Queen Anne style
For many, the Queen Anne style (1880 - 1910) typifies the architecture of the Victorian age. With its distinctive form, abundance of decorative detail, corner tower, expansive porches and richly patterned wall surfaces, the Queen Anne style is easy to identify.
High style Queen Anne buildings are often considered local landmarks. In America it was the most popular style for houses in the period from 1880 to 1900, but was often employed for large-scale public buildings as well.
The style was first created and promoted by Richard Norman Shaw and other English architects in the late 19th century. The name refers to the Renaissance-style architecture popular during the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1714).
Actually, the Queen Anne style is more closely related to the medieval forms of the preceding Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. The style became popular in the United States through the use of pattern books and the publishing of the first architectural magazine 'The American Architect and Building News'.
The Queen Anne style evolved from those early English designs to become a distinctly American style with numerous, sometimes regional variations.
The use of three dimensional wood trim called spindlework was an American innovation made possible by the technological advances in the mass production of wood trim and the ease of improved railroad transport.
While the Queen Anne style can take a variety of forms, certain key elements are commonly found. Queen Anne buildings almost always have a steep roof with cross gables or large dormers, an asymmetrical front façade, and an expansive porch with decorative wood trim. A round or polygonal front corner tower with a conical roof is a distinctive Queen Anne feature on many buildings of this style. Wall surfaces are usually highly decorative with variety of textures from shingles to half timbering, to panels of pebbles or bas relief friezes.
Identifiable features:
- Abundance of decorative elements.
- Steeply pitched roof with irregular shape.
- Cross gables.
- Asymmetrical facade.
- Large partial or full width porch.
- Round or polygonal corner tower.
- Decorative spindlework on porches and gable trim.
- Projecting bay windows.
- Patterned masonry or textured wall surfaces including half timbering.
- Columns or turned post porch supports.
- Patterned shingles.
- Single pane windows, some with small decorative panes or stained glass.
--Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).