The Style Closely Follows the Neo-classical Georgian Architecture Style
Although they borrow from the Georgian's classic lines, Regency homes eschew ornamentation. They're symmetrical, two or three stories, and usually built in brick. Typically, they feature an octagonal window over the front door, one chimney at the side of the house, double-hung windows, and a hip roof. They've been built in the United States since the early 1800s
The Regency style of architecture refers primarily to buildings built in Britain during the period in the early 19th century when George IV was Prince Regent, and also to later buildings following the same style. The style corresponds to the Biedermeier style in the German-speaking lands, Federal style in the United States and to the French Empire style.
The style follows closely on from the neo-classical Georgian Style of architecture, adding an elegance and lightness of touch. Note that the Georgian style takes its name from the four Kings George of the period circa 1720–1840, including King George IV. Many buildings of the Regency style have a white painted stucco facade and an entryway to the main front door (usually coloured black) which is framed by two columns. Regency residences typically are built as terraces or crescents. Elegant wrought iron balconies and bow windows came into fashion as part of this style.
In the book, ' Regency Style' by Steven Parissien - The Regency architecture period ran from 1780 through 1837 and developed one of the best admired architecture and design still today. It merged influences of the the exotic, antique, and the technological originality of the era, to generate an eclectic style which was quintessentially British. This book is an examination of the Regency style, from architectural skeleton to the most intricate details of doors, windows, wallpapers and furniture. It takes a look at these great old houses that symbolized the pinnacle of the style, along with middle-class town house styles in both America and Britain. This is book which is most helpful to those engaged in both renovation and decor.
An instigator of this style was John Nash who designed the Regency terraces of Regent's Park and Regent Street in London. Excellent examples of Regency properties dominate Brighton and Hove in East Sussex; in particular in its Kemp Town and Brunswick (Hove) estates. In London itself there are many streets in the style in the areas around Victoria, Pimlico, Mayfair and other central districts. The town of Cheltenham in Gloucestershire also provides many fine examples of Regency architecture and makes the claim to be "the most complete regency town in England" . The Cheltenham Synagogue is judged by Nikolaus Pevsner to be one of the architecturally "best" non-Anglican ecclesiastical buildings in Britain. Good illustrations of the Regency style can also be seen in Royal Leamington Spa in Warwickshire, particularly in parts of The Parade, Clarendon Square and Landsdowne Circus.
The term Regency style is also applied to interior design of the period, typified by elegant furniture and vertically striped wallpaper, and to styles of clothing; for males, as typified by the dandy Beau Brummell, for women the Empire silhouette.
Suggested Home Styles Books
See also
|
