When we look at the history of American architecture, we begin to notice a story being told of an ever-evolving country and the many cultures that are a part of it. Since the colonial era, American architecture has experienced transformations due to industrial advances, art revolutions, and a growing concern for the environment.
From about 1607 all the way to the 1800s (in some areas), the typical home in Colonial America was a cabin simple but sturdy. Wood was abundant and settlers could build their homes fairly quickly. The interior usually featured a one to three room layout and a large living space in the center of the home. This style of home was popular throughout the Atlantic coast as well as the western frontier.
Skip ahead to the 1700s, and we see the emergence of a home with a heavier European influence?the Georgian home. The defining features of these homes were red brick exteriors, double-hung windows and a symmetrical facade.
The 1800s was a time of constant change in the realm of architecture. From Greek and Gothic revival homes to folk Victorian homes styles, the industrial revolution granted builders the opportunity to construct homes with machine-cut wood and give simple cottages more elaborate, decorative exteriors.
The Arts and Crafts Movement started in England at the end of the 19th century and made its way to the U.S. This movement encouraged builders to construct homes using handcrafted materials from natural resources rather than machine-made materials. This style of home was therefore called the Craftsman Home. These simple homes typically featured a low-pitched roof and windows with vertical panes.
Â
Due to the post-war housing boom in the 50s, millions of cookie-cutter homes were built to accommodate the growing population. These homes were typically 1,100 square feet and $7,354 in price. You can still find many of these homes in neighborhoods across the country.
The 60s home styles gave way to built-in furniture, the 70s gave us floating staircases, and we don?t need to talk about the carpeted bathrooms and floral wallpapers of the 80s.
Â
Â
Â
Â
Finally, we arrive at the 90s/2000s?houses are bigger than ever. Fireplaces regain popularity, kitchens are enormous and walk-in closets are now a thing. Open floor plans have become increasingly popular, wood floors trump carpet and homes usually have two or more bathrooms. To sum it up?houses got bigger?way bigger.
Today people can construct homes that fit their taste and lifestyle, and they can do so in an environmentally-friendly way. Companies such as Arista Development help potential homeowners build energy efficient homes with unique design elements such as reclaimed wood paneling and exposed ventilation systems and exceptional construction standards.
We now have a variety of home styles in our country, and we all have the freedom to be unique in the way we choose to live.
