Custom Homes - The Colonial Home Style
Colonial became a popular American house style after it appeared at the 1876 the US Centennial Exposition.
Reflecting American patriotism and a desire for simplicity, the Colonial house style remained popular until the mid-1950's. Between World War I and II, Colonial was the most popular historic revival house style in the United States.
Some architectural historians say that Colonial is a Victorian style; others believe that the Colonial style marked the end of the Victorian period in architecture. The Colonial style is based loosely on Federal and Georgian house styles, and a clear reaction against excessively elaborate Victorian Queen Anne architecture. Eventually, the simple, symmetrical Colonial style became incorporated into the Foursquare and Bungalow house styles of the early 20th century.
Colonial houses have many of these features:
- Symmetrical façade
- Rectangular
- 2 to 3 stories
- Brick or wood siding
- Simple, classical detailing
- Gable roof
- Pillars and columns
- Multi-pane, double-hung windows with shutters
- Dormers
- Temple-like entrance: portico topped by pediment
- Paneled doors with sidelights and topped with rectangular transoms or fanlights
- Center entry-hall floor plan
- Living areas on the first floor and bedrooms on the upper floors
- Fireplaces
