American Architecture Basics

Some info on classic architecture in America...

Pitch: steepness of roof
Roof Shape: gable-ended, hipped, mansard
Eave lines: edge of roof. Ex) classical dentilation, Greek revival entablature, and Italianate Brackets

Classical Columns: to identify these different types look at the top of the column and look for there specific characteristics
Doric- looks like a large ring around top
Ionic-rams horns
Corinthian(rare)-Leafs

Types of Foundations:
Coursed rubble stone
Cut stone
Rustic cut

Brick Bond:
Running Bond
Common Bond
English Bond
Flemish Bond



Popular styles and periods


Colonial: Simple, small windows, steep pitch
prior to 1700

Georgian: Steep pitch, hipped roof, symmetry
1700-1781

Federal: Roman influence, domes, less renaissance ornament
1781-1820

Greek Revival: Temple shape, low pitch, gable-ended roof, entablature
1820-1860
under eaves, sometimes columns

Gothic Revival: Steep pitch, dormers, ornamental "tracery"
1840-1870


Italianate: Rounded arches, low pitched hipped roof, brackets under
1850-1880 eave, tall ceilings, cube shape

Mansard:
1865-1880

Romanesque: Large stone/brick, heavy arches
1870-1890

Queen Anne: "Victorian" towers, gables, flexible decorative style,
1880-1900 "gingerbread"ornament, verandas, stained glass windows, steep roof

Cottage Styles:
1900-1930

California Bungalow Long low roof line, natural materials-stone, stucco,
shingles
English Cottage (Tudor)

Colonial Revival Gambrel roof (barn roof)


Chicago Style:
1895-1920


Ranch Style:
1950-1980