A lovely house in Maine with a fabulous octagonal tower that blends elements of the Italianate and Queen Anne styles likely inspired by a design in “Shoppell’s Modern Houses” published in 1887 (see illustration reproduced below).
Most of the detailing on this example is Italianate in character, but the form of the house leans toward the Queen Anne with character-defining features of the style, including the tower and wrap-around porch. The multi-light sash with colored glass in the tower and gable are also typical Queen Anne features. Many houses exhibit features from more than one architectural style. Some were built this way, often at a time when the popularity of one style was giving way to a new style. Others were updated in a different style long ago but after their original construction. In either case, the mixed stylistic features are part of the history and character of the house.
Understanding the style of a house is essential in developing a restoration plan that prioritizes the preservation of character-defining features while accommodating modern life in an old house.
Twenty-five styles and types are described and illustrated in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available from the author at YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/ and through the shop on this page.
Our shop also carries select preservation and restoration titles by other authors, including Virginia Savage’s classic “A Field Guide to American Houses.” Save on cost and shipping with our multi-book combo packs!
#antiquehome #antiquehomes #traditionalarchitecture #historicalhomes #historicalhouse #historic #oldhousecharm #oldhome #oldhouse #preservation #preserveourhistory #characterdefining #aplacetocallhome #homerestoration #houserestoration #italianate #vintagehome #architecturelover #restoringyourhistorichouse #yourhistorichome #restoration #houserehab #historicpreservation #queenannestyle