Traits of a Colonial Revival

BY DONNA ROGERS | Special to Newsday

November 9, 2007

Features of Colonial Revivals

(1880 to 1955) Central entrance door typically framed by a portico topped with a pediment (triangular gable), decorative pilasters (flattened columns), and overhead semicircular fanlights and/or sidelights

Large double-hung windows with small panes of glass divided by muntins that give one pane the appearance of several smaller panes.

Symmetrical facade with white clapboard or cedar shingles - may be stone or brick on higher-end homes - accented by black shutters and white moldings and trim

At least one fireplace

Also:

Simple, classical detailing

Center-hall floor plan

Plain chimney

Roof with narrow overhang and dormers

Rectangular plan with the long side facing the street

Style is sometimes confused with neoclassical or Classical Revival (1895-1950), which is distinguished by a full-height porch with colossal columns that dominate the facade.