In another time, this would have been the home of a successful entrepreneur or high ranking official. I can clearly visualize open horse-drawn carriages bringing guests to its front portico. This is an elegant formal home typical of the Federal Period (1780-1830).
Architecturally, it displays many of the features that characterized the style of this Period. Its hip-roof, pilaster corners, Palladian window, center door with sidelights and twin chimneys help establish its form, character and authenticity as a Federal design. One of the major design changes that occurred during this Period was a shift away from the central chimney and fireplaces. Prior to this, room layout and circulation worked around the central masonry mass. The removal of this mass, opened up the center of the house affording an unobstructed circulation path from front to rear and greater flexibility in room layout. In this plan, we have made the central hallway a key design element. It is graciously large and filled with natural light from the second story Palladian window. With open space overhead clear to the third level loft, it creates a dramatic entry into this home. As you enter, to the left and right are the formal living and dining room spaces, each with a fireplace. To the rear is the open eat-in kitchen and gathering room with another fireplace.
The second floor has three bedrooms and a master suite with a fireplace and the third level is multi-functional, providing additional bedroom space or office/study space. Although this home can stand alone with a correctly designed and sited garage, it looks and works best with the colonnade and porch that I have shown. This arrangement does several things. Visually, it extends the mass of the house laterally and gives it a better connection to the surrounding landscape. Functionally, it provides a covered space for outside activities and connection to the garage and it develops an enclosure for a private terraced courtyard off the dining room.
This home should be painted white with off-white trim and window sash and an accent color (Essex green works well) for the front entry door. The roof should be slate colored asphalt or sawn cedar and the chimneys should be done with used or antique style brick. The colonnade and porch should float on a flat plain of grass with off-white paint for the trim and pillars and brick paving for the floor.
FIRST FLOOR
Combined kitchen-gathering room with fireplace, living room with fireplace, formal dining room with fireplace and entry mudroom with half bath.
SECOND FLOOR
Bedrooms (#1, #2, #3), a full bath, laundry and master bedroom (#4) with a walk-in closet and full bath and fireplace.
THIRD FLOOR
Loft/study with guest bedroom space.
LIVING AREA
- First & Second Floors 3340 SQ. FT.
- Porch Colonnade 424 SQ. FT.
All Home Plans are fully customizable by our firm. Please Contact Classic Colonial Homes to discover the full range of architectural services that we have to offer our clients.