by Architectural Observer | May 7, 2017 | Blog, Drag Queen Architecture, Observations
With the proliferation of television programs devoted to house renovation (designed to sell products and stimulate the economy – not to instill a passion for history and actual cultural preservation) it’s not surprising that many formerly styled houses end...
by Architectural Observer | Apr 27, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Commissioned in 1965 by Lawrence Hyde, this house designed by Bruce Goff is located in suburban Kansas City. Because the house remains a private residence, I took photos only of the front which could be seen from the street. I’m fairly certain that the other...
by Architectural Observer | Apr 23, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Just a few random examples of some of the ways decorative concrete block has been used in the past for both ornament and privacy. These examples all probably date to the 1960’s: ...
by Architectural Observer | Apr 20, 2017 | Blog, Observations
While many are familiar with the most popular “romantic” architectural styles of the 19th century (Gothic Revival, Greek Revival, Octagon and Italianate), fewer are familiar with the Exotic Revival. In their essential and definitive “A Field Guide...
by Architectural Observer | Apr 19, 2017 | Blog, Observations, Projects
In an interesting experiment, a decrepit barn is getting an unusual update. It was desired to immediately utilize the building as a workshop and storage, but the numerous holes, cracks, and missing chunks of wood siding made it drafty and vulnerable to moisture....
by Architectural Observer | Apr 6, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Gable ornaments are most commonly associated with the Queen Anne and Folk Victorian architectural styles. Widely available in the late 19th and early 20th centuries at lumber yards or through mail-order catalogs, these ornaments still add interest to historic houses...
