big hearth , and refined chandeliers .
Dutch Colonial Revival
This style of Colonial Revival house has a distinctive roof conformation , boast two slope on each side of the ceiling , which creates a gambrel shape . The eaves of the roof are often flare up , and the cap itself typically boast ornamental bracket .
The wall of the firm may be covered in decorative shingles and clapboard siding . The windows are often double - hung , with shutter on each side . Another common feature of Dutch Colonial Revival home is a large central chimney .
Inside the home , feature of speech may include wide-cut moulding , hardwood floors , andfireplaces with decorative mantels . This elan is commonly envision in large abode , with Graeco-Roman details such as high ceilings , built - in cabinets , and graceful chandeliers .
Federal Colonial Revival
Federal Colonial Revival homes are characterized by their focus on simplicity and symmetry . The cap is typically pelvis or gable wall , with shuttered windows , and a boxwood pelmet . The wall are usually cover in weatherboarding siding , and the windows are often double - hung , with shutters on each side .
The decorative elements are often restrained , with plain moldings , and a central threshold with a pediment above it . Inside the home , the floor program is normally proportionate , with high cap , wide mould , and fireplaces with mantelpiece .
Thefireplace mantelsare often adorned with classical architectural details such as dentil molding and flute . Elegant chandeliers and build - in console may also be seen in larger plate .
Spanish Colonial Revival
Spanish Colonial Revival nursing home typically have stucco exterior , withred tile roofsand arched window . The walls are often painted in bright colors , and the window are often arched , with shutter on each side .
The doors are ordinarily large and ornate , and the roof is often a low - pitched hipped or gable roof . Inside the home plate , decorative elements include ornate moldings , colorful wallpaper , and hand - painted tiles .
Ceiling light beam and wrought atomic number 26 fixtures may also be seen . open fireplace are usually made of brick , with chimneypiece adorned with intricate carvings and arched gap . The floors are often made of terracotta tiles , and the overall figure is often symmetrical and refined .
Interior Design Elements of Colonial-Revival Homes
Traditional floor plans
Traditional floor plan of compound - revival plate typically feature a centre hall layout . This layout includes two formal life and dining rooms on either side of a idealistic hall or entranceway .
This is a common design element of colonial - revitalisation homes , as it is intended to create a sense of grandeur and formality . The formal living and dining room are often come apart by forked or pocket doors , permit them to be closed off or opened up as needed .
The center residence hall bring home the bacon a sense of symmetricalness and balance , while still earmark for a point of flexibility in how the space is used .
Additionally , many compound - resurgence home feature a staircase at the center of the hall , further enhancing the grandeur of the design .
Woodwork and moldings
Woodwork and mold are a defining feature of colonial - revival homes . Ornate pate moulding typically punctuate the cap , as well as the walls anddoor framesthroughout the habitation .
Wainscoting is also prevalent and is used to adorn the walls , often with intricate designs and theme .
Chair rail can be found run along the walls , adding further particular to the design scheme .
to boot , panelling and raised or beamedceilings may be used to comprise further detail and grain . The overall effect of these elements is to create a sense of grandeur and sophistication .
Fireplace
Fireplace is an crucial blueprint element in colonial - revival homes , serving as a focal point in the independent living area . Fireplaces often featuredecorative mantels , typically with ornate cutting and motive .
Mantels are ordinarily made of wood or marble , and may be further decorated with intricate crown moulding .
what is more , afireplace may be set up with a tilesurround , add up further texture and point to the design .
The manipulation of a mantel in a colonial - revival home serves to produce a sense of grandeur and sophistication , create a beautiful and inviting infinite .
Hardwood floors
Hardwood floors are a traditional knock down material used throughout colonial - revival meeting base . A definitive selection for these homes , hardwood floors typically boast an ornate radiation diagram , with intricate inlay or borders around the edges .
The outcome of this classic flooring is to make a good sense of grandeur and sophistry in the home base . Hardwood floors also offer a degree of flexibleness , as they can be refinished and defile in dissimilar colors to match the home ’s esthetical .
moreover , hardwood floors are long-lived and easy to maintain , do them an idealistic alternative for the colonial - revival home .
Landscaping and Outdoor Features of Colonial-Revival Homes
Formal gardens
Formal gardens are a signature characteristic of Colonial - Revival homes . With their proportionate bod and geometric patterns , these garden are design to convey a sense of order and looker .
They also act as a pleasing focal full point for the home ’s outside . Traditional Colonial - Revival gardens boast paved tract line with low hedges or borders of shrubs , often leading to a central sundial or fountain .
A smorgasbord of coloured blossom and plants are often constitute in bed that are centered around the central focal point . Floral and leafy design are arranged in a perfect balance to create a relax atmospheric state for the homeowner .
Additional features , such as trellises and gazebos , can be append to raise the formal garden ’s beaut .
Stone or brick walkways
Stone or brick walkways are another classifiable feature of Colonial - Revival nursing home . These pathways are often used to yoke domain of the property and ply an attractive entrance to the house .
Traditional materials such as flagstone , slating , brick , or bluestone are used to create a formal , symmetrical look for the entryway .
Widestone stepsor wind brick pathways can lead to the master entrance , and often large planters filled with colourful flower line the sides of the paseo .
This type of pathway can be used to create a beautiful transition from the open air to the interior of the home , create a welcome atmosphere for family and node .
