Italianate House Plans Historic

Italianate House Plans: A Historic Overview

Italianate architecture, a popular style in the United States from the 1840s to the 1880s, is characterized by its symmetrical façade, low-pitched roof, and wide eaves supported by brackets. Italianate houses often feature arched windows and doors, as well as decorative details such as quoins (cornerstones) and pediments (triangular gables). The Italianate style was inspired by the Renaissance architecture of Italy, and it was often used for grand public buildings as well as private homes. In the United States, Italianate houses were popular among the middle and upper classes, and they were often built in urban areas.

History of Italianate Architecture

Italianate architecture originated in Italy in the 15th century. The style was a reaction to the ornate and complex Gothic architecture that had been popular in the Middle Ages. Italianate architects sought to create a more classical and restrained style that was inspired by the architecture of ancient Rome. The Italianate style quickly spread throughout Europe, and it was eventually brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the 19th century. Italianate architecture was particularly popular in the United States during the Victorian era, and it was often used for churches, schools, and other public buildings.

Characteristics of Italianate House Plans

Italianate house plans are typically symmetrical, with a central entrance flanked by windows. The roof is usually low-pitched, and it is often supported by brackets. The eaves are wide, and they often feature decorative details such as dentils (small, evenly spaced blocks) or modillions (curved brackets). Italianate houses often have arched windows and doors. The windows are typically tall and narrow, and they are often topped with pediments. The doors are often double doors, and they are often flanked by columns or pilasters. The exterior of Italianate houses is often decorated with quoins and pediments. Quoins are cornerstones that are often made of a different material than the rest of the house. Pediments are triangular gables that are often located above windows or doors.

Italianate House Plans Today

Italianate house plans are still popular today, and they can be found in many different parts of the United States. Italianate houses are often praised for their classic beauty and their timeless appeal. If you are looking for a house plan that is both stylish and historic, then an Italianate house plan may be the perfect choice for you. Italianate house plans offer a variety of features that are sure to appeal to homeowners of all ages and lifestyles.