From Colonial To Victorian, Learn About The Key Elements Of Traditional-Style Architecture

Traditional architecture draws inspiration from the past. The Colonial style reigned supreme in the 18th century and has evolved over time. Greek Revival architecture became popular during the mid-19th century and was followed by the Victorian and Neoclassical periods, while the Cape Cod-style bungalow home was the answer to a post-World War II housing boom. All of these types of traditional-style home design can be found in the Washington, DC area. What's your favorite?

1. Colonial

Colonial architecture originated in the 1600's when Europeans were settling in the new American colonies. There are variations of original colonial architecture in different regions of the United States, but they all have certain features in common, such as symmetrical design, steep or gabled roofs, large chimneys, and double-hung, multi-paned windows. Colonial style homes are rectangular with a four-over-four design, meaning two rooms deep, two stories high and two rooms on either side of a staircase. Today, the term "colonial" usually refers to colonial revival architecture, typically in the Georgian style.

Georgian Colonial

Georgian Colonial architecture has a formal style and a square, symmetrical shape. Double-hung, multi-paned, shuttered windows are evenly spaced across the front of the home. A paneled front door is typically flanked by flattened columns and covered by a decorative pediment. The roofline has dental molding and often there are dormer windows jutting out. Georgian Colonial homes have brick or wood exteriors, depending upon the region of the country in which they are located. The interior of a Georgian Colonial is designed around a central entrance, hallway, and staircase, and this type of home has either two or three stories.

Federal Colonial

Federal Colonial architecture is also known as the Adams style. Like Georgian Colonial architecture, a Federal Colonial-style home is symmetrical and designed around a central hallway. However, the facade of a Federal-style home is more ornate with tall columns or pilasters surrounding the front door. An elliptical fan-shaped window or other ornamentation is directly over the door along with a decorative pediment. Embellishments such as swags and garlands, the use of geometric shapes such as ovals, circles, and hexagons, and a brick exterior are all hallmarks of the Federal style.

Dutch Colonial

A Dutch Colonial home shares similarities with other Colonial-style homes including symmetrical design, multi-paned windows, entries with decorative pediments, and brick or wood exteriors. But the distinguishing characteristic of a Dutch Colonial home is its broad Gambrel roof with end gables and flared eaves. This distinctive profile gives a Dutch Colonial the description of a "barn house." Often, a wide porch spans the front of the home, too. Original Dutch Colonial homes had a barn door at the entry to allow for airflow while keeping farm animals from coming indoors.

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2. Cape Cod

A Cape Cod home is a simple cottage that is one or two stories tall. It is characterized by a low profile and a steeply pitched roof with end gables. Cape Cod homes have a symmetrical appearance, shuttered windows on the first level, and dormers above. Wood shingles or clapboard are used for exterior siding. The interior is designed around a central hallway with equal space on either side. Newer Cape Cod-style homes often have porches with columns.

3. Greek Revival

Many Greek Revival homes are modeled after Greek temples, such as The Parthenon. This style of architecture features tall columns and pediments, a painted plaster or clapboard exterior, and a horizontal transom over the front door. Bold moldings and detailed embellishments exemplify the Greek Revival style, too.

4. Neoclassical 

Neoclassical architecture became popular in the early part of the 20th century, typically along the East Coast. This style was widely used in the design of institutional buildings and was adapted for residential architecture, too. Symmetry of form, very tall columns, and elaborate doorways are characteristics of the Neoclassical style. Shuttered windows are typically double-hung, divided into six or eight panes, and are evenly spaced across the home's facade.

5. Tudor

The Tudor style originates in England and has certain characteristics that offer a very distinctive look. The roof on a Tudor home is steeply pitched and has a main gable which is often paired with side or cross gables. The first story of a Tudor home is typically clad in stone or brick, while the upper floors feature decorative wood half-timbering. The windows are casement style with divided panes. Large chimneys are another distinguishing feature of Tudor architecture as is an embellished, covered front entrance.

6. Victorian

Victorian architecture also originated in England and is marked by flourishes and a great deal of ornamentation. The Victorian style features wrap-around porches, bay windows, steeply pitched roofs, fancy gables, octagonal or round towers and turrets with finials, and asymmetrical design. Victorian homes have a whimsical appearance, are decorated with intricate trimming, and often have brightly painted facades.

At Meridian Homes, we specialize in luxury remodeling and custom home building in the Washington, DC area. Our mission is to create exceptional residences that exceed expectations. Our highly personalized design process and careful management of every project have earned us a reputation over many years for outstanding client service and solid, beautiful craftsmanship. Contact us today to begin your custom home or remodeling project.