american architecture

Greek Revival Style (1820-1850 2007

Greek Revival Style (1820-1850

To Thomas Jefferson , architecture was a form of visual education in support of democratic ideal . He was the patron who introduced Greek Revival architecture to the United States . The early republic then was much influenced by Roman architecture and governance . It is a fact that Roman architecture has its roots in ancient Greek architecture . Greek Revival being a product of HYPERLINK "http /en .wikipedia .org /wiki /Hellenism_ 28neoclassicism 29 " \o "Hellenism (neoclassicism " Hellenism may be looked upon as the last phase in

the development of HYPERLINK "http /en .wikipedia .org /wiki /Neoclassical_architecture " \o "Neoclassical architecture " Neoclassical architecture

Following the example of Thomas Jefferson , buildings were patterned after Greek temples . Although he intended for government and public buildings to emulate Greek temples , the style was so popular that it was used for many domestic buildings as well . Greek Revival became the dominant style of architecture from about 1820 to 1850 . It especially flourished in those areas of the country that were being rapidly settled during this period , and occurred in all areas of the country that were settled by 1860 . It was the first truly national style in the United States , found in all regions of the country . The popularity of the style was due to strong associations with classical tradition and democracy The Greek Revival was very adaptable and permeated all levels of building , from high to low

Its main elements consist of a wide band of trim beneath the cornice of the main roof and the porch roof , elaborate door surrounds , and columned porticos (porch with a roof supported by columns ) with either a triangular pediment or flat entablature . The cornice was usually simple and was constructed with or without dentil moldings . The use of stone brick and timber suggests weight and permanence , but also balance and . The proportions of Greek Revival buildings are usually broad Windows tend to be regularly placed , are usually square and rectangular with fan windows over the entryways . They usually have six panes of glass in each sash . Upper story window openings may be headed by flat stone lintels . The interiors are symmetrical as well , with detailed woodwork and baseboards . Details are sparse and simple

Typically using the wide friezes and porticos in its design , Greek Revivals often had low rooflines , columns , and pediments . Simpler home variations retain the rectangular shape with fewer embellishments Structures were routinely painted white to mimic a pure cut marble . It was not then known that the white marble of ancient Greek buildings had often been polychromed

During this period in America , the Greek ideals of democracy inspired many of the nation 's homeowners to erect their houses in this style Greek Revival homes are characterized by columns located in the entryway , a recessed entrance bed by small rectangular windows and usually boast a very linear and asymmetrical construction . They were usually painted white and flat , rectangular columns were adhered to the facade of the home if the owner...