BY ANÍBAL RODRÍGUEZ AND MEGAN SAPELAK
Throughout the years we have seen a great many styles of architecture flourish in our community. We highlighted a few of our favorite architectural styles and showcase not only the houses themselves, but also some of the furniture and accessories that complement their home. Next time you are cruising around Alachua County, make note of some of the amazing architectural designs.
COLONIAL
ORIGIN: EASTERN U.S.
DATE: 1876
Most commonly found on the East coast and relying heavily on symmetry, colonial architecture are often recognized by their iconic evenly spaced shuttered windows. They are usually rectangular shaped and have either two or three stories with facades made of brick or wood. Additional elements such as dormers, columns and chimneys are also evenly proportioned to further enhance the formal design.
Features:
- Five windows on the second floor
- One window above the entry door
- Two windows on each side of the door
- Brick and wood siding
- Medium-pitched roof
Relive the nostalgia of the 19th-century with a clawfoot tub, adding a touch of luxury to any bathroom.
Windsor chairs are perfectly suited for kitchens and dining rooms. They are built with quality in mind, with meticulous construction and finish.
MID CENTURY
ORIGIN: UNITED STATES
DATE: 1945 – 1980
Emerging out of new construction principles and modern ideologies , mid century modern architecture gained popularity from 1945 to the 1980s. Known for features such as flat planes, large glass window areas and lots of open space, the modern movement focused on clean simple design. The end of World War II brought the availability of many new materials to architects and designers alike, changing forever the way we look at residential living.
Features:
- Sliding glass doors
- Transom windows
- Flat and gabled roof
Commonly known as the “Coconut Chair” due to its coconut shell shape, George Nelson’s iconic lounge chair is a testament to mid century design with its beautiful curves throughout and shallow sides perfect for sitting comfortably.
Affectionately called the “smiling chair,” Hans Wegner’s Shell Chair has a wing-like seat design with arching legs that give it an airiness great for any room in a modern home.
When it comes to lighting, think of those iconic styles of the 1940s through the 1960s with relatively simple designs and sleek lines.
VICTORIAN
ORIGIN: ENGLAND/FRANCE
DATE: 1870-1910
Victorian homes are well-known for having elaborate architectural elements and detailed design. Emerging popular during the reign of Queen Victoria, the design of these homes was meant to promote beauty more so than placing focus on functionality. These homes are easily recognizable by their asymmetry, partial or full porches, cylindrical towers or turrets and patterned shingles.
Features:
- Patterned shingles
- Wrap-around porch
- Stained-glass windows
- Ornate trim
- Cylindrical towers
Gas lights such as chandeliers can be found in common areas of the home including foyers and dining rooms.
To mirror the outside design, Victorian homes maintain ornate patterns through out the interior, which includes elaborate carpeting.
Interior furniture is made out of dark, stained wood. Detailed designs are constructed into the legs of dressers, tables and chairs.
CONTEMPORARY
ORIGIN: UNITED STATES
DATE: 1970s – PRESENT DAY
As the most recent trend in architectural design, contemporary homes vary, but are usually defined by their sharp, geometric edges and simplicity. These 21st-centrury homes feature large floor-to-ceiling glass windows to create more natural lighting and rooms are perfectly suited for hosting with large, open floor plans. Contemporary homes are ever evolving to reflect the trends of the time period in which they are built.
Features:
- Large glass windows
- Sharp, geometric angles and shapes
- Simple exterior
- Open floor plans
Interior features are lighter and more neutral in color. Granite and marble are common choices for countertop options.
With the rise in popularity of home stores such as IKEA, light-weight, self-assemble, simplistic tables, shelving and bedroom furniture is currently all the rage.
Theatre sofas have a sleek, sophisticated design, complete with a steel base and minimal cushion stuffing.
CRAFTSMAN
ORIGIN: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
DATE: 1905 – 1930
The craftsman style, with its timeless curb appeal and character, originated as a direct reaction to the ornate look of the Victorian aesthetic. Closely associated with the arts and crafts movement dedicated to reconnecting with the ideals and quality of medieval craftsmanship, this new style quickly became beloved by many for its charming simplicity and custom details throughout the whole home. Many examples of these homes cans still be seen today and are referred to by many as bungalows.
Features:
- Low pitched roof
- Wide overhanging eaves
- Exposed roof rafters
- Full or partial porches framed by tapered columns
Dating all the way back to the late 1800s, Tiffany style lamps are a perfect fit for any craftsman home with their exquisite craftsmanship and timeless charm.
Furniture with clean lines such as the popular mission style are perfect pieces to complement any crafstman home decor.
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