by Architectural Observer | Feb 26, 2018 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
Of the hundreds of house plans offered by the William A. Radford Company of Chicago, their design number 1517 appears to have been one of their most popular – at least in the nation’s mid-section. Numerous examples of this house survive today. The design...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 31, 2018 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
I recently ran across this house on Zillow. It looks a lot like a kit house sold by Sears called the Osborn. The house was offered from 1916 to 1929 and seems to have been a popular model for them. I’m not sure if the house below is an Osborn, but if not it...
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 | Dec 5, 2017 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
A building which retains its architectural integrity is one which has been maintained as it was built and intended to be. When buildings are altered through remodeling or the installation of “maintenance -free” windows or siding, integrity is compromised....
by Architectural Observer | Nov 22, 2017 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
I recently ran across a house in McDonald, Kansas, which looked oddly familiar. Pretty sure I’d seen this facade before… maybe a Sears kit house? So I took a photo. After some digging, I found what I was looking for. To me, the house at first appeared...
by Architectural Observer | Sep 24, 2017 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses
The “Westly”, a popular kit house by Sears, was offered throughout the ‘teens and 1920’s. Its overtly Craftsman porch supports and balustrade make it memorable and easily recognizable. The following Westly, built in Holdrege, Nebraska, had...
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