Queen Anne Revival: A Style That Transcends Time and Geography
The term 'Queen Anne' when used to describe architectural styles can be misleading, as it often refers to the secondary style known as Queen Anne Revival, rather than the original architecture from the late 17th century (1685-1714). Queen Anne Revival, also known as the Queen Anne Style, was a manifestation of the Arts and Crafts movement and significantly influenced American and British architecture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Origins of Queen Anne Revival
Early in the 19th century, architecture primarily fell under two dominant styles: classical and Gothic. However, by the time of Queen Anne's reign in the late 18th century, the Gothic style had become highly elaborated and classical-influenced, ultimately evolving into the English Renaissance style. This trend reached its zenith with the elegant townhouses that epitomized the period, characterized by their grandeur and fashionable appeal, particularly among the urban elite.
The Original Queen Anne Houses
Dating back to the reign of Queen Anne, the original Queen Anne houses were a fashionable style for the urban wealthy. These houses are best exemplified by the Queen Anne's Gate in London, an ultimate original terraced house from her era. Another notable example is the more modest Church Row in Hampstead, dating from 1720 and still bearing the characteristics of the Queen Anne architecture.
Queen Anne Revival in the Arts and Crafts Movement
The Arts and Crafts movement, which began in the 1870s, brought with it a highly individualistic and eclectic architectural style. Unlike the Gothic or classical styles that preceded it, Queen Anne Revival incorporated elements of both, creating a unique and ornate aesthetic. This style became highly popular in England and quickly spread to other English-speaking countries, marking a significant departure from the restrained Victorian architecture that had dominated earlier decades.
Red Brick and Eclectic Aesthetics
The distinguishing feature of Queen Anne Revival was the use of red brick, a nod to the original Queen Anne houses. An early example of this architectural style is Tite Street in London, an ultra-fashionable address that was chosen by notable figures such as Oscar Wilde. The style was further developed into an exuberantly eclectic form, often characterized by vibrant colors and jarringly incongruent elements, all haphazardly stacked atop each other.
Spread and Recognition of Queen Anne Revival
The Queen Anne Revival style soon became an exuberantly eclectic style, manifesting in various urban environments worldwide. Durning Library in Kennington, London, is a prime example of late 1880s Queen Anne Revival, still featuring prominent red brick, though with Gothic arches and classical columns, as well as a little Tudor touch. This spread of styles demonstrates how the term Queen Anne came to be associated with a broader aesthetic, retaining its association with the red brick originals of the 1870s while evoking the grandeur of the earlier Queen Anne era.
Conclusion
Queen Anne Revival is a multifaceted architectural style that has left an indelible mark on the built environment. From its origins in the grand townhouses of urban England to its reach into the hearts of the English-speaking world, this style continues to captivate architects and enthusiasts alike. Its unique blend of classical, Gothic, and Arts and Crafts influences makes it a fascinating subject for those interested in the evolution of architectural styles.