Whenever history demanded a change in its patterns, it was eventually brought by those who sought it. In the mid 18th century, a similar art reform, the neoclassical movement, shaped the distinct branch of neo-classical architecture.
Whenever history demanded a change in its patterns, it was eventually brought by those who sought it. In the mid 18th century, a similar art reform, the neoclassical movement, shaped the distinct branch of neo-classical architecture. The joint contribution arising from the merger of architecture of classical antiquity, the Vitruvian Principles and the works of Italian Architect Andrea Palladio, laid the governing principles of this style.
The classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome are the primary sources of inspiration for this style. Each house possesses a prominent portico which rests on large columns. These columns are often constructed to the full height of the facade.
The resplendence is eminent in the scale of Neo-classical structure-but the geometric forms successfully retain their simplicity. There is a tendency of recurring blank walls, pronounced use of columns and extensive Greek (mainly Doric) and Roman detailing. The development of this vintage simplicity was the subtle response to the splashy Rococo Style.
The columned facade, gable-ended front porch and formal proportions make a Neo-Classical structure an eternal thing of unblemished, incomparable beauty. Though the presence of Greek and Roman architectural elements cannot be denied, yet this style possesses an altogether different charm of its own.
Key elements
- A Standard rule of proportion, called the Golden section which was established by ancient Greeks, is strictly adhered to while constructing a neo- classical structure. It brims with symmetry, form and balance all over.
- This style adopts the full height columns(up to the facade extent)ardently from the Greek (Doric) Order, ensuring that the columns are always even in number.
- Doorways are more often done with pediments in elevation view, along with providing decorative surrounds.
- The windows are uniformly located across the building facade and are usually supplemented by shutters. They have double hung sashes, more commonly employing six or eight panes.
