Federalist and Queen Anne architecture are two major styles of American architecture, especially in older states. They bring me strong nostalgia for New Jersey and Pennsylvania -- even though I've been living in Florida for most of my life, I'll never forget the beautiful atmosphere of the Northeast, as my site's theme may suggest.

The Federalist style was a result of the push to create a national identity after the American Revolution. As a newly created country, we didn't have much to say for our culture besides the stuff we inherited from Britain, which we didn't want to associate with, anyway. So, just like we did with our government, we took inspiration from Greece, Rome, and Neoclassical ideals. Federalist buildings incorporate Greco-Roman columns and domes and a sense of geometry and symmetry, but tend to be made of brick, a more practical material.

The Queen Anne Revival style came later in the 1800s. Of all the world’s architectural styles, I think this is one of the most charming and distinctive, with its bright colors, lacy gable roofs, paned turrets, bay windows, and generous, shaded porches. Many Queen Anne homes look as though they’re from a fairy tale.

Both styles are most found in historical cities across the country, but I associate them most strongly with the Northeast, where I grew up, and which is a place I remember fondly. (I currently reside in Florida.)