by Architectural Observer | Jan 16, 2018 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
The William A. Radford Company of Chicago was one of the most recognized names in the plans-by-mail business in the early 20th century. Homes built from their plans can still be found in surprising numbers throughout the country. While perusing their Portfolio of...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 12, 2018 | Blog, Drag Queen Architecture, Observations
If dissociative identity disorders can afflict structures, this former Folk Victorian house appears to be symptomatic. The wood-framed structure has had several changes to its exterior since first constructed, likely in the 1890’s. Portions of the house were...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 11, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Probably built in the 1890’s, the Merit Building in downtown McCook, Nebraska, went through a radical interior remodeling in the 1960’s. The redesign converted the basement level into a mini-mall with numerous aluminum and glass storefronts. The...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 10, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Taking advantage of a sloping lot, the builder of a c. 1920 bungalow achieved 3 goals simultaneously with concrete block: A garage A retaining wall A level lot There is a door at the back of the garage which opens to the adjacent sidewalk. A set of steps leads to...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 10, 2018 | Blog, Observations
At first glance, this house appears to be a rather ordinary Craftsman style bungalow (aside from the 1960’s iron porch supports, vinyl siding and plastic shutters, that is). However, appearances can be deceiving. This “bungalow” is actually an...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 9, 2018 | Blog, Observations
I happened upon this Craftsman-style bungalow a few days ago; the bright yellow facade initially caught my eye. The sides still display an earlier, less vibrant, color scheme. The new look, with its dark brown shingled gable, does a better job of emulating a period...
