Federal Style Architecture

Federal style architecture is an Americanized style of the popular Adams style that came from Europe. It got the name “Federal” because of the time period in which it was popular amongst builders. Federal style is an architecture style that was used heavily when America was first becoming a nation and well before the push west; which is why this style is most seen on the East Coast and not the West Coast.

Traits of the Federal StyleMost the homes from this time period are symmetrical, and Federal style is no different. These homes are usually a perfect rectangle with windows and doors that are all arranged in perfect symmetry. For those that like everything perfectly placed and patterned, this style of architecture is their dream come true.The windows for Federal Style have the same pattern as other popular architecture styles during that time. Generally there are two windows on each side of the front door and then five windows on the 2^nd story of the home. The windows are most commonly double-hung windows with six panes in each sash.There is usually a small window on each side of the front door, as well.Well-Known Federal Style in LexingtonThe Hunt-Morgan house on North Mill Street in Lexington is a famous example of the Federal style architecture. A little history of the Hunt-Morgan house from the site VisitLex.com;“It was built in 1814 for the first millionaire west of the Alleghenies, a hemp merchant named John Wesley Hunt. Among Hunt's descendants was Confederate General John Hunt Morgan, the flamboyant leader of the guerrilla fighters known as "Morgan's Raiders." Local legend has Morgan riding his mare Black Bess up the front steps, stopping to kiss his mother in the hall, and galloping out the back door-with Union troops in hot pursuit. Morgan's nephew, Thomas Hunt Morgan, born in Lexington in 1866, would become the first Kentuckian to win a Nobel Prize, for his work in genetics.

The Hunt-Morgan House is cherished not only for its human history, but for its architectural features as well. Representing a Kentucky adaptation of the Federal style, it features a large, impressive entrance door with leaded fanlight and sidelight windows; reeded woodwork and door jambs; beautifully carved mantels; and a three-story cantilevered staircase.”If you like the style of windows on the Hunt-Morgan house or other Federal style homes, contact us today for more information.