A Quick Lesson in Architectural Styles of WI
Prairie
This uniquely American style was influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright and other Midwestern architects who valued organic architecture. They have low, almost flat roofs, wide overhangs and several windows all in a line. They can be one or two story. It is also considered Arts and Crafts style.
Tudor
Tudor style homes have steep roofs and may have gables. They are mostly noted for their decorative timbering on the upper half of the house. Originally, this timbering showed religious symbols, such as “Y” or triangular shapes for the trinity.
Victorian
This style of architecture is named for Queen Victoria of England who ruled in the mid to late 1800’s. It was common practice to name the popular architectural styles of the time after the reigning monarch. Victorian homes have many gables, steep roofs. They may have turrets and covered porches. They have a very horizontal look. Most are two or even three stories tall.
Bungalow
The name comes from India, derived from the word “Bengali” or house in the Bengal style. Bungalows have low pitched roofs with gables and full or partial porches. The second level was normally built as a big attic space, but most have been converted to bedrooms, sitting rooms or full second floors. They are also called “Craftsman” style.
Cape Cod
The style originated on the East Coast in the 17th century. Cape cods are one and a half story homes with steep gabled roofs and dormer windows. Sometimes there are several dormer windows evenly spaced. The back half of the roof is often raised to give the second floor more space.
Contemporary Colonial
Dutch Colonial
The Colonial style became popular in the 1890’s as Americans wanted to celebrate their heritage. A traditional colonial style home has equal first and second floors and a lower pitched roof. The front door is usually in the center of the house and there are evenly spaced windows. A Saltbox colonial has very stark lines and little or no ornamentation. A Dutch colonial has a steep gambrel roof (like a barn) and may have dormers. The single story ranch is a derivative of traditional Colonials.
Posted by:
Barbara Bay
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