What is Williamsburg Georgian or Early Georgian?
Williamsburg Georgian or Early Georgian refers to an architectural style that became prominent in the early 1700s in America, particularly in the town of Williamsburg, Virginia. Modeled after the Georgian architecture prevalent in England during the reigns of King George I and II, these houses are known for their restrained and symmetrical design. They often exhibit simple exterior lines and a practical layout, differing from later, more ornate Georgian styles.
Key Characteristics
- Symmetry: Typical Williamsburg Georgian houses are symmetrical, often with a central door flanked by an equal number of windows on each side.
- Rectangular Form: The houses are mostly rectangular, commonly featuring two or three stories.
- Brick Construction: These buildings often used brick as the primary material, with minimal woodwork.
- Roof Design: The roofs are usually gabled or hipped, with large chimneys at either end.
- Decorative Simplicity: While later Georgian houses are known for heavy ornamental detail, Williamsburg Georgians are relatively plain, focusing on modest decorative touches.
Examples
- Raleigh Tavern: Located in Colonial Williamsburg, Raleigh Tavern is a prime example of early Georgian architecture, embodying the symmetrical and understated design typical of that period.
- Bruton Parish Church: Also found in Williamsburg, this church maintains the hallmark brick construction and clean lines of the Williamsburg Georgian style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Williamsburg Georgian from other phases of Georgian architecture?
Williamsburg Georgian houses differ from later Georgian styles mainly through their simplicity and restrained decoration. They feature straightforward, elegant designs that lack the more elaborate architectural details seen in late Georgian buildings.
Where are Williamsburg Georgian houses typically found?
These houses are mostly found in Williamsburg, Virginia, but also appear in other colonial towns along the eastern seaboard of the United States.
Why are there two chimneys in Williamsburg Georgian houses?
Two large chimneys are often placed at either end of these houses to serve multiple fireplaces and provide a symmetry that reinforces the balanced design of the architecture.
Are the interiors of Williamsburg Georgian houses equally simple?
Yes, the interiors tend to reflect the same balanced and practical nature seen on the exterior, with symmetrical room layouts and minimal ornamentation focusing on functionality.
Related Terms
- Georgian Architecture: A broader term for architecture styles hailing from the reigns of King George I-IV, characterized by symmetry and proportion based on classical architecture.
- Colonial Architecture: Architectural styles that developed during the colonization period of the United States, encompassing a variety of influences, including Georgian.
- Symmetrical Design: A hallmark of Georgian architecture, focusing on balanced and evenly spaced elements.
Online Resources
- Colonial Williamsburg Website: Provides historical context and examples of Williamsburg Georgian architecture.
- Society of Architectural Historians: Contains academic articles on early American architecture including the Georgian period.
- Historic New England: Offers information on various historic architectural styles, including those rooted in the early Georgian period.
References
- “American Georgian Architecture” by Addison, Burke. History of Colonial American Architecture, Vol 3, 2020.
- “Colonial Williamsburg History and Restoration” by Marcus Whiffen. Yale University Press, 2001.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Architecture of Colonial America” by Harold Donaldson Eberlein.
- “Building the Georgian City” by James Ayres.
- “Colonial Architecture: Early Years and Legacy” by Anthony G. White.
Real Estate Basics: Williamsburg Georgian or Early Georgian Fundamentals Quiz
### What is a distinguishing feature of Williamsburg Georgian architecture?
- [x] Symmetrical design with restrained decoration
- [ ] Asymmetrical facades with ornate decoration
- [ ] Use of stucco and large verandas
- [ ] Flat roofs with extensive cornices
> **Explanation:** Williamsburg Georgian architecture is characterized by its symmetrical design and restrained decoration, distinguishing it from later Georgian styles.
### Where is the prime location to find Williamsburg Georgian houses?
- [x] Williamsburg, Virginia
- [ ] Boston, Massachusetts
- [ ] Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- [ ] Charleston, South Carolina
> **Explanation:** The Williamsburg Georgian style is named after Williamsburg, Virginia, where the architecture became prominent in the early 1700s.
### What type of materials are most commonly used in Williamsburg Georgian houses?
- [x] Brick
- [ ] Wood clapboard
- [ ] Stone
- [ ] Stucco
> **Explanation:** Brick is the primary material used in Williamsburg Georgian houses, reflecting their sturdy and practical design.
### What is a typical feature of the roof in Williamsburg Georgian houses?
- [ ] Flat roof with wide cornices
- [ ] Mansard roof with dormer windows
- [x] Gabled or hipped roof with chimneys at each end
- [ ] Flat roof with a parapet
> **Explanation:** A common feature in Williamsburg Georgian houses is a gabled or hipped roof with large chimneys at each end.
### In what era did Williamsburg Georgian houses become prevalent?
- [ ] Late 1600s
- [ ] Late 1700s
- [ ] Early 1600s
- [x] Early 1700s
> **Explanation:** Williamsburg Georgian houses became prevalent in the early 1700s, particularly during the colonial period in America.
### How would you describe the exterior lines of a Williamsburg Georgian house?
- [x] Simple exterior lines
- [ ] Ornate exterior lines
- [ ] Irregular exterior lines
- [ ] Prominently curved lines
> **Explanation:** The Williamsburg Georgian houses are known for their simple exterior lines, focusing on symmetry and modest decoration.
### Historically, why did Williamsburg Georgian houses have two large chimneys?
- [ ] To support tall ceilings
- [ ] For purely decorative purposes
- [x] To serve multiple fireplaces and create balance
- [ ] To store wood or coal
> **Explanation:** The two large chimneys in Williamsburg Georgian houses are designed to serve multiple fireplaces and enhance the symmetrical, balanced design of the architecture.
### What type of interior design is characteristic of Williamsburg Georgian houses?
- [x] Symmetrical room layouts with minimal ornamentation
- [ ] Lavishly decorated interiors with asymmetrical room layouts
- [ ] Open-plan interiors with exposed brickwork
- [ ] Interior designs with curved rooms and ornate columns
> **Explanation:** The interiors of Williamsburg Georgian houses typically reflect the balanced, functional nature seen on the exterior, featuring symmetrical room layouts and minimal ornamentation.
### Compared to later Georgian houses, how are the decorative elements in Williamsburg Georgian houses described?
- [ ] Highly ornate
- [ ] Asymmetrical
- [x] Fewer and simpler
- [ ] Exuberantly detailed
> **Explanation:** Williamsburg Georgian houses have fewer and simpler decorative elements compared to the more ornate later Georgian houses.
### Why are brick and symmetry important in Williamsburg Georgian architecture?
- [ ] For complex aesthetic appeal
- [ ] To illustrate technological advancement
- [x] To reflect sturdiness and classical balance
- [ ] To accommodate irregular terrains
> **Explanation:** Brick and symmetry in Williamsburg Georgian architecture reflect the intentions of sturdiness and a balanced design that draws from classical architecture principles.
