Colonial Homes For Sale Pittsburgh

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Pittsburgh Colonial Houses

Introduction to the Colonial Home Style

Colonial-style homes, with their distinctive charm and timeless elegance, have left an indelible mark on the architectural tapestry of America. These homes, characterized by their symmetry, steep roofs, and classical lines, represent a tangible link to the past, recalling an era of craftsmanship and tradition that still resonates today.

Defining Colonial-Style Architecture

The term "colonial" in architecture refers to a style of home design prevalent during the colonial period of the United States, roughly from the late 1600s to the mid-1700s. The style is strongly associated with the early settlers of America, who brought with them the architectural traditions of their native countries.

Key architectural features of colonial-style homes generally include:

• Two to three stories.
• Symmetry in design.
• An accented doorway directly in the middle of the house's front façade.

The interiors typically have a central hallway with rooms branching off on both sides. These homes also feature steep roofs, often with one or more dormers, and large, centrally located chimneys to heat all rooms.

Although the broader colonial style has several shared characteristics, it's important to note that it can be further divided into various sub-styles, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the early American settlers. These include:

1. Spanish colonial: Popular in the southwest and characterized by adobe construction and terracotta roofs.
2. French colonial: Known for its tall, narrow doors and windows.
3. Dutch colonial: Easily recognized by its broad, barn-like shape and gambrel roof.
4. Georgian colonial: The most common in the northeast, marked by its strict symmetry, brick construction, and classical ornamentation.

Colonial-Style Homes in Pittsburgh

The historical legacy of colonial-style homes in Pittsburgh stretches back to the 18th century. English and German architectural traditions significantly influenced the city's early development.

Pittsburgh's colonial-style homes stand out for several reasons. They typically follow the traditional symmetrical layout, two to three-story structure, steep roofs, and central chimneys typical to colonial architecture. However, many homes display unique adaptations to the city's topography and climate. Steeply sloped plots led to creative foundation and layout solutions, and locally sourced materials, such as Pennsylvania bluestone, gave the city's colonial homes a distinctive flair.

These homes were pivotal in shaping Pittsburgh's architectural and urban development. Their construction followed a planned, symmetrical layout, influencing the design of city blocks and neighborhoods. This influence can still be seen in the city's older areas, where colonial homes proudly testify to Pittsburgh's early history.

Famous Examples of Colonial-Style Homes in Pittsburgh

Numerous examples of colonial-style homes in Pittsburgh have been meticulously preserved. They are a testament to the city's architectural past.

One such example is the Oliver Miller Homestead in South Park. This stone house, dating back to the 18th century, is a classic example of a colonial frontier home prominent in Pittsburgh's historical landscape. Its thick stone walls and distinctive architecture provide a glimpse into the living conditions of early American settlers.

The Neill Log House in Schenley Park / Squirrel Hill is another significant historic colonial building. Constructed in the 1760s, the Neill Log House is the oldest standing structure within Pittsburgh's city limits. This log house, albeit more straightforward in design than many other colonial homes, demonstrates the adaptability and resilience of colonial architecture.

Finally, the Woodville Plantation in Bridgeville offers a richly preserved example of Georgian colonial architecture. Its symmetrical design, high-pitched roof, and classical decorative elements encapsulate the elegance and status that colonial-style homes could convey in the 18th century.

Living in a Colonial-Style Home in Pittsburgh

Living in a colonial-style home in Pittsburgh offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The distinctive layout, often featuring a central hallway and rooms arranged symmetrically on either side, provides an inherent sense of balance and order. Most of these homes have undergone renovations, adding modern amenities while preserving their character. Further, the general style has lived on in newer construction homes.