The American Front Porch Revival
There is no better place in America to share a story, have a cool drink or just watch the world go by than on the front porch. It’s the eyes and ears of the community. An architectural melting pot of sorts, the American Front Porch Revival is thought to be derived from the Greek Stoa, Italian Loggia, India Jor-bangla and Shotgun in West Africa. Most American style front porches are centered around 4 different designs – Farmhouse, Colonial, Bungalow and Queen Anne.
The Farmhouse
Farmhouse front porches are usually low to the ground with maybe a couple steps and sometimes wrapped around the home. If the front porch is elevated, a decorative lattice can be added. Farmhouse front porches typically provides shade and plenty of opportunity for relaxing and entertaining. Railings or trellises between porch posts are common farmhouse details. Some farmhouse porches are screened-in, allowing for virtually bug-free outdoor living and dining.
The Colonial Front Porch Revival
Colonial style porches typically feature several steps and can run the length of the home or just frame around the doorway. Colonial design styles are associated with the colonial period of the United States from about 1600 through the 19th century. Colonial architecture was influenced by techniques and styles from England, as well as traditions brought by settlers from other parts of Europe
Front Porch Revival of the Bungalow
Usually deep with large tapered columns. This style came about from the arts and crafts movement. Originally referred to as a small cottage, the “bungalow” is used to describe Mission style homes; Spanish Colonial style homes; Prairie style homes, Swiss Chalet style homes, Craftsman style homes, and others.
The Queen Anne
Known for its ornate beauty you can see the detail in every corner. Queen Anne styles were the most popular house style in the 1880’s. Front porches mainly consist of two subtype features: Spindle Work or The Free Classic. The Spindle work style is decorative with turned-wood columns and flat sawn balusters, gingerbread in between the columns that feature side and projecting brackets. The Free Classic subtype focuses on classically-inspired columns which are often paired and mounted on pedestals.
No matter what your American Front Porch Revival style, Cedarbrook has the best design and installation team to help you create memories. Call us today to schedule your consultation 301-703-8728.