Architectural Styles: Neo-Classical Revival

We now present another installment in Old North News series called “Architectural Styles.” In each installment of this article, we will talk briefly about one style of home in Old North Knoxville. Where possible, we will list at least one example of the style discussed. Please keep in mind that while we try to be accurate in our descriptions, no description can be complete. Consider this a brief introduction, a point to get you started. Web sites, bookstores, and the local library are excellent places to continue your search for more information on the styles discussed here.

In this installment, we will list some of the features of the Neo-Classical Revival style.

Neo-Classical Revival

Popular in America from roughly 1895 to 1950, this architectural style incorporates many forms form Classical Antiquity. For example, Neo-Classical incorporates the Roman idea of a keystone in the arched Palladian windows and fluted columns that are often topped with Greek capitals in the simple Doric, fluted Ionic, or elaborate Corinthian style. Sometimes the columns are square and the windows of the more horizontal style. When horizontal windows are used, there is often a lintel above each window and above each door, reflecting a Greek influence. Balanced in overall design, porticos with a pediment are also a common feature of the Neo-Classical Revival. The style was applied to both commercial and residential structures.

In 1893 Charles B. Altwood unveiled his Fine Art Building at the Chicago World’s Fair. Part of the Columbian Exposition, this display of Neo-Classical architecture did much to promote the style in the U.S. Usually larger in size than a similar structure of the nineteenth-century Greek Revival style, the Neo-Classical Revival features broad expanses of plain wall surface and symmetrically arranged windows and columns. 

In Old North Knoxville, you will find an impressive example of Neo-Classical Revival house at the very end of Armstrong Avenue. Called the Dunn house or Dunn Mansion because of its imposing size, this white house has the following features:

• Cornice with dentils
• A pediment above
• A portico with colossal Corinthian topped columns
• Palladian-style windows with
• Keystones at the top of the arches
• Balustrade on the roof
• Brackets, and
• A Fanlight over the main front door.

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