Discover the Classic Charm of Brownstones, Brick Row Houses, and Eastern Town Houses

Introduction

Step back in time and experience the allure of 19th-century architecture with these iconic styles: Brownstone, Brick Row House, and Eastern Town House. These homes were architectural staples of the urban landscape, particularly in the eastern United States, and remain coveted pieces of real estate today.

What Defines a Brownstone?

A Brownstone is a narrow house with stoop entrances leading up to the first floor, usually comprising 4 or 5 stories. Brownstones are built from a specific reddish-brown sandstone and are commonly associated with luxury and elegance. They feature common side walls with neighboring homes.

Imagine walking down a Brooklyn street, where rows of these charming houses stretch out with their uniquely simple, yet majestic, facades. Here are a few standout features to help you identify a Brownstone:

• Material: Constructed from brown sandstone.
• Stories: Typically 4 to 5 stories high.
• Entrances: Elevated stoops leading to the main door.
• Windows: Tall, elongated windows often adorned with decorative lintels.
• Ornamentation: Beautiful, intricate ironwork on railings and steps.

Example: 19th-century Brooklyn Brownstone

Imagine a scene from 19th-century Brooklyn, where the hustle and bustle of city life took place among rows of stately Brownstones, each exuding charm and character from their ornate iron railings to their sturdy sandstone facades.

Brick Row House: Foundational and Practical

The Brick Row House offers groundbreaking simplicity and functionality, effortlessly blending it with style. Unlike the brownstone, Brick Row Houses are primarily constructed of red or brown bricks. These homes were the backbone of middle-class urban neighborhoods.

Here are distinguishing characteristics:

• Material: Mainly red or reddish-brown bricks.
• Height: Usually 2 to 3 stories.
• Design: Plain facade with occasional decorative cornices.
• Layout: Narrow and deep with uniform features, typically in a straight row.
• Harmony: Symmetrical design layouts.

Example: Georgetown’s Brick Row Houses

Take a stroll through historic Georgetown in Washington, D.C. Rows of charming brick homes immediately catch the eye, their unique blend of form and function telling tales of middle-class prosperity in the 19th century.

Eastern Town House: The Renaissance Revival Masterpiece

Finally, let’s delve into the elegance of the Eastern Town House, a beacon of 19th-century opulence. These grand homes featured a revival of Renaissance styles and are often richly decorated.

Distinctive elements include:

• Architecture: Influenced by Renaissance Revival and Italianate styles.
• Height: Spanning 3 to 4 stories.
• Detail: Lavishly decorated facades with elaborate moldings and cornices.
• Functionality: Often includes a “piano nobile” or the principal floor level that is an elevated entryway.
• Interior: Expansive floor plans and detailed interior woodwork.

Example: Beacon Hill’s Magnificent Eastern Town Houses

Beacon Hill in Boston is home to some of the most preserved and beautiful Eastern Town Houses. These residences boast rich architectural details that have stood the test of time, providing a window into 19th-century affluence.

Conclusion

Brownstones, Brick Row Houses, and Eastern Town Houses each offer a unique flavor of architectural history and urban development in 19th-century America. Their distinct styles continue to charm residents and visitors alike, standing as lasting monuments to their time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Brownstone?

A Brownstone is a narrow, tall house built from reddish-brown sandstone, typically found in tightly packed rows in urban areas.

How does a Brick Row House differ from a Brownstone?

Brick Row Houses are generally simpler, built primarily from red or brown bricks, and usually 2-3 stories tall. Brownstones are more ornate and constructed from brown sandstone.

What are the defining features of an Eastern Town House?

Eastern Town Houses are heavily influenced by Renaissance Revival and Italianate styles, sporting lavishly decorated facades, expansive floor plans, and detailed interior woodwork.

Where can I find these homes today?

Brownstones are predominant in New York City neighborhoods like Brooklyn and Manhattan. Brick Row Houses can be found in areas like Georgetown, Washington D.C., and Eastern Town Houses in Boston’s Beacon Hill.

Are these homes still popular today?

Absolutely, these homes are highly sought after for their historical charm, architectural significance, and enduring beauty.

Related Terms: Renaissance Revival, Italianate style, Federal Style Architecture, Urban Anthropologie.