As a large metropolitan area with tons of historical significance, New York City is an icon around the world. Anyone who has visited the city knows it features a unique blend of architectural styles that culminate in a one-of-a-kind city. And while New York City is famous for architectural titans such as the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, inspiring architectural styles can be found throughout the entire state of New York. These architectural styles often serve as a source of inspiration for your Hartsdale, NY architect.
The following architectural aspects are prevalent in New York and work to develop the unique style within the state. Perhaps they can help you decide how to design your own space with your Hartsdale, NY architect.
- Neoclassicism: Architecture within the entire state is defined by the periods of rapid growth, three of which stand out from others. Therefore, the first large growth period was Neoclassicism, which featured heavily between 1780 and 1820. This unique style commonly includes colonnades and arches. Buildings with this style often have a ceremonial entrance at the base, a uniform shaft, and a pronounced top. Building facades are generally made from brick or stone. Famous landmarks that feature elements of Neoclassicism are St. Peter’s Church, Federal Hall, and LaGrange Terrace.
- Greek Revival: The second predominant style found in New York is the Greek Revival, which is found in many structures completed between 1818 and 1950. This style is the first truly national style featured in the United States. It features ties to classic tradition and democracy, which was very popular at the time (and still is for many New Yorkers). Greek Revival features elements found in classic Greece and Rome, which is why it has been a symbol of democracy throughout the ages. This style features ornate carvings, large staircases, massive columns, and intricate details throughout the structure. Famous examples of this style include Cushman Row, the Brotherhood Synagogue, and the Friends Meeting House.
- Gothic Revival: The final predominant style in New York is Gothic Revival, which was popular between 1820 and 1860. Gothic Revival is similar to the Greek Revival style, but rather than paying homage to democracy, the Gothic Revival looks to religion and nature for inspiration. For this reason, the style features extreme ornateness, pointed arches, and grand turrets. It is similar to the architecture of the Middle Ages. Many churches throughout the state of New York were designed in the Gothic Revival style. Famous examples include St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity Church, and Tavern on the Green.
While these three styles contribute heavily to the unique style of all New York architecture, other styles also contribute, such as:
- Art Nouveau: Unlike the symmetry and classical elements found in much of the three major styles, Art Nouveau approached design with a more artistic and relaxed approach. This style features many curves and round edges. There are also protruding windows to develop feelings of welcomeness. Famous buildings incorporating this design style include the Decker Building, CUNY Graduate Center, the Little Singer Building, and the New York Evening Post Building.
- Colonial and Neo-Colonial: New York grew rapidly during the Colonial era, and there are many architectural remnants of this past throughout the state. This style features stunning buildings created with brick, stone, wood, or a combination of these materials. Famous examples developed with this style include the Old Quaker Meeting House in Queens, the Crailo State Historic Site in Rensselaer, and The Old ’76 House in Tappan.
- Art Deco: While it is not featured as heavily as Neoclassicism and Greek and Gothic Revival, Art Deco is found in many of New York’s buildings. This style sought to create structures that stand out by using unique geometrical layouts. And it was highly successful since some of New York’s most famous buildings were designed in the Art Deco style, including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the Chrysler Building.
- Beaux-Arts: The Beaux-Arts style is marked by its grandeur. It often combines intricacies and extravagance with technology; the result is often an airy structure with a light atmosphere. Famous examples of this style include the New York Public Library, Grand Central Terminal, and the Brooklyn Museum.
Both the city and the state of New York are well-known for distinct and unique architecture. It’s one of the many reasons the city remains a very popular tourist destination. The unique blend of these different styles has resulted in some very interesting architectural aspects that can be easily observed everywhere in New York. Contact Jeffrey Jordan Architecture, a Hartsdale NY architectural firm, to learn about how New York’s architecture is unique and how it can be incorporated into any modern design.
Located in the Greater New York area, Jeffrey Jordan Architect specializes in the design of high-end projects such as luxury apartment and townhouse renovations, schools, churches, temples, and offices.