Amazing photos of Italianate Denver homes courtesy of Johnathan J. Stegeman
Dr. Tom Paradis, Associate Professor at University of Northern Arizona University, classifies Italianate style homes in the Early National and Romantic Style time period. Italianates became popular in America during the years between 1850 to 1890. Neighborhoods slightly north of Denver are home to many of these beauties.
Interestingly, Italianate style homes originated in England. Europeans spent numerous years revising and perfecting the style by borrowing features from homes of the original Italian Renaissance period. The home style arrived in America in the 1850’s.
Denver Italianate homes are primarily constructed of brick. The Denver fire of 1863 destroyed wooden structures which thereby encouraged the use of brick in rebuilding homes beyond that point.
Predominant characteristics of Italianate Homes:
Vertical – at least two stories in height
Segmented Roman arches adorn the area above the windows
Small ornamental chimney
Low hipped roof
Bracketed eves (usually paired) under the roof
Bay window is typically the focal point
More elaborate designs include a widows-walk
Tall narrow windows
Symmetrical front door often with a Roman arch above the door
Curtis Park (north of Denver) and surrounding neighborhoods offer a wide variety of single family and row home Italianate styles of architecture. Feel free to contact me with your listing or buying needs in this Denver neighborhood.
Michelle A. Potter
Denver Realtor
RE/MAX Professionals
