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Architecture/Type of house is this

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Expert: Rikki Nyman - 11/7/2010


Question

Michigan
I brought this house about 6 months ago.  It is in michigan, all I know it was built in 1920 it has a basement 2 bedrooms and 1 small bath, and basement.  I'm trying to get money together to restore it but I have no idea what style this house is?  Thanks

Answer
Back in the day it would have been described as a small traditional or cottage style house. Today, it would generally be considered a classical revival traditional. When you choose interior woodwork or cabinetry, you could easily incorporate Colonial styles in paneled doors, trim, and windows. Keep in mind that Craftsman style was also prevalent at the time and often used.

Use wood, linoleum (not vinyl), or tile for flooring and countertops. This is a simple house and should have simple finishes. Not only will they be affordable, but they will age well with your house and won't look dated in 10 years. Bathroom fixtures should stay white; color wasn't used until the late 20s.

Colors were generally light and pretty in the early 20s and painted wood furniture was very common.

Hope that helps a little.

Best regards,
Rikki Nyman
www.antiquehomestyle.com

Rikki Nyman

Expertise

Residential architectural questions concerning houses designed between 1900 and 1950, where the question pertains specifically to styles, designs, plans, building materials, color schemes, paint colors, interior finishes and so on. I am NOT qualified to answer engineering questions or issues involving construction methods, plumbing, electrical and the like. For example, I can describe what an appropriate color scheme would be for a vintage 1920s kitchen, or sources for plans for Storybook Style houses. I can not tell someone how to replace the electrical wiring in their old home.

Experience

I have been researching old houses and writing about them for more than five years. (See www.antiquehomestyle.com, which is my site.)

Organizations
Oregon Historical Society Architectural History Center, Portland Oregon

Publications
www.antiquehomestyle.com

Education/Credentials
B.S. History, Minor in Architectural Design

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