General Characteristics  
of  
Federal Style Architecture(1)
Structural Layout
  • Symmetry of earlier periods remains.
  • Early examples continue to possess Georgian rectangular and boxlike exteriors.
  • Horizontal rather than vertical lines.
  • Later examples utilize complex geometrical shapes.  Segmental and eliptical curves and octagonal projections popular.
  •  
    Decorative Ornament
  • Lightness and delicacy as opposed to the heaviness of the Georgian Style. 
  • Moldings and carvings executed in a low relief.
  • Geometrical features such as circles and ellipses or chains of husks.
  • Nature elements such as flowery designs. 
  •  
    Columns or Pilasters
  • Greatly attenuated.
  • Constructed thin and placed far apart to give light and airy quality.
  •  
    Doorway
  • Semi-elliptical fanlights are located above the door.
  • Sidelights run down both sides of the door.
  • Semi-circular relieving arch with a recessed window in it.
  • Domed, circular portico.
  •  
    Windows
  • Much narrower proportions than Georgian Colonial Style.
  • Louvered shutters.
  •  
    Roof
  • Hipped roofs with quiet lines.
  • Some roofs hidden behind a balustrade.
  •  
    Fireplaces
  • Extremely ornate. 
  • Delicately carved details.
  •  
    Chimneys
    Chimneys symmetrically placed on both ends of the house.
     
    Materials
    Bricks and wood are generally used.  Sometimes a combination of both is utilized.
     
     

     
     

    1.  William H. Pierson, American Buildings and Their Architects: Volume 1, The Colonial and Neoclassical Styles.  (New York: Oxford University Press, 1970), 215-228; Marcus Whiffen, American Architecture Since 1780: A Guide to the Styles (Cambridge: The MIT Press, 1992), 23-29.