Second Empire - 1855 to 1885 

EastChurch1_v2-Web400

While the Italianate and Gothic Revival styles looked back to the romantic past for inspiration, Second Empire looked forward to what was happening in modern France. Its new Emperor was remodeling Paris using the services of Francois Mansart, a sevententh-century French architect. This style, labeled Second Empire, was popularized at various exhibitions in Paris, where it traveled to England and then to the United States.

The DeLand House at 1 East Church is a fine example of a Second Empire.

Characteristic Details:

Form

Two and three-story structures characterized by the boxy roofline. The extra space, given by the mansard roof was considered particularly functional because it permitted a full upper story of usable attic space and was often used to remodel older buildings as well as in new construction.

Roofs and Cornices

Roofs with decorative patterning in the color and texture are common occurrences. Sometimes iron cresting is shown along the roofline. A tower may be present and the tower roof is often distinctive from the main house, using the more complex convex and s-curve shapes. Dormers are also common and appear in a variety of styles. The cornice and bracket details along the cornice line are similar to the Italianate style, and the brackets can be either single or paired. 

n.main172v1ddfritsch2007web

Porch

Usually one-story and similar to the Italianate style with elaborate detailing in the scrollwork, railings and posts.

Windows

Usually arched and un-elaborated although there are numerous examples of elaborate decorative windows.

A two-story home with a mansard roof
can be found at 172 N. Main Street.

Doorways

Similar to the Italianate style, sometimes with elaborate door frames. The doors are paired or single with large glass panes in the door itself.

Dingbat

For an index of other styles that can be found in the Perinton area go to the Architectural Styles page in the History section.

Search

187_SMain_01Web200187 South Main is a village landmark.


EastChurch1_v4-Web200Mansard roof, dormers on the DeLand House at 1 East Church Street.
 

Village homes that have
Second Empire features:

1 East Church Street

172 North Main Street

187 South Main Street

53 West Church

 

bottom5© Copyright 2004-2013