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Eclectic (1850-1910)
From Louis Sullivan to SOM


 

 


A new wealthy class emerged in the second half of the 19th century.  As these people traveled to Europe they gathered ideas for their homes back in America.  The resulting building did not follow any single established style but rather resulted from an eclectic mixing of various styles.

New technology in woodworking resulted in wide use of decorative trim.

some characteristic features:
mansard roof - "haunted house" roof from France
crocket/gingerbread/bargeboard - lacy wooden trim
pinnacle - pointed extension from top of building
turret - rounded room sticking out from corner

It was during this time that the Chicago School exerted its influence.

three architects from Chicago:
Henry Richardson - designed houses for the middle class
Louis Henry Sullivan - "Form Follows Function"
Frank Lloyd Wright - (see information about International period)