With British influence in America waning considerably after the War of 1812 and the nation rapidly expanding westward, the Greek Revival style was a fundamental expression of America’s triumphant sense of destiny. It also conveyed the idea that the newly formed nation was the spiritual successor to Greece, the birthplace of democracy. Americans’ sympathy and support for Greece’s war of independence from Turkey also contributed to this notion.
Greek Revival is an excellent example of an architectural style that gained popularity by exploring parallels between an earlier culture and the present day. It was popular from about 1825 to 1860 until the Civil War.
As temple-fronted facades on the nation’s churches, banks, town halls, and houses became increasingly prevalent, Greek Revival turned into the unofficial national style. Appropriate to the nation’s emerging sense of self, one of the country’s first Greek Revival buildings was the Second Bank of the United States, built in Philadelphia between 1819 and 1824.
The style moved West with the early settlers and acquired subtle regional differences along the way. Not surprisingly, the fastest growing regions ended up with the largest number of Greek Revival homes. Popular fascination with Greek Revival began to wane in the late 1800s as architects in the eastern U.S. explored other styles, such as Gothic and Italianate.
Features of the Greek Revival Style
Are you wondering whether a building you love in DC is in the Greek Revival style? Perhaps you think your home has elements of this historical architecture. Either way, learn more of the characteristics, materials, and features used in Greek Revival buildings so you know one when you see it.
Are you interested in learning more details about Greek Revival architecture? Check out more architecture terminology!
Greek Revival Remodeling in VA, MD & DC
The stately Greek Revival homes in the DC area have much to offer. You may be eager to update the materials, replace damaged features, or add to your living space. With help from Wentworth, you’ll gain a new appreciation for your home and improve your quality of life while staying true to the original architecture. Here are the Greek Revival home remodeling services we offer:
- Greek Revival home remodeling: What room do you wish to update? From bathrooms and kitchens to parlors and living rooms, we can add functionality and beauty to any room in your home.
- Greek Revival home additions: Perhaps you want more space to spread out, but you’re nervous about making an addition to your historic home. Rest assured that Wentworth will account for age, condition, and architectural style when formulating a design and performing the build.
- Greek Revival interior reconfigurations: Historic homes aren’t always built to today’s standards. Whether you want to knock down walls, relocate staircases, or repurpose wasted hallway space, we can make your living area work better for you.
- Custom Greek Revival detailing: The intricate details used in the Greek Revival style are undeniably beautiful. We have you covered if you need help restoring damaged columns or pilasters, adding crown molding, or replacing stair railings.
- Greek Revival interior design services: Selecting colors, furnishings, and accessories for a Greek Revival home isn’t always straightforward. Our interior design services tie your recent remodel together with genuine antiques or modern pieces meant to blend into the historical backdrop.
- Façade enhancements in the Greek Revival style: Does your home need a face-lift? Maybe it has a different exterior style, but you want it to resemble Greek Revival. Either way, the experienced craftsmen at Wentworth can go above and beyond your expectations when enhancing the façade.
Browse our portfolio for more home renovation ideas. Then, contact us to get your project started!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of damage to wood columns?
Water, insects, and excessive loading are the most significant reasons wood columns in Greek Revival homes fail over time. The wood may split or rot, causing structural concerns. Repair is essential to address the underlying damage and restore beauty and structural integrity to your home.
Can Wentworth recreate historic façade elements?
Yes! Our team can make it happen whether you want to restore or replace the cornices, column capitals, door surrounds, or other facade elements in the Greek Revival style. Our dedicated craftsmen are experts at restoration and recreation, depending on your home’s needs.
How long does it take to renovate a Greek Revival-style home?
The time frame depends on the age and condition of your home, the scope of the work, and any underlying structural issues that arise. Before breaking ground, our team will thoroughly assess your home’s condition and prepare a comprehensive report of the work required, including any preliminary repairs. With this information, we can provide an accurate timeline estimate for you to consider before you commit.
Is aging-in-place remodeling possible in a Greek Revival home?
Yes! The idea of aging in place is to make your home more accessible as you experience mobility changes that often come with age. Additions such as curbless showers and walk-in tubs, grab bars, comfort-height toilets, wider doorways, and other accessibility features make your home safer and more comfortable. We can even relocate your primary suite to the ground floor for easy access.
