Fashioning of our American Homes
The information contained within this post has been cited from the following printed source:
McAlester, V., McAlester, L., A Field Guide to American Houses, p. 5, Knopf Publishing, June 12, 1984
To purchase this book, please click here.
If you are a fan of architectural style as I am, you will find that the “American variety of homes are loosely modeled on one of four architectural tradition: Ancient Classical, Renaissance Classical, Medieval, and Modern.
The earliest style, Ancient Classical tradition, is based on the monuments of early Greece and Rome. The very closely related Renaissance Classical tradition stems from a return of interest in classicism during the period of the Italian Renaissance in the early 15th century. These two classical traditions , Ancient and Renaissance, share many of the same architectural details.
The Medieval tradition came between the two classic periods, and includes architecture based on the formal Gothic style used for church buildings in the Middle Ages. Medieval architecture most influencing American style came from houses originated in England and France.
The fourth tradition, the Modern movement, began in the late 19th century and is prevalent today. This style is primarily based on a lack of ornamentation which results in an external simplicity and spatial variation made possible by new and improved construction techniques.
Other traditions that have greatly influenced American houses are mostly Spanish in origin. Simple structures built during the Spanish Colonial era in the United States, as well as the more elaborate styles from Spain and Latin America, have inspired American home builders today.”
Next time you drive around Murfreesboro, be sure to notice the many styles and influences on the homes that make up our community; you may be surprised by the many unique “looks” we have about town!
Posted By:
Karen Boynton
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