Expert: Rikki Nyman - 6/28/2011

Question
We recently purchased a 1925 Dutch Colonial Revival home and would like to add a fence.  What type of fence would have been appropriate at that time?

Answer
A white picket fence would be perfectly acceptable. Or you could add a fence with different patterns; for example, in the lower portion it might be an arrangement of panels in a loose pattern of squares and a tighter lattice pattern of diagonal panels above. Often pergolas were incorporated in the corners to form a sitting area as well as support vines. Gates often had rounded arches to support climbing plants.

To get a little inspiration, I pulled a 1926 publication by the Southern Pine Association. In many respects the style is still with us. There are many fencing companies that still manufacture Colonial styles. For example, I did a quick search and came up with http://www.colonialfences.com/wood-fence-arbors-pergolas.php  Take a quick look at those. Many are virtually identical to the illustrations in my millwork books.

Colonial style fencing seems to come in several flavors. There is Classical, Craftsman, or Asian-style detailing. Take a look around your house to see what types of details were used and incorporate those. For example, if you have a bracketed hood over your entry with some type of pendant, you might see if you could find a similar ornament to use as a finial for your fence. If your house is agnostic, chose a style and carry it through consistently.

I'm not associated with the company cited, but they do have historically correct fences at least from the photos.  It will at least get you started.

Best of luck with your fence project!
Rikki Nyman
www.antiquehomestyle.com