Living in Style: Georgian Federal

Andersen Windows explain the history and key elements of the Georgian Federal home style.

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The closely related Georgian and Federal styles have lent a great deal to the history of American housing. Many elements of these styles have appeared in homes since colonial times and still appear in new construction today.

The Georgian style, named after King George III, first became popular in New England and spread across the U.S. colonies during the late 1700s. This style marked a time of reformation of the American home from utilitarian and functional to one that was stylized, stately, spacious and comfortable – a shift made possible by the ever-increasing wealth of the colonists.

Key features of the Georgian Federal style include:

• A two-story symmetrical façade
• Paneled front door in the center with an elliptical transom window
• Medium-pitched gambrel or hipped roof
• At least two chimneys placed on either side of the central hall
• Double-hung windows featuring 12-over-12 grille patterns
• Exterior colors in whites, greens, grays and reds

These Coldwell Banker listings embody the Georgian style in all its regal glory.

4300 Paper Mill Road SE in Marietta, GA listed by Toni Itkin with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

80 Fleming Lane in Fairfield, CT listed by Steven Thomson with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

This trend toward grandeur continued to grow, culminating in the Federal style, which was popular from approximately 1780 through 1820. Much of the style’s characteristics carry over from the Georgian style, although in the Federal style they are much more refined.

Georgian Federal style is often reflected in newer construction projects that want to communicate a “traditional” look and feel. With roots deep in the creation of the country, it is easy to see how the Georgian Federal style has become a familiar piece of American neighborhoods.

To learn more about home styles, check out Andersen Windows’ Home Style Library.

Victoria Keichinger

Victoria Keichinger is the Vice President, Brand Marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate. When she's not managing national media and advertising for the Coldwell Banker brand at work, she finds herself most at home in Jersey City, NJ with her pre-school crush turned spouse and son. A true Francophile, she loves to travel and will go anywhere there are ski slopes.