Greek Revival is often called America’s first National Style, with examples built across the country between the 1820s and 1860s. The style was spread by published builder’s guides that contained Classical details, which builders copied. This boldly red example of the style has a typically strong emphasis on the wide corner pilasters and entablature at the eave line, which continues across the side elevations to form a pediment in the gable. The recessed door with surround replicating the pilasters and entablature on a smaller scale is also a common feature of the style.
Bright red is not a historically accurate color, although some Greek Revival houses were originally painted a more muted dark red made from iron oxide pigment. Although not historically accurate, the red and white certainly add a dash of drama to this house and highlight the bold trim elements nicely.
Understanding the style of a house is the essential first step in developing a restoration plan that prioritizes the preservation and restoration of character-defining features while making changes necessary for modern life in an old house.
Greek Revival is one of the 25 styles and types illustrated in Chapter 2 of “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
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© Scott T. Hanson 2024.
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