Tudor Revival Architecture

Tudor Revival houses (1910 to 1940) grew extremely popular in the 1920s and 1930s, a time when historic architectural styles were incorporated into single-family dwellings. Sometimes referred to as "Elizabethan" or "Half-timbered" houses, the Tudor Revival imitated building features popular during the reigns of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603) and King James I (1603-1625); named the House of Tudor.

While primarily derived from English Renaissance buildings of 16th and 17th centuries, many Tudor houses owe their origins to medieval cottages. Some were even built with false thatched roofs, while other Tudor homes incorporated more ornate features copied from late medieval-era palaces. These included steeply pitched roofs, overlapping gables, and beautifully patterned brick or stonework.

One of the main characteristics of Tudor homes is decorative half-timbering -- leaving the wood frame exposed with stucco inset around it.

While wood veneer, stucco and stone were popular choices for exterior wall coverings, brick veneer was most popular after 1920, often featuring patterns such as diamonds. The houses typically were asymmetrical and one-and-a-half or two-and-a-half stories tall.

Chimneys were large and placed prominently, such as on the front or side of the house, and often featured ornamental chimney tops. Window frames were tall and narrow, often displaying small leaded glass panes.

Tudors enjoyed a second revival in the 1970s and 1980s, and are still revered by those looking to buy a home that is cozy and romantic.

***Provided Courtesy of Karen Vogel @ American Home Mortgage.

If you need a great loan, Call Karen at 909.466.1290 extension 118.