Colonial Revival 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 Revival house style remained popular until the mid-1950’s. Between World War I and II, Colonial Revival was the most popular historic revival house style in the United States.
Some architectural historians say that Colonial Revival is a Victorian style; others believe that the Colonial Revival style marked the end of the Victorian period in architecture. The Colonial Revival 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 Revival style became incorporated into the Foursquare and Bungalow house styles of the early 20th century.
Identifying Features:
- Symmetrical façade
- Rectangular
- 1-2 stories
- Brick or wood siding
- Simple, classical detailing
- Gable roof
- Pillars and columns
- Multi-pane, double-hung windows with shutters
- Dormers
- Temple-like entrance: porticos 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
Sources:
- Craven, Jackie. “Colonial Revival” . Picture Dictionary of House Styles in North America and Beyond About.com Guide. http://architecture.about.com/od/ periodsstyles/ig/House-Styles/colonial-revival-jpg.htm
Images:
- http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~twp/architecture/newphotos_Dec2004/ colonialrevival_branfordCT_1010127.JPG
- http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~twp/architecture/newphotos_Dec2004/ colonialrevival_manchesterCT_1010170.JPG
- http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~twp/architecture/ Georgia%202005/P6220158.JPG
- http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~twp/architecture/ Georgia%202005/P6220176.JPG