Craftsman style architecture was a huge hit in the early 1900s. The beautiful architectural style with unique craftsman trims and decorative exterior accents were a display of craftsman beauty, architectural diligence, and pure woodworking expertise. The craftsman style faded, however, because as beautiful as these architectural accents were, they became maintenance nightmares on the exterior due mainly to rotting. Beautifully crafted architectural details needed to be removed or redone in order to maintain the architectural integrity. Craftsman style homes eventually faded out and track homes took the limelight. Competition and affordability became hallmarks in the building and real estate industry to cater towards middle income families.
Lately, however, there’s been a reverse of the trend, especially with the 2008 housing recession in full gear. There are two reasons for this. First off, the current buyers market makes it difficult for plain houses to stick out anymore. This makes it easy for a homeowner to get a custom home or a house with upgrades and details at a stellar price. These houses are selling more now and track homes are sitting on the sidelines. Additionally, new low maintenance products on the market like PVC and composites have helped revive the craftsman style of architecture. Fabricators, manufacturers, and craftsman woodworkers have found better ways to develop architectural accents that are maintenance free. Because of this, architectural quality has returned and is continuing to make a comeback. The current housing recession is aiding in the return of the craftsman-style architecture by brining quality homes and upgraded details to an affordable price.
Window boxes are an example of the trend that is quickly returning. Brackets and functional shutters have also made a comeback. PVC has worked great for window boxes as a no rot alternative that is also water resistant. Many builders phased window boxes out of the architecture in the early 1900s because the water would rot the boxes out in as fast as little as three to five years. The quick rotting and maintenance jeopardized the reputations of the builders. Now, more builders are brining window boxes back, because they add architectural beauty and curb appeal and finally they are maintenance free. Anything that can get more potential home buyers to step foot inside has been the motto during this current recession. PVC has also been a huge hit for trim work and windows as well. There’s no better selling feature than to be able to ensure potential homebuyers that the quality that went into building the house is there to stay for a long time. With all these factors considered, expect to see a win for architecture in general as we move forward in 2008.
By: Matthew Buquoi
Posts Tagged ‘Architectural Accents’
Architectural Details Coming Back
January 9th, 2010Cupolas create a sense of Awe
November 7th, 2009ght (c) 2009 Elda Titus
Cupolas originated before the 19th Centruy and are dramatic architectural accents. With their prominent placement on the roof tops they have served both aesthetics and functionality by ventilation or providing a view. Being placed almost always in the middle of buildings giving the appearance of a little house. Many Victorian-era homes have a cupola the little structure that is perched on their rooftop.
Whatever ones interest in placing one on an existing building or building a vacation home by the water with a great view, a cupola may fit the bill. Cupolas have become popular in contemporary architecture, both for their looks and leisure-time function. To take advantage of a great view the rooftop room will give your home a unique, whimsical appeal. Invite the neighbors over to watch the stars through a telescope or having wine and cheese. Providing high-altitude solitude, to take advantage of gorgeous views many new homes feature windowed cupolas or open decks.
Turrets are structures that protrude above the roof but start lower than the roof, such as a medieval castle. This area was called a defensive position or gun turret. It may also have a circular top or a pointed roof. It might contain a staircase or it can be part of a room, which can be walked into.
Cupolas can be traced back to ancient Greek times. They were ornamental architectural accents which added to the look of the building.
In the 19th century cupolas were frequently used to observe the sea, or to add stateliness to a house. The aesthetic appeal is still big today. A room size windowed cupola can become a main attraction. By climbing a small stairway from inside the house the cupola is accessible and provides a 360 degree panoramic view of the countryside. The ultimate observation deck, they serve as a rooftop meditation room, a retreat for painting or star gazing, or a secluded place to read a book.
Cupolas can be built to look like an old one when one doesn’t want them to look like new construction. Cupolas have grown synonymous with quality and the craftsmanship makes them durable year after year, built of the finest weather resistant materials available.
The design of cupolas as well as the material they are built out of represents the character and personality of those that create them. Putting thought into your cupola design will leave viewers with a sense of awe and admiration the cupola was intended to inspire.
By: Elda Titus