During the very late 19th Century through the very early 20th Century, there was a renewed interest in Spanish Mission architecture. Although largely popular in the southwest United States, there are examples where the style was embraced north of the border. If you live in New York City, you can see examples on the CUNY Queens College campus.
There isn’t one single architecture not represented in row houses so naturally, I’ve discovered some Mission Revival row houses during my journeys. Some distinct features of Mission architecture that are demonstrated in row houses include:
- Smooth stucco walls in creamy beige hues
- Red tiled roofs
- Arches supported by columns
- Enclosed patio / courtyard spaces
- Bell-shaped gables
Typically, Spanish Mission Revival homes are detached. So, when the style has been applied to row homes, it’s done with creativity. For example, it is unlikely a single row house would have an enclosed courtyard. Below, the entire row is given the enclosed courtyard feeling by setting the elevation of the homes back quite a bit from the street and placing the arches and column close to the sidewalk. This particular home has a beautiful garden and a very charming street light.
Once you pass through the gate, you have alternating walk-ways and driveways.
A little closer and you arrive at a door, which has a decorative iron gate. Often, having an iron gate on your home provides added security but you have to sacrifice a cheerful appearance. With Spanish Mission, the use of ornate metal is complimentary to the style.
Below is a different row I discovered in Forest Hills Gardens in Queens New York. Note the chimney and red tiles; very typical of the style. The decorative iron work is used for Juliette balconies on these. Look to the very right in this photo and note the windows with arches.
Learn more:
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mission_Revival_architecture
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture_of_the_California_missions
- http://architecture.about.com/od/periodsstyles/ig/House-Styles/mission-724232.htm
Row House Living 