What Style is Your House: Greek Revival

Courtesy of Worcester Heritage Preservation Society

Starting in the 1820s, America became fascinated with all things Greek.  We identified with the democratic ideals of ancient Greece.  New towns were named after Greek cities like Troy, Ithaca, and Athens.  The classic lines and proportions of Greek temples inspired architects who adapted their features for homes, stores and public buildings.

The Greek Revival style quickly became popular throughout the country.  Compare it with other styles and you will see that the Greek Revival is rather plain and unadorned.  Except for columns, you will rarely find any curved shapes.  Most Greek Revival homes have clapboards painted white to imitate the stone of Greek temples.  Most prominent is the pediment – the triangular gable spanning the façade.  Sometimes you can find pediments above doors and windows too.  Look for a wide horizontal band underneath the pediment that may continue all the way around the house.

Greek Revival houses are usually rectangular, with the gable side facing the street.  Windows are usually double hung and have six panes on each sash.  The front door is located on one side with sidelights and a rectangular transom over the door.  Many houses have portions (a covered entry porch) supported by columns and topped with a pediment.  The Greek Revival style remained popular from the 1820s to the 1860s.