Federal Style Doorways

Federal style homes typically emphasize the cornice with decorative molding most typically tooth like dentils or block like projections.

Federal style doorways.

An elliptical fanlight or fan shaped window tops the door with long rectangular windows on either side. Windows are symmetrically arranged around a central door. The most common window configuration is five on the second story and four on the first. Occasionally a side door may include a large area of glass.

The door is simple but the ornamentation around it is grand. Tall slender columns or pilasters frame the entrance. Georgian federal style homes typically have one main entry door although there can be numerous auxiliary doors leading to patios decks the backyard or a side yard. The entrance of a federal style house screams wealth.

For example exterior decoration in federal styles and designs is generally confined to a porch or entry element. These semicircular or elliptical details would often feature a window to bring in additional light above paneled doors. Many federal style design elements are notably understated. See more ideas about house exterior doors house front.

A fanlight ornamentation above the door was also common. Side doors share panel designs similar to main entry doors although the side doors are slightly narrower. Federal style architecture often showcases geometrical concepts.