Victorian Style

Victorians had very eclectic taste, so this style varies widely and is somewhat difficult to describe.  One of New Westminster’s earliest examples of “Carpenter Gothic” is found at Irving House and is characterized by lacy gingerbread bargeboards.

Generally speaking, these buildings have asymmetrical/steep pitched roof lines and gables; wraparound porches; bay windows; and ornamental spindles and brackets.  Queen Anne houses like Galbraith House (131-8th St.) also have towers and turrets.  Siding is generally cedar clap, bevel and shake.

Edwardian Style

This house has some neo-classical elements. The roof is generally low and hipped, with a front dormer. The veranda is deep, with an overhang and the porch columns are generally turned. There are usually sidelights beside the door, and sometimes a fan light or other neo-classical feature such as a split pediment above the entrance door (e.g., Hoy House 202-3rd Avenue). Windows often have diamond- shaped panes.

Neoclassical Style

This style has a symmetrical façade and is generally rectangular with simple classical detailing. At the entrance there are pillars or columns.  The windows are multi-paned and often have shutters.

The Neo Classical’s structural features resemble classical temples and civic architecture. Floor plans and elevation are symmetrical; the exterior lacks verandas, porches & overhangs; and there is a full height balcony above the entryway,

Arts & Crafts Style

This style is characterized by a low pitched roof and a horizontal shape.  It has wide eaves with triangular brackets and thick square porch columns.  The siding is frequently half-timbered – stucco and wood or shingles and siding.  Generally the windows are casement style with stained glass above.  Natural stone or granite were frequently used for pillars, posts or porches.

Period Revival Style

This type of homes marks the return of traditional style homes that originated between 1920′s & 1940′s. The most popular traditional styles that were resurrected: Colonial Revival, Georgian Revival, Mission Revival & Spanish Revival. Locally the revival styles were adapted, diluted and combined with various other styles.

Mid Century Modern

This style gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. Generally one storey or split level, it has sleek horizontal and vertical lines featuring large panels of glass.  The houses have long, low rooflines and pitched gable roofs.  There are seldom decorative features on the exterior.  They are generally rectangular or L shaped with large windows and sliding patio doors.  The houses often have vaulted ceilings and usually open floor plans.

Spanish Revival

Originally from the American Southwest this style was inspired by Spanish Colonial, Mission and Pueblo Indian architecture.  Generally the house has stucco siding and often there are glazed tiles, arched doors or windows and other “Spanish” features.