What's Palladian?
By Arnold Berke | From Preservation | July/August 2009
"Palladian" is less a strict style than an approach, but certain architectural features stand out as hallmarks of the Italian master. When visiting buildings that Palladio designed or influenced, look for:
Strict symmetry of the facade and of the interior plan, with an orderly progression of spaces
Prominent central pavilion (often pyramid- or hip-roofed) with a pedimented portico one or two tiers high, or a round-arched loggia like the one shown above
Flanking wings Some wings are on a straight axis as shown here. Others take the form of curving arms, as in the watercolor of Drayton Hall. Both types usually terminate in pavilions
Use of classical forms in porticos, columns, and other features
Predominance of walls over windows, doors, and other openings
Emphasis on the piano nobile, a main living level raised above the ground floor and accentuated on the facade
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Comments
Submitted by Susan at: October 24, 2009
Don't forget to mention the most often recognized element, seen here - the round-top Palladian window. Even one added to the most mundane of tract houses adds so much appeal, although it's usually seen singly, rather than in symmetrical pairs.
Submitted by pfunes at: June 23, 2009
Great article! A short but strong definition of Palladianism!