Italianate

Inspired by designs of the villas of Italy, the Italianate style surpassed Greek Revival architecture as the most popular mode for homes in the United States by the 1860s and 1870s.

About

It spread throughout the country was enabled by the development of cast-iron and press-metal technology, making the style increasingly affordable. Although most commonly seen in single-family homes, elements of the Italianate style were also applied to multi-family dwellings and storefronts. While there are few surviving pure examples of Italianate architecture in Minneapolis, they remain important evidence to a nation-wide trend in architecture during the late-nineteenth century.

Common characteristics:

  • Low-pitched or flat roof
  • Square cupola
  • Wide, overhanging eaves with brackets and cornices
  • Tall, narrow, double-paned windows
  • Balanced, symmetrical rectangular shape

Italianate Style in Minneapolis:

Community Planning & Economic Development

Historic Preservation

Phone

612-673-3000

Address

Public Service Center
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415