The 20th century was known as the era of modernism in architecture. A lot of houses built in this era were built in the style of simplicity, futurism, and innovation that characterized modern architecture. Popular materials built into modern homes include glass windows and roofs, metal accents and furnishings, and preference to open and wide spaces. The philosophy of contemporary architecture simply rejected the elaboration and styles of classic architectural styles.
The latter part of the 20th century and the early 21st saw the rise and popularity of Neo-Eclectic Architecture. This architectural style is considered as postmodern architecture and began as a response to the simplification and innovation that accompanied modernist architecture.
What is Neo-Eclectic Architecture?
Neo-Eclectic architecture can be defined as a movement that seeks to return to the styles and aesthetics of the classic modes of architecture. It aims to revive traditional architectural styles. The movement began in the 1970s with the United States Bicentennial celebrations where there was a renewal of interest in the classic architectural styles known as the American Revivalism.
Neo-Eclectic Architecture sought to combine elements that revived various traditional styles such as Mediterranean, Victorian, Colonial, Tudor, Mansard, French, and Classical Revival styles. Their iconic features, such as columns, gables, dormers, and porches, are incorporated in the exterior of the houses. Neo-Eclectic houses are also characterized as vast and sprawling houses with multiple stories, large garages, and intricate roof lines.
What makes Neo-Eclectic Architecture unique?
Combination of architectural styles
One unique characteristic of the neo-eclectic design is indeed its nature of combining elements from various classic styles. Some houses and mansions made in this architectural movement contain gables, columns, and porches in the façade of their homes. Neo-Eclectic houses allow homeowners with more than one favored architectural style to experiment and add features that will make their home unique and entirely their own.
Practical, cookie-cutter designs
At present, Neo-eclectic architecture is prevalent in the construction of commercialized subdivisions or executive villages where most houses have similar plans or styles. Architects argue that these types of dwellings make neighborhoods monotonous since the houses’ designs are manufactured from just one approved by the developer. Although, some homeowners may argue that simply a lot of people favor the beautiful design of the neo-eclectic subdivisions.
Not all elements are functional
A complete about-face from the modernist aesthetic of simplicity and functionality, neo-eclectic houses are all about design, style, and décor. Have you ever wanted gable roof windows or the classic, circular attic windows but do not actually want to have upper floors or attics inside your house? This situation is not a problem with neo-eclectic architects. They can also build homes with posts, columns, or brackets, even if they have no structural or functional purpose. These elements are just made to complete the exterior look of the house.
Neo-eclectic interiors
Arguably, neo-eclectic interiors of houses can be cheaper when it comes to heating during the winter. The inside of homes built under the neo-eclectic design has open ceilings even if they are several stories high, so upper heating floors are easier. The rooms have open spaces, and floor plans and the ceilings are beautifully decorated with wooden beams and panels.
