17. The Foresquare

This is a house that somehow manages to hide in its urban settings. You just don't notice it unless something has been done to make it stand out; such as a garish paint job. Despite its size, the house can be constructed without an architect on a reasonably small lot and provides excellent space. The facade can vary from house to house with the entryway moved from the center to one of the sides. In addition, there are a variety of different porches that vary in shape and size. I think this adds to the camouflage. The building also makes a fine farmhouse and can be located in rural settings.

What to look for (clues)?

• Normally the building is a 2+ story cube. Bay windows are a possibility.


• A hipped or pyramidal roof with a specific type of dormer (roof window). This dormer is nearly always present at the center front but also commonly appears on both sides as well.


• The entryway is at the front of the house.


• There is normally some type of porch or verandah.

Where to find it ?

Once I identified the Foresquare I was surprised by their numbers in older urban settings. As mentioned earlier, look for it in rural locations as well. A number of Foresquares in Quebec are raised and you must take steps to reach the entryway.
I have also found some smaller, single story homes that boast the same 'shed dormer'. I still have to prove that they're related to the Foresquare.