Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Little Lessons in Architecture: The American Four Square

After your responses on my post on the Behemoth's architecture I thought I'd start a little series to help you identify different architecture series.

I'm not trying to get preachy about architecture but I'll tell you, people are usually pretty impressed when you can point out architecture styles. And once you know which house is what it's easy to keep them straight.

Today's featured style is the American Four Square, which is what the Behemoth is.

The American Four Square is a style of house that was popular between 1890-1930.

The easiest way to distinguish a Four Square is it's large, boxy style. They were built with this shape to utilize as much of their city lots as possible.

A Four Square is literally a box, it's simple style is why I commonly refer to the Behemoth as "just a four square."

The Behemoth incorporates many of the standard Four Square features.

The interior of a Four Square is categorized by four major rooms on both floors. Kitchen, dining room, living room & foyer on the first floor with four bedrooms on the second floor. Bathrooms, closets & stairwells take additional space but the inside is dominated by the main rooms.

So there you have it, the American Four Square, next time you're driving down the street and see a big, boxy house you'll be able to smile, point and say Four Square!

9 comments:

Aubrey S. said...

It's really cool that you're sharing and educating us on one of your interests.

rachelinaustin said...

Very cool! I'll have to throw that term around next time I hang out with my architect brother in law. ;)

Katie Baba Nielson said...

definitely did not know this, but this it my fav style of home! exactly what i hope we can buy one day down the road. love your home!

steph c said...

This is super interesting.. keep it going! It's awesome how much you know about architecture!

Krysten @ Why Girls Are Weird said...

Very cool, I love interesting architecture.

Jenny said...

so very cool, great to learn new things :)

Jessica said...

Hmm, interesting! I never knew that's what these style homes were called

Deidre said...

It's funny because I would much rather have a slightly smaller house and a much bigger yard!

Lauryn said...

This is a great subject to blog about because most of us are probably clueless when it comes to architecture. I have always loved this particular style of homes! Especially on cozy little downtown streets.