American Mansard or Second Empire Style

American Mansard or Second Empire Style

The American Mansard, also known as the Second Empire Style, is an architectural style that gained popularity in the United States during the mid-to-late nineteenth century. This style stands out due to its distinctive roof design and elegant proportions.

Key Features

• Mansard Roof: The signature feature of this style is the mansard roof, which is a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof characterized by two slopes on each of its sides. The lower slope is steeper and more visible, often punctuated by dormer windows.
• Dormer Windows: These windows project outward from the steep section of the mansard roof. They provide additional space, light, and ventilation to the attic areas.
• Natural Materials: Traditional construction often utilized wood, brick, or stone, maintaining an air of elegance and durability.
• Symmetrical Facade: Many Second Empire styles are distinguished by their symmetry, often featuring a balanced arrangement of windows and doors.
• Ornamentation: Decorative elements like brackets under the eaves, iron cresting on the roofline, and patterned slate or shingle roof surfaces contribute to the elaborate aesthetics.

Examples

1. Villard Houses in New York City, initially built between 1882 and 1885. This landmark epitomizes the Second Empire style with its articulated roof and ornate details.
2. Osgood Bradley Building in Worcester, Massachusetts, built in 1874. This building features multiple mansard-roofed sections and dormer windows, reflecting the architectural flavor of the era.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the American Mansard style?

The style takes its name and influence from the Mansard roof, named after the French architect François Mansart. The Second Empire designation originates from the French Second Empire period under Napoleon III, which greatly influenced American architecture during and after that time.

Why was the Second Empire style popular in 19th century America?

The style’s popularity during the Grant administration symbolized modernity and progressiveness. Additionally, mansard roofs allowed for expanded upper floors, making these homes both stylish and practical.

How can I identify a Second Empire style home today?

Look for the defining mansard roof with its steep lower slope and dormer windows, along with ornate detailing such as brackets, cornices, and often a symmetrical facade.

Related Terms

• Mansard Roof: A type of roof having two slopes on all sides, with the lower slope, steeper than the upper.
• Dormer Window: A window that projects vertically from a sloping roof.
• Hip Roof: A roof with all sides sloping downwards to the walls, usually with a fairly gentle slope.
• Brackets: Architectural elements, often made of wood or metal, providing structural or aesthetic support beneath overhangs or eaves.

Online Resources

• National Register of Historic Places: National Park Service
• Historic American Buildings Survey: Library of Congress

References

• Massengale, John; Dover, Victor (2014). Street Design: The Secret to Great Cities and Towns.
• McAlester, Virginia Savage (2015). A Field Guide to American Houses (Revised): The Definitive Guide to Identifying and Understanding America’s Domestic Architecture.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

• Whiffen, Marcus (1992). American Architecture since 1780: A Guide to the Styles.
• Blumenson, John J.-G. (1981). Identifying American Architecture: A Pictorial Guide to Styles and Terms, 1600-1945.
• Lanier, Gabrielle (2012). Everyday Architecture of the Mid-Atlantic.

Real Estate Basics: American Mansard or Second Empire Style Fundamentals Quiz