French Provincial Revival Architecture
Taking its inspiration from rural French manor homes of the 1600s, French Provincial Revival architecture is noted for its balance and symmetry. American soldiers stationed in Europe during WWI were drawn to the beauty of the French manors, and upon their return to the United States built similar homes in upscale neighborhoods. As a result, the French Provincial style became very popular in the 1920s, and experienced a similar boom in the '60s.
French Provincial-style homes are usually brick, and feature slate or copper detailing. Key elements of the style include balustrades on the porch and balcony; rectangular doors situated in arched doorways; double French-style windows with shutters; and a steep, high roof. Chimneys and windows are perfectly balanced and symmetrical, often with arched tops. Second-story windows are tall, usually featuring a curved head breaking through the cornice.
French Provincial Revival architecture is common throughout the United States, especially in suburbs built between WWI and WWII. While the style is also popular in recent housing developments, because of its grand scale, French Provincial homes tend to be located in higher-priced neighborhoods.
