History of Housing Richmond And Kew

Getting involved with property, renovations and buildings without being interested in their different styles and building methods would be very difficult.

When deciding on how to approach the renovation, it can be extremely helpful if you have some knowledge of the building methods used, the date of the property, particularly on much older properties. This would enable the renovations to go more smoothly and with sympathy shown toward the building.

Recognising Styles

Properties from different period have their own recognisable styles. However, a particular style can have many variations. Over time styles can be altered to take in new ideas. Styles can also vary to some extent in different parts of the country. In general you can recognise a house’s possible date of construction to within a few decades by its architectural features. If you know the date and style this can tell you its probable technique of construction and what suitable ways can be used during the redeveloping.

Georgian

Houses from the 18th century period, particularly from 1730 to 1800 can be described as ‘Georgian’. Georgian architecture was based on the classical styles of Ancient Greece and Rome. These houses favoured stylish proportions, sash window and mostly had a simple exterior. Georgian houses can be very large and splendid but there can also be terraced houses as well. The walls between the terraced houses would have been thick. This would help prevent the spread of fire. The front entrance sometimes would have a semi-circular fanlight above the door, not as part of the door.

Victorian and Edwardian

A single source of style and gone by the end of the 18th Century. The Victorian’s enthusiasm turned to the colossal range of influences based on historic British architecture, for example, Gothic and Tudor styles. These had features such as church like windows and asymmetrical silhouettes which were embellished with towers. By the end of the 19th century designs were less ostentatious. In 1901 a new and fresh style was emerging, this drew on the Italianate influences which resulted in tall and elegant houses with large and tall windows. There was also delicate glazing bars. There was a move towards the Arts and Crafts style, making homes more basic and built mostly with red brick. These homes had tall chimneys and wooden features with careful detailing.