13. The Federal

Another building that evolved from the Georgian is the Federal (Adam in England, Louis XVI in France). It uses many of the styling clues that are present in the ‘Late Georgian’ style.

What to look for (clues)

• Rectangular in shape, the smaller side is often at the front. The main door appears in a corner of the façade. The building is asymmetrical. Side walls may appear higher than the roof in an attempt to prevent the spread of fire in urban dwellings.
• Smaller structure than the average Georgian.
• Entryway is similar to the Late Georgian but often with an uncovered stoop. Greek or Roman pilasters (fake pillars) may be present.
• Windows (3 over 2) have large colourful shutters. Fancy brick or stonework often appears above and below the windows.
• Gables may appear at the front or side of the building. There is a moderately steep roof and one or two chimneys.
• 

Where to find it

The style is more common in the North Eastern states where it may appear as row housing, but can also be found in some of the older areas of Canadian cities as individual dwellings. For some reason, this particular style is usually well maintained and dramatically painted.

The main photo is from Preston (Cambridge). The others are, in order, from Kitchener, Elmira and London.

This is another style that is sometimes called Neoclassical.