Neoclassical architecture came to rise around the same time the American Revolution took place. It is believed that Neoclassical architecture became such a hit at that time since the love of Ancient Greeks’ for symmetry and order in all aspects of their lives – from politics to business to pleasure – were the same things that the younger generation aspired to have. The devastation wrought by the revolution left a sour taste in everyone’s mouths, making them want the very opposite.
Although there were four types of Neoclassical architecture that had emerged in America, all of them shared certain similarities. All of them were about sharp edges and corners. All of them also favored lighter colors for their overall color schemes, leaving it to interior details like Curtain Tiebacks, curtain rings, and of course their curtains to create contrast with darker shades.
Everything in Neoclassical architecture, down to the thinnest strip of curtain tiebacks and smallest curtain rings to the enormous and imposing pillars built in front, had to serve a purpose. The Ancient Greeks did not believe in waste and so did the younger generations. As such, curtain tiebacks and curtain rings always had to serve a purpose aside from making things look prettier. Curtain rings and curtain tiebacks had to be truly effective in keeping curtain backs at the exact preferred angle. If not, then they were disposed of while new curtain tiebacks and Curtain rings were brought in.
The Federalist style was the first of all types of neoclassical architecture. It was the time when the revolution finally reached its bloody end and peace began to reign with the creation of the Constitution. Some of the country’s greatest men in history lived during this time, and most of them aspired to model America after the Rome, the greatest civilization of ancient times. Federal architecture is characterized by low-pitched roofs, slender columns, a prominent central entrance area, and subtle artwork for low-relief moldings.
The idealist style was, on the other hand, highly popularized by Thomas Jefferson. Idealist homes had to symbolize the moral and intellectual aspects of classicisms, thus making it harder to build compared to other neoclassical styles.
Following after the idealist period was the rationalist style of neoclassical architecture. It was arguably the least used of all four types, but it was also the one most faithful to classical precepts. Its distinct characteristics include domes and stone vaulting.
Last but not the least would be the Greek revival period, which is considered to be the most popular of all four neoclassical styles. It started in the mid-19th century and lasted for about a hundred years. Doorways, instead of being arched, were linteled. They also preferred simpler lines, most of which followed a uniform look and angle. Classical columns were a major feature as well and often had Ionic, Doric, or Corinthian capitals.