Hamptons Classical Architecture
Classic Home Interior Design Architect in Hamptons
Brady Design is a full-service classic home interior design architect located in the Hamptons. Our firm specializes in creating traditional, classical-inspired architecture. Brady Design is founded by registered architect Brian P. Brady. Overall, our architecture firm was built upon the concept that architecture and interiors should work in tandem together in order to enhance their respective style, functionality and beauty. Our style is focused on enhancing these timeless details through the use of fine materials and textures. And we strive to create an understated elegance by using a thoughtful and sophisticated palette that wants to be lived in and enjoyed.
What Is Classical Architecture?
The most iconic classical constructs are the large stone temples, which were built on a foundation of symmetry and order and is characterized by symmetry, columns, rectangular windows, and marble, to name a few. As such, there is a longstanding tradition of architects looking back at this architectural history and reviving the values and ideals of the ancient world. Our firm prides itself on being a classical architecture firm as we have drawn influence from what has proceeded and used it to build upon in our work. If you are looking to design the interior of your Hamptons home in the style of classical architecture, then we are the architect for you! Contact us today to get a consultation.
Contact Us
When you reach out, we can provide you with a no obligation consultation to go over the classic home interior design project. As a full-service interior design architect in the Hamptons, we will be there for you every step of the way.
General Characteristics of Classical Architecture
Classical architecture encourages concepts like boldness, humility, and intellect. These general values help define individual components that can be found in several Classical architectural styles. Classical architecture sports some general characteristics. Here are 6 key elements that make up classical architecture:
- Symmetry and proportions: The number one overarching aspect of classical architecture is the use of symmetry. These spaces have elements like columns and evenly spaced windows all in the right proportions.
- Durable building materials: Classical architecture incorporates durable materials, which includes marble, concrete, and brick.
- Classical design motifs: The interior design of a classic homes usually has dentil molding, medium-pitched roofs, boxed eaves, decorative door surrounds, and broken pediments over the entry door. All areas of classical design motifs.
- Rectangular windows: The windows are often double-hung and include a variety of symmetrical window configurations.
- Front porch topped with a pediment: Many classically designed homes and buildings feature a full-height front porch set with a classical pediment at the top. The door is usually positioned at the center of the house.
- Columns in a specific style (or order): There are various classical orders to style the columns that harken back to ancient Greek or Roman times. Each column has unique heights, widths, and ornamentation.
Its History
Since we incorporate the style of classical architecture in our work, we have a keen sense of the overall history of the style, too. Classical architecture originated in Greece around the 5th century BC and in Rome around the 3rd century AD. Marcus Vitruvius, a Roman architect, laid down the fundamental principles of Classical architecture in his work. He created a treatise titled "On Architecture," which encompasses the history of ancient architecture and engineering, along with Vitruvius' own guidance on constructing buildings that embody strength, utility, and beauty.
The Classical architectural style has been revived numerous times throughout its history. During the Italian Renaissance, architects endeavored to revive the classical Roman architectural style. Then, centuries later in Europe, excavations in Pompeii reignited the architecture of ancient Greece. The corresponding architectural style became known as Greek Revival. Overall, this architecture is focused heavily on the Greek ideal of proportion and structural integrity.
Neoclassical is one of the most common types of classical architecture in the United States. Neoclassical architecture came in response to Baroque architecture and relied heavily on the design ideals of ancient Rome. The style originated in Europe in the 18th century and became iconic for many government buildings in Washington, DC.
Then there is Classical Revival, which is a style that came into fashion in the late 19th century and has a looser interpretation of classical ideals. The style exploded after the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. It is here where the buildings for the fair highlighted classical forms and inspired builders across the United States. Many homes, courthouses, banks, schools, and churches were built in this style in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Orders of Classical Architecture
There are five major orders in Classical architecture:
- Doric: The earliest Greek order, with a squat, slightly tapered column and no base.
- Ionic: A Greek order with narrower columns, scroll-like ornamentation, and a base. It features sculptural relief at the top.
- Corinthian: Considered the most elegant of Greek orders. It features ornate leaves and scrolls.
- Tuscan: Simple in design, this Roman order has a smooth shaft and simple top. It is similar to Doric, but plainer.
- Composite: This Roman order blends the Corinthian and Ionic styles so that the top has both floral ornamentation and scroll designs.