French Eclectic (1915 – 1945)
French Eclectic homes combine a variety of influences from the architecture of France.
History:
After World War I, soldiers returning to the United States and Canada brought a keen interest in French housing styles. Building plan books and home magazines began to feature modest homes inspired by French building traditions. Grand homes were constructed with a fanciful mix of French details.
French Normandy House Style: Borrows ideas from Normandy, where barns were attached to the living quarters. Grain or ensilage was stored in a central turret. The Norman Cottage is a cozy and romantic style that features a small round tower topped by a cone-shaped roof. Other Normandy homes resemble miniature castles with arched doorways set in imposing towers.
French Provincial House Style: Tends to be square and symmetrical. They resemble small manor homes with massive hipped roofs and window shutters. Frequently, tall second floor windows break through the cornice. French Provincial homes do not have towers.
Features:
Brick, stone, or stucco siding
Hipped roof
Flared eaves
Dormers
Multi-paned windows
Some French style homes also have:
Decorative half-timbering
Round tower at entryway
Arched doorway
Next: Art Moderne
