Ornate details and asymmetrical architecture combine to create instantly recognizable character.
Getty Images / Mlenny
Queen Anne is one of the most prolifichousing styles of the Victorian era.
After crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Queen Anne was no longer the same style.
Credit:Getty Images / Mlenny
The American interpretation was less subdued and classical in its style, developing more decorative detailing and architectural features.
It also morphed into an asymmetrical layout with more shapely features, like turrets and bay windows.
The most common style is also the most iconic: theSpindled Queen Anne.
Credit:Getty Images / ARK NEYMAN
These homes feature large amounts of spindlework and other wooden ornamentation sometimes referred to as gingerbread detailing.
The second most common style is calledfree classic.
Features include a less decorative exterior, often using classical columns and simple railings for porches instead of spindlework.
Asymmetrical Design
An asymmetrical designcontributes to Queen Annes character.
The Queen Anne profile is not entirely angular but often incorporatesarches, curves, and rounded elementsfor contrast.
Specific features such as gables and turrets may also be a location for an alternate, stand-outsiding selection.
The roof is another surface that commonly incorporates texture.
Ornate Exteriors
Ornate exterior detailsare iconic to Queen Anne homes, such asThe Pinc Lady.
Porches, windows, gables, and rooflines were highly decorated creating what we often think of asgingerbread trim.
Palettes often consisted of three or more colors.
Leaded glass and stained glass are also common detailing used to boost interior and exterior style.
Woodwork also features prominently in built-in furniture like grand fireplace surrounds.
Patterns
The interiors of Queen Anne homes aren’t sparse yet they’re not overly decorated.
