by Architectural Observer | Sep 23, 2017 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses
Last weekend I happened by a J-6 house by the Harris Brothers and it occurred to me that we previously had only see the front and side of the house in period material and contemporary photos. What does the back of one of these look like? Will the back match the...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 23, 2017 | Blog, Observations
When Louis Sullivan coined the term “form follows function” in 1896 he could not have been thinking of these recently constructed “senior apartments” – though the structure aptly illustrates his observation. The form of this building...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 21, 2017 | Blog, Observations
This wood structure probably dates to around 1900 – making it a late example of both the Italianate style and false-front buildings. Located in Lebanon, Kansas, a town at the geographic center of the 48 contiguous states, the original and present uses of the...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 20, 2017 | Blog, Drag Queen Architecture
What obviously started out as a Craftsman style bungalow in the ‘teens or 1920’s now has now donned the apparel of a log cabin. Or something meant to convey the impression of a log cabin. Rounded wood siding is presumably intended to look like logs. The...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 20, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Last weekend I ventured across Highway 36 in Kansas for the state’s 11th annual “Treasure Hunt”, a state-long flea market. I was hoping to get lots of interesting photos of architecture along the way, but few opportunities were to be found. I did,...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 20, 2017 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
This house captured my attention for several reasons. First, it bears a striking resemblance (in reverse) to the Aladdin “Plaza” and Harris Homes’ plan No. N-1026. Secondly, its elaborate mortise-and-tenon porch supports are both fun and chamfered....
