These 20 Pieces Of Architectural Brilliance In Kentucky Could WOW Anyone
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Jenn Shockley
Author
Kentucky has some beautiful homes and business buildings scattered across the state. We have what could be deemed works of architectural art, some of which are literally awe inspiring. The most brilliant architect designs vary in size, style and age, but not in beauty or uniqueness. Each and every one of these was created with thought and planning, with careful consideration put into tiny details that capture and hold the gaze.
Here are 20 works of architectural art in Kentucky:
Even the curb leading into a Victorian neighborhood was done with style.
This 3rd floor balcony has small Greek columns with a stair step roof. It offers a nice veranda to enjoy the weather without chatting with passersby.
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The small steeples like designs on the roof and sculpted window frames make this classy Victorian home pop out. Every window is framed with both sculpted and stained glass art.
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This unique curvy handrail is a perfect example of the creativity used in the design of Victorian era homes. Simple things were used to add to the allure, and the rail seldom goes unnoticed.
Some of the old brick used has faded, but held strong. This home had classic arched first floor and squared 2nd floor windows. The arches are reminiscent of the sun in the design.
The beautiful stained glass windows really stand out in this home. The pale lavender of the painted brick was pulled from the colors of this window. Looks like they are giving the Pink Palace a little pastel competition.
The beautiful 3 dimensional design under each window was beautiful before. After being painted to match the window frame, with delicate gold filigree as a frame, it gives the appearance of a home royalty could appreciate.
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The gentle sea foam green is the perfect compliment under the red brick arched entryway. The sculpted glass is part of the original design.
These elaborate moldings are common in the Victorian era, but some are more elaborate than others. The designs above the columns and even the columns themselves stand out with a very French influence.
This building was once part of a hemp plantation owned by John and Lucy Speed. It was completed in 1816, and is a Federal style brick home showing signs of the Jeffersonian style of architectural design. This leads some to think it was designed by Thomas Jefferson himself. The design is simple, yet strong, with the occasional stained glass window for a pop of color.
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This huge double stairway really stands out in the historic district of Old Louisville. The intricate designs that frame each window and the doorway seem to make a statement of style and wealth. This is an extremely beautiful home.
Each of these buildings, though similar, have very unique symbols around the doorways and near windows. One might think these symbols were the signature of the architect.
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The beautiful Greek columns are common in Plantation style homes. Some Victorians, such as this one, used them to frame the front of the home and beautiful 2nd and 3rd floor balconies.
Turrets were a popular addition to many a Victorian home. The French influence gives these beautiful buildings a very unique and classy appearance.
This beautiful Victorian home is part of the beautifully preserved Belgravia Court Historic District in Old Louisville. This home was once a gentlemen’s club, but later fell into the hands of a ladies group who painted it pink. Initially the building was the classic brick often seen in these types of designs. The pointed turrets and unique round rooms make this amazing work of architectural art most memorable.
This Greek Revival antebellum is one of the beautifully preserved old plantation mansions of Kentucky. It is over 12,000 square foot and features beautiful Corinthian fluted columns that stand 27’ high. It was built in the 1850s.
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Crescent Hill is home to this beautiful Victorian-Italianate house built around 1869, post Civil War. The other beautiful homes in the area were demolished to make room for a modern subdivision. The large cupola on top was normal for the era, and makes a gorgeous architectural statement.
Some buildings have the masonic symbols worked into the architectural design. There are 3 dimensional shapes above each window as well.
The beautiful plantation home was built around 1804 and was home to Henry Clay and his family until his death. The classic plantation style home is done in the Federal style of design by the renowned Benjamin Latrobe. The home couldn’t withstand the earthquake and had to be rebuilt in 1854 by Clay’s son, who hired Thomas Lewinski for the structure. He added some Greek Revival and Italianate features and decorated the home in the Victorian styles to make it more modern for the time.
This castle is located on 230 Pisgah Pike in Versailles. This architectural masterpiece was initially designed in the 1970s, but has since been remodeled. The entire structure looks like a real castle, as one would see it if visiting Scotland, England or anywhere in Europe. It is an amazing place to behold, and stay.
The architects who designed these amazing buildings in Kentucky are truly gifted. Each one has a unique perspective not often seen in modern architecture. Some add delicate touches, like sculptures worked into the architectural design, or vibrant stained glass windows. Others go bold with strong arches, wrought iron accents or columns. Personally, I find architecture fascinating and love the beauty of unique designs. Do you have a favorite piece of architectural art that draws your eye?
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