Dos and Don’ts of mixing architectural styles 2017

Joana suggested, “It’s amazing how a single motif can call up a whole architectural style. Motifs act as a kind of visual shorthand — when we see fishscale shingles, we think Victorian. When we see zigzags, we think Deco. When we see curlicues, we think Spanish, and so on. More and more homeowners have an impressive grasp of architectural styles — due, no doubt, to ‘This Old House’-style TV shows and instant Google searches. Lots of people are able to sense when things don’t seem to fit together right. So unless you aim to be eclectic, try to limit yourself to a few favorite motifs, and apply them consistently. If you use segmental arches, for example, don’t mix them with round ones — the first speaks Italian, while the second screams in Spanish. For similar reasons, don’t mix double-hung windows with sliders, Art Nouveau with Art Deco, divided lites with glass block, and so on. All of these pairings come from very different eras and sources, and they’ll get along none too happily in one facade.  If you’re not sure which motif goes with which style, consult some books on the style or period you’re interested in. Find five or six examples of buildings you really like, and take note of the motifs they have in common. Then, pay equally close attention to the things you don’t find, and you won’t be confused by mixed-up motifs.”