What Is Classical Architecture?
For centuries, architects have drawn influence from these civilizations and incorporated traditional ideals into subsequent styles of architecture.
For our purposes, the Classical Revival movement is the most true-to-form style of Classical architecture that exists today.
tose / Getty Images
The Classical architectural style has been revived numerous times throughout history.
The corresponding architectural style became known asGreek Revival.
This architecture focused heavily on the Greek ideal of proportion and structural integrity.
The Pantheon in Romeby Martha Bakerjian
One of the most common types of Classical architecture in the United States is known asNeoclassical.
This punch in of architecture came in response toBaroque architectureand relied heavily on the design ideals of ancient Rome.
Characteristics
Classical architecture prized concepts like boldness, humility, and intellect.
Porch of the Maidens (Caryatid porch), Erechtheion, Acropolis, AthensCC FlickrEustaquio Santimano
These values help define individual components that can be found in several Classical architectural styles.
Some of these key elements include the following.
It features elaborate granite Corinthian columns and a large concrete dome.
Parthenon from the WestPublic Domain. Courtesy ofWikipedia
The Pantheon has been used throughout history, becoming one of the most well-preserved buildings from Ancient Rome.
This classical building features several Ionic columns with ornate bases.
Centuries of heavy damage have led to partial deconstruction, but the foundational structure remains.
This is one of the most distinctive buildings left from ancient Greece, erected during the fifth century B.C.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, dates back to the fifth century B.C.
It’s an example of the Doric order with simple and unadorned columns.
It was built as a shrine to the goddess Athena and served as a treasury.
The Parthenon suffered damage and wear over time but has been restored by modern architects.
It is one of the most recognized classical structures in the world.
Interesting Facts
Classical Revival competed with Colonial Revival architecture.
Both Classical Revival andColonial Revivalarchitecture were popular during the same period.
However, Classical Revival homes were more formal and grandiose.
The Colonial Revival style was more prevalent in American cities and suburbs and suited residential life.
Classical Revival was significantly more popular for commercial and government buildings.
Classical Revival architecture is similar to the Beaux-Arts style.
TheBeaux-Arts stylearchitecture was popular during the same period and incorporated many classical design elements.
The Classical Revival style is significantly less ornate.
Modern Architecture brought an end to the Classical Revival style.
This response was arguably the beginning of modern architecture, which replaced classical building forms with more current designs.
you might purchase a Classical Revival home.
The front-facing columns and full-height porch are the biggest clues that a home is likely in this style.
In summary, Classical architecture is a method of building that originated in Ancient Greece and Rome.
The style was revived many times, and many architectural styles incorporated classical forms.
VitruviusDe Architectura.Edward Worth Library.
Architecture in Renaissance Italy.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Classical Revival Style 1895-1950.
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
