Styling Cues of the Georgian Era in the UK

The Georgian era is named for the reigns of four British kings George I, George II, George III and George IV, who reigned from 1714 to 1830. This article takes a look at the architectural and styling cues introduced to the British landscape during this era.

What are the differences between the Georgian era and the others, say the Edwardian or the Victorian? We will see what ideas may have been borrowed from other style houses and why it was so important to have this building and modernizing going on during this particular time.

The Georgian homes were built as a tangible tribute to the success that people were experiencing at the time. This was something they could see and feel and live in. The idea of having more than the Jones’ was not something that only started a few years ago. The more financially successful they became the more elaborate the homes became.

Some of the ways that you can recognize Georgian architecture is by looking at the roof. Gables were a sign as were the single style Georgian homes that were called ‘Capes’ or ‘Cape Cods’. Chimneys at the end or center of the home, transom lights, and ornamental columns around the front of the house were all signs that this was a Georgian architecture home.

Social classes were the ones who ruled what was considered acceptable and what was not. This was truly the birth of the social class. Georgian style homes were named after the many King Georges who were in control during this era. There also was a lot of excavating going on in the Roman and Greek temples, which provided the influence for much of the architecture of this time.

The Georgian style was considered the ultimate in sophistication for the homes of the rich English gentlemen of this time. Their country homes were the model for those who did not have money. This was their idea of what being rich must be like. American Georgian designs may not have been as sumptuous as the English versions but they were roomier than the early architecture.

Colonial homes were usually only one room. Georgian homes had a hallway with two rooms on each side and a stairway with another set of four rooms upstairs. Windows changed in style as well. The double hung design came into being about this time. Shingles were removed and decorative embellishments were their replacement.

The Georgian homes distinctive décor can be attributed to the influence of the Greek and Roman style that was adapted by the men working in the saw mills. They made decorative designed wood pieces for the homes often hanging them over the entrance door. They were also used along the roof with the appearance of holding up the corners of the home.

If you are not sure if a home meets the criteria that clearly identifies it as a Georgian architecture home, there are three basics to look for.

1) The detailing in the molding along the top of the walls is often designed to look like a row of teeth.

2) Another identifying feature is the windows. Instead of hinged windows, double-hung windows were the replacements, which not only looked better but the ease of opening and closing was improved.

3) Doorways, especially entrance, were spruced up to draw more attention to this area. The addition of columns and gables as well as covered porches or entrances were added.

You will find that the Architectural heritage of several era's is preserved in the United Kingdom. Its really enriches your enjoyment of the view when you're able to identify the different influences on the British streets as you go on your way.