Colonial-Revival style homes are among the most popular and enduring examples of American architecture. They are inspired by the colonial period of American history, when settlers from various European countries built simple, practical, and symmetrical houses. However, Colonial-Revival style homes are not exact replicas of colonial-era homes. They are influenced by the changes in technology, lifestyle, and taste that occurred over time. Colonial-Revival style homes emerged in the late 19th century, after the 1876 Centennial Exposition, which sparked a renewed interest in the country’s architectural heritage. They reached their peak in the 1940s, but have never gone out of fashion. Today, many new homes are built in the Colonial-Revival style or incorporate some of its elements.
What Makes a Colonial-Revival Style Home?
Colonial-Revival style homes are characterized by a mix of features from different colonial styles, such as British, Dutch, French, and Spanish. They also borrow some elements from Victorian, Italianate, and Greek Revival styles, which were popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Some of the common features of Colonial-Revival style homes are:
- A rectangular or square shape with a symmetrical facade
- A central entrance with a portico, pediment, columns, or pillars
- A side-gabled, gambrel, or hip roof with dormers or chimneys
- Double-hung windows with shutters or multi-pane glazing
- Clapboard, brick, stone, or shingle siding
- Decorative details such as moldings, cornices, dentils, or quoins
Colonial-Revival style homes can vary in size and complexity, depending on the region, budget, and preference of the builder or owner. Some are modest and cozy, while others are grand and elegant. Some are faithful to the original colonial styles, while others are more eclectic and creative. No matter what their variations are, Colonial-Revival style homes share a common appeal: they evoke a sense of tradition, history, and nostalgia for a simpler time.
Examples of Colonial-Revival Style Homes
Colonial-Revival style homes can be found all over the United States, reflecting the diversity and richness of the country’s architectural heritage. Here are some examples of famous or notable Colonial-Revival style homes:
- The White House: The official residence and workplace of the president of the United States is one of the most iconic examples of Colonial-Revival style architecture. It was originally built in the late 18th century in the Georgian style, but underwent several renovations and expansions over the years. The most significant changes were made in the early 20th century by architects McKim, Mead & White, who added the porticoes, columns, and balustrades that give the White House its distinctive appearance today.
- Mount Vernon: The home of George Washington, the first president of the United States, is another example of Colonial-Revival style architecture. It was originally built in the mid-18th century in the Palladian style, but was enlarged and modified by Washington himself over several decades. In the late 19th century, it was restored and preserved by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, who added some Colonial-Revival features such as dormers and shutters.
- Monticello: The home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and one of the founding fathers, is a unique example of Colonial-Revival style architecture. It was designed and built by Jefferson himself in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, incorporating elements from various classical styles such as Roman, French, and Italian. It also features some innovative features such as skylights, dumbwaiters, and a clock that tells the day of the week. In the early 20th century, it was restored and maintained by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, who added some Colonial-Revival features such as a portico and a balustrade.
