HSTARC 2: On American Architecture

American Architecture is subdivided into different kinds. During the Pre-Colonial stage, there’s Inca Architecture and Mayan Architecture. The colonial stage on the other hand is comprised of many different styles but i will be discussing only a few. 

INCA ARCHITECTURE:

            People during this time just like the prehistoric era, made use of finely made stones for their structures. One famous creation during this period is the Machu Picchu in Peru also known as the ‘Lost City of the Incas’. The Incas were masters of the Ashlar technique which allowed them to create finely cut stones that fit perfectly for construction-too perfect not even a blade of glass fits between them. How they were able to build this city with structures each uniquely designed to sustain their daily activities.

MACHU PICCHU

MAYA ARCHITECTURE:

            The style of the Mayas was deeply influenced by Egyptian Architecture. They made use of platforms just like the Egyptians and even had their own style of a pyramid. Majority of their structures were for religious purposes. Ornamentations were also present in their structures.

NEW ENGLAND COLONIAL (1600’s – 1740)

The characteristics of structures during this period are: triangular roof, little ornamentations, and the frequent use of wood. Houses during this time were symmetrical with only a few windows, a simple looking house with a chimney.

COLONIAL CAPE COD (1600’S-1950’S)

            Colonial Cape Cods were mostly constructed out of wood. Just like New England colonial houses, they were made to look simple and symmetrical. Cod’s were made to blend into the landscapes so most were painted with natural colors and had very few ornamentations. These homes were built to withstand stormy weather.

SPANISH COLONIAL (1600’S-1900’S)

            People once again made use of bricks as a building material to create simple looking homes. Arched openings and columns were once again seen on their structures.

GERMAN COLONIAL (1600’S-1800’S)

            German Colonial houses looked like New England and Cape Cod homes. All of which had simple aesthetics.

DUTCH COLONIAL (1625-1800’S)

            Dutch Colonial homes were constructed with bricks. It had Dutch style doors and gambrel roofs, and two chimneys on opposite sides of the house.