No design style is more intertwined with early America than Federal architecture, and it makes sense when you consider that this architectural movement saw its boom just after the American Revolution. From its beautifully symmetrical exteriors to the Roman-inspired flourishes and intricate details that characterize the interiors, Federal-style architecture is a testament to a pivotal period in our nation’s history. Whether you’re on the hunt for a Federal-style home or looking to bring some of its stately architectural elements into your existing space, here are the defining features to look out for.
Federal-style architecture was popular in the United States from 1780 to 1840. It’s credited to brothers and British architects Robert and James Adam, which is why it’s also known as Adam style. There are definite similarities between Federal and Georgian-style architecture, as Federal can be viewed as an evolution of the latter. However, Federal style was greatly influenced by the architecture of the Roman Empire. Federal architecture became popular in the United States after the American Revolution and therefore can be found along the East Coast from New England to the Southern states of Virginia and D.C.
Federal architecture was a popular style for schools, churches, and personal residences during its reign of popularity from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century.
Fashioned after Thomas Jefferson’s residence, Monticello, The University of Virginia was another project of Jefferson’s and thus appealed to his preference for Federal-style architecture.
While the Capitol building is an example of neoclassical architecture, the style pulls from both Federal and Greek Revival influences. The symmetrical, Roman-inspired architecture makes a grand statement with its Federal-style elements.
The Oval Office is yet another example of Federal-style design, which oftentimes featured oval, hexagonal, and circular rooms within a building.
Look for these defining exterior elements for setting the tone in Federal style.
Perhaps the most defining feature of a Federal-style exterior is the use of symmetry. The buildings themselves are typically two or three stories and rectangular or square in shape. They might feature chimneys on either side of the roof or have mirrored wings.
A crown over the front door or a small, ornate porch covering the entryway, and a fanlight and/or sidelights above the door are all characteristic of the emphasis placed on the entry of Federal-style homes. Dentils, moldings, and other design flourishes characterize the more ornate entry of Federal-style buildings, while the rest of the exterior would typically take a simpler approach.
While the windows throughout a Federal-style building are oriented to be both vertically and horizontally symmetrical, Palladian-style windows might be used in gables to add architectural interest. Federal-style buildings typically feature double-hung windows with six-over-six or nine-over-nine light configurations.
The low-pitched roof associated with Federal-style architecture might feature dormers to bring in light to an upper floor, side gables, or a hipped design with a balustrade.
Ovals and arches are some shapes you’ll see throughout Federal-style interiors. Whether incorporated in wall niches, ceilings, doorways, or even furnishings with round knob pulls, these decorative flourishes provide an element of interest that juxtaposes the more pared-down exterior.
The style had a bit of Roman-inspired flair, which is evident in the busts that became a defining feature of Federal-style interiors. Likewise, portraits were also common decor elements.
One unique aspect of Federal-style decor is that it varied from region to region due to the artisanal quality of the pieces. Painted furnishings were popular in the Northeast, whereas more intricate woodwork is often a hallmark of Southern Federal-style furnishings. Materials also differed based on the region, with brick being popular in the South and clapboard in the Northeastern states.
Federal style evolved from Colonial Georgian design and, therefore, features some overlap when you get down to the nitty-gritty design details. Federal-style architecture features narrower and less ornate columns than those of the Georgian style. While there’s plenty of overlap in areas such as symmetry, roof details, and classical influence, Federal architecture features more delicate and intricate details than Georgian architecture, which has a heavier, more Baroque influence.
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