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19th century commercial structures are usually considered Italianate in style. However, the variety of detailing not associated with Italianate makes it difficult to name a correct style. These commercial buildings have been divided into four categories: the single storefront, generally 25 feet wide with one entrance; the double storefront, with a width of 50 feet or more and two or three entrances; the corner building which may have entrances on two sides and sometimes a diagonal corner entrance; and the commercial block which generally covers a large area with multiple entrances.
Most 19th century commercial buildings are two or three stories in height, with a flat roof and a variety of ornamental detailing. The "textbook" store front has a recessed central entrance flanked by large display windows with kickplates, clerestories, and transoms. The primary or roofline cornice is often bracketed with parapets, finials, or simple decorative panels. There is sometimes a secondary cornice separating the first two floors, which sometimes repeat the pattern of the upper cornice. Windows on the upper floors are generally smaller than the display windows on the first floor and are usually decorated with molded surrounds, radiating voussoirs, or plain lintels. Some of the most ornate 19th century commercial structures feature cast iron facades. These and other buildings had Italianate features particularly at the cornice. Richardsonian elements are also evident on some of these structures. The key to distinguishing a 19th century building is the predominately glass area on the first floor and smaller windows on the upper stories. These buildings are usually offices, retail, and hotel space.
Here are some designated landmarks in Longmont that are representative of the 19th Century Commercial style.
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