Page 52 - Waxahachie, TX Residential Design Guidelines

Pl annin g a Preservation Project

d . h i s t o R i c R e s i d e n t i a l

a R c h i t e c t u R a l s t y l e s

Waxahachie’s residential historic districts are home to a wide
variety of architectural styles. Understanding the key features
of these styles ensures that they will be preserved and only
appropriate changes will be made. These key features are detailed
in the sections that follow.

g R e e k R e v i v a l ( 18 2 5 – 18 6 0 )

The Greek Revival style was the dominant architectural design
applied to buildings of all types in the United States during the
period between 1830 and 1850. Its popularity was based on
America’s fascination with the democratic ideals of ancient
Greece. The earliest proponent of the style was Benjamin Henry
Latrobe, an English-born architect who emigrated to the United
States in 1796. The Bank of Philadelphia, which he designed in
1798, was the first building in the nation designed in the style. He
later went on to become the first federal architect and designed
many of Washington, D.C.’s early buildings, including the White
House. One of his students and a successor to the office of
federal architect was Robert Mills, the first professionally trained
American-born architect. Among Mills’ most notable Greek Revival
designs was the Treasury Building in Washington D.C.

Identifying features of the Greek Revival style include:
1. Symmetrical façade dominated by a full-height porch
2. Gable or flat roof porch supported by columns of one of the
classical orders
3. Front, central door surrounded by narrow sidelights and a
rectangular line of transom lights above, door and lights
usually incorporated into more elaborate door surround
4. Single double-hung sash windows with multiple light glazing

1

4

2

3
604 Water Street is an example of the Greek Revival Style and classified
as “Recommended contributing to a future extension of the West End
Historic District.”
44 Waxahac hie Residential design guidelines