Colonial Revival
There are three types of Colonial Revival buildings in Colorado: the "historically
accurate" reproduction of the 17th century Georgian and Federal style;
the type where Colonial or Classical elements are applied to basically Victorian
or Post-Victorian buildings; and the very simple vernacular homes with a few
Colonial details. Colonial Revival buildings are usually brick and include
residences, churches and hotels.
The First Baptist Church in Denver is an example of the first type in that
it is a fairly accurate rendition of a Wren inspired New England church. There
are also Federal and Georgian examples of homes scattered around Denver.
The Fleming House in Denver represents the second type. In this case a classical
portico is placed on a somewhat typical late Queen Anne building. These Neo-Classical
elements lead to confusion and the temptation to place these structures in
the Classical Revival category. To avoid this problem, residences with classical
elements are considered examples of Colonial Revival.
The third type of Colonial Revival house is the most common. These are the
simple gabled houses with several Colonial elements such as broken pediments,
8-over-8 sash windows, fanlights, and sidelights, and shutters.
Here is a designated landmark in Longmont that is representative of the Colonial
Revival style.
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