Influential Architectural Styles

Architects in Chester can certainly define their work as an art in the form of the buildings, homes, offices, hotels, resorts and commercial buildings that they design. The imagination, science and technical knowledge involved to create such grand structures should be acknowledged, so we will do just that. There are several different styles of architecture that have influenced the designs of many structures throughout various time periods, so let's take a look at just a few of them here.

• Adirondack – The rugged finish applied to the structural design of rustic cabins, boathouses and some homes, was first introduced by William West Durant. Dating back to the 1880’s, the design spread from the Adirondack Mountains to the Appalachians and Rocky Mountains.

• Adam – Renowned British architect Robert Adam gives his name to this Eighteenth Century Neoclassical design that revolutionised the industry with its innovative design. Growing in popularity in the United Kingdom and America, especially between the 1790’s and 1830’s.

• Art Nouveau Style – Translated from French to mean “New Style”, this form of architecture was introduced in Paris during a revolt against the formal and classical design in the Eighteenth Century. Common features within the Art Nouveau style include asymmetrical shapes, mosaics, arches, stained glass, and decorative surfaces such as curving or floral motifs.

• Indian – The diverse culture and religious traditions found in India have certainly inspired the architectural designs of their structures and decorate surfaces. Inspired by the Western design form, the style is simple and distinctive.

• Ottonian – Evolved during the reign of Emperor Otto in the Tenth Century, Ottonian Architecture drew much inspiration from the various existing structural designs such as Carolingian and Byzantine.

• Victorian – An incredibly popular style of architecture during the reign of Queen Victoria in Great Britain. The design did not keep to traditional architectural methods. It was characterised by decorative surfaces, irregular floor plans, grand scale and overhangs.