A stripped down and sober style, this form is characterized by a return to Classical influences. Rectilinear floor plans, gable or hipped roofs and more restrained ornamentation set the Edwardian and Neo-Classical apart.
Although they were a deliberate departure from the Victorian styles, some common elements were employed.
The simple and economical Edwardian house, a vernacular interpretation of the high Neo- Classical style, quickly became the most popular residential building style in Vancouver during the first decade of the 20th century.
What to look for…..
- bell cast, low hip roof with front dormer, or front gable roof with side dormers
- typically two storeys
- full width open front verandah with turned or square columns
- front entrance asymmetrically placed at one side
- bay windows
- wide roof overhangs
- exterior cladding in narrow boards or cedar shingles
- ground and upper floors would often be different materials and colours
- decorative elements included eave brackets, classically inspired mouldings and porch columns, multi-paned windows and diamond pattern leaded windows