House Styles in America: The Old-House Journal Guide to the Architecture of AmericanHomes

by James C. Massey, Shirley Maxwell

From saltboxes to split-levels, Victorian Ladies to Colonial Revivals, Prairie Styles, bungalows, and Moderns, these are the houses that have defined the architecture of a nation for the past three centuries. In House Styles in America, these classic examples illustrate the major movements that have shaped the American landscape. This beautifully illustrated tour of America's houses begins in 1640 with the early roots of American style--a combination of European skill and attitude combined with American know-how. This architectural journey continues on through the 18th and 19th centuries, through the Greek Revival, the Americanization of the Gothic Revival, and the early Colonial Revival. The houses of the 20th century are the main attraction as House Styles in America delves into the major movements in the Romantic Revivals of the 1920s and 1930 English, French, and Spanish. Replete with 200 color photographs, this architectural journey is an essential and beautiful guide for realtors, tourists, and students of architecture.

Genres: Architecture, Reference

262 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Sharon Barrow Wilfong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book on the various architectural styles throughout the history of America starting with colonial times to the present. Styles include: Roman and Greek Revival; Paladian, Georgian, Colonial, French Creole, to the twentieth century styles of Wright's Prairie Homes, French Creole, Arts and Crafts, Sears and Roebuck pre-fabricated homes and Art Deco.

Each style is thoroughly described accompanied by several examples of actual homes in large glossy, colored photographs. Anyone interested in the development and history of architectural as applied to living residences will enjoy this book.

[Natasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I only read some chapters I was interested in but personally I think the photographs need some updating.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing amount of information and many pictures!