Editing Federal Style Architecture (section)

== Characteristics ==

Federal style architecture departed from Georgian robustness toward lighter, more refined expression. Ornament became delicate: attenuated columns, elongated proportions, and decorative motifs drawn from Roman archaeology replaced Georgian massiveness. Elliptical and circular forms appeared in fanlights, oval rooms, and curved staircases that demonstrated builders' increasing technical sophistication. Facades maintained Georgian symmetry but with subtle refinements—lower-relief window lintels, thinner muntins, and restrained door surrounds that suggested cultured elegance rather than solid prosperity.<ref name="tatum">{{cite book |last=Tatum |first=George B. |title=Penn's Great Town: 250 Years of Philadelphia Architecture |year=1961 |publisher=University of Pennsylvania Press |location=Philadelphia}}</ref>

Materials and colors shifted toward lighter effects. While brick remained predominant, Federal buildings often featured lighter-toned brick or painted surfaces. White marble and lighter stones provided contrast at entries and window details. Interior woodwork displayed elaborate carved ornament—urns, swags, garlands, and classical figures—executed with precision that reflected both imported pattern books and locally trained craftsmen of remarkable skill. Federal interiors, with their elliptical arches, curved walls, and flowing room sequences, offered experiences of spatial variety unknown in Georgian buildings.<ref name="moss"/>