Fencing
fence are an important factor of a Colonial - Revival home , offer both security department and an aesthetic look . The style of fencing used will often depend on the overall look of the home base , but two of the most populartypes of fencingfor colonial - revival domicile are scout fence and molded iron fences .
Picket fences are a Hellenic option , providing a simple yet charming facial expression for the home . Typically construct from Grant Wood or vinyl group , they feature equally space vertical boards with pointed tops , creating a neat , finished look . Picket fences are also a great option for maintain dearie in and undesirable visitors out .
molded iron fences bring home the bacon a more forward-looking look and are often used to circle large properties . These fence are made from metal and can be either painted or leave bare , depending on the homeowner ’s preference . molded smoothing iron fences are a great way to sum up both security and a spot of elegance to the abode .
The Popularity and Significance of Colonial-Revival Style Homes
Connection to American history
Colonial - revival style homes have a strong connection to American history , as they chew over the nation ’s pride in its compound past . These homes were first introduced in the late nineteenth C as a form of nostalgia for the rural area ’s colonial beginnings .
The revival of these nursing home designs was popularise by the Colonial Revival Movement , which was a chemical reaction to the rise of the industrial gyration and mass production of home .
Colonial - revival rest home are based on traditional compound - era American computer architecture , which was built during the 1600s and 1700s .
This elan of home is characterise by its simple lines , harmonious window dressing , and decorative details such as shutter , pillar , and gables . These features enkindle a horse sense of nostalgia for the past and a jubilation of the res publica ’s plenteous history and heritage .
Colonial - revival homes have become progressively popular in advanced clock time , as they provide a classical and timeless style of architecture .
These place are often seen as a symbol of superbia in the country ’s colonial past times and a reminder of what it means to be an American . Today , they are a popular pick for homebuyers looking to make a statement about their love for their nation ’s history .
Timeless appeal
The timeless appealingness of colonial - resurgence home base lies in their classical and timeless excogitation .
These homes are built using traditional compound - earned run average American architecture , with features such as simple-minded parentage , symmetrical facades , and decorative details such as shutter , columns , and William Clark Gable .
These features have remained popular over time and evoke a sentiency of nostalgia for the past and a celebration of the state ’s ample history and heritage .
Colonial - revival habitation also propose a unique style that is not seen in other forms of architecture . For example , they often boast a fundamental hall that allow for an open floor plan and a broad , airy DoI .
These homes also run to have two chimneys , one on either side of the home , adding a sensory faculty of grandeur and sophistication to the look and find . to boot , colonial - revival homes are often built with spacious porches , creating the perfect surroundings for outside entertaining .
The timeless appealingness of compound - revival home is also seen in their power to blend in with other architectural styles .
This allow for them to fit perfectly into a variety of neighborhoods , from historic colonial - earned run average streetscapes to advanced suburban developments . This can also provide an interesting dividing line that can give a house a unique and individual panache .
Adaptability
compound - revival homes are well - known for their adaptability . While staying true to their timeless and classic design , they can be easily conform to incorporate modern creature comforts . This have in mind that homeowners can delight the peach of the traditional architectural style while still having accession to the latest in modern conveniences .
For deterrent example , these home plate can incorporate modern technologies likecentral warming and air conditioning , as well as updated electric and plumbing systems . to boot , homeowners can also tot up modernistic luxuriousness such as granitecountertopsin the kitchen and update fixtures in the bathroom .
compound - revival home also have an advantage when it comes to decorating . While the traditional style of these homes can be a expectant backdrop for gaffer and family heirloom , they can also be updated with modern furniture and accoutrement . This allows homeowners to create a look that is uniquely their own , while still preserving the classical colonial - revival magical spell .
Conclusion
For many Americans , Colonial - Revival style family stage the perfect blend of traditional Americana and modern excogitation .
They pop the question a timeless appeal , classic details , and symmetrical façade that is sure to appeal to anyone looking for a dwelling house with a classical yet present-day facial expression .
With the regenerate appreciation for compound architecture , these home continue to originate in popularity , making them a desirable option for many today .
FAQs
What is a Colonial-Revival Style Home?
Colonial - Revival Style Homes are a form of resurgence computer architecture that celebrates the historical origins of the United States of America . These homes are inspired by the architecture that was democratic during the compound period of the U.S. and sport many decided characteristics such as symmetrical configuration , gabled roofs , large windows and doors , and a prominent front entry .
Where Can I Find Colonial-Revival Style Homes?
Colonial - Revival Style Homes can be found in many US cities and states that have an erstwhile , more traditional architecture . Many areas in the Northeast , such as Massachusetts , Connecticut , and New Hampshire , comprise many compound - style homes . to boot , these homes can often be found in older locality throughout the country .
What Are the Common Features of Colonial-Revival Style Homes?
Common features of colonial - revival style homes let in symmetrical bod , gabled roofs , large windows and doors , and a outstanding front entrance . to boot , these homes often feature dentil modeling , classical column , and cosmetic shutters .
Are Colonial-Revival Style Homes Energy Efficient?
Yes , compound - revival style dwelling are energy effective . Many of these home were construct to be energy efficient from the soil up , featuring high-pitched - quality insulation , DOE efficient window , and other energy - bring through features . to boot , modern renovations and update can also help make them more energy effective .
