The Tudor Revival Style in Kentucky

Although the Tudor Revival style takes its name from the Tudor period in 16th century England, it would be a mistake to suggest that the popular early 20th century architectural style was simply a repeat of architectural styles employed during the reign of the Tudor monarchs.* I’m not sure if any members of the Tudor family would actually recognize the “Tudor” in Tudor Revival houses – but there is so much to admire about this typically American blend of architectural influences, which looked to both English palaces and simple cottages to develop a style that still captivates today.

The very early Tudor Revival style dwellings in the United States were often architect-designed, and closely mirrored actual English houses from the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras (to make things even more confusing, these are the names given to the rulers AFTER the Tudor kings and queens).

The first flowering of Tudor Revival houses in America, before the proliferation of the style by mail-order giants such as Sears Roebuck & Company, were closely linked with the American Arts and Craft movement. These houses were usually large showcases, architect-designed, and fairly ornate.

In the first part of the 20th century, a less ornate version of this medieval English style soared in popularity, finding fans through mail order catalogs, builder’s guides, and pattern books.

These plans – and the houses – were fairly inexpensive, and they appealed to young couples and middle class families , many often first-time homeowners.

Tudor Revival houses can be found all over Kentucky – and although there are many, many variations, there are some common characteristics.

Elements of the style include:

-A steeply pitched roof;

-multiple gables, and often cross gables on the facade;

-large and prominent chimneys (often placed on the facade)

-arched entryways and arched windows;

-faux half-timbering, and a mixture of veneer materials (siding) – such as brick and stone;

-an asymmetrical footprint;

-entry porches or small porticoes or hoods over the door – often arched or sharply peaked;

-casement windows are often used, although double-hung windows are often common.

These characteristics don’t, of course, cover every Tudor Revival house constructed. Some houses were more picturesque, with curving roofs meant to suggest the thatched roof of English cottages. Some Tudor Revival dwellings have an overhanging second story or gable.

Whether they are simple or fancy, Tudor Revival houses have – in my opinion at least – an enduring appeal. And with local builders happy to tweak a plan from Sears Roebuck or Montgomery Ward (or countless other catalogs), the variations are endless. I’m always thrilled to spot a Tudor Revival when I’m out wandering across Kentucky, and add a photo to my ever-expanding archive.

 

 

 

*The Tudor monarchs include Henry VII, Henry VIII (he of the six wives), Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I. Queen Elizabeth I’s reign was also called the Elizabethan period, and her successor, James I, kicked off the Jacobean period.