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Unabridged Dover (1994) republication of Holly's Country Seats: Containing Lithographic Designs for Cottages, Villas, Mansions, etc., with Their Accompanying Outbuildings; also, Country Churches, City Buildings, Railway Stations, etc., etc.,, published by D. Appleton and Company, New York, 1863. Preface. Introduction to the Dover Edition by George B. Tatum. 36 line plates. 256pp. 6.125 x 9.25. Paperbound. ISBN 0-486-27856-5.
.In the introductory chapter of this rare, Civil War-era design book, prominent New York City architect Henry Hudson Holly urges designers of mid-19th-century domestic architecture to draw upon classical elements — when appropriate — from a variety of sources. This handsome reprint of Holly's celebrated work presents 34 complete designs for comfortable country homes and other buildings, a number of which incorporate the traditional features he admired.
Following a new introduction by art historian George B. Tatum and the author's wide-ranging comments on the history of architecture, 36 plates provide exterior views, floor plans and before-and-after studies of altered structures. All are viewed in perspective, usually in a landscape setting, with many displaying overhanging roofs, bay windows, spacious verandas or terraces and other features. Among the plans are designs for a charming gate lodge (with an unusual convenience for its resident servants — a bathroom); a modified farmhouse and an ornamental well curb, a Swiss cottage, Italian villa, Tudor mansion and other homes, as well as churches, commercial structures and a railway station.
A knowledgeable and extensive commentary on architectural styles, construction materials, building features, cost estimates and other relevant matters accompanies the detailed illustrations. In addition, the text contains useful observations on such topics as how to build an ice house, where and how to cultivate ivy, how to remodel an old mill and make it useful, and even how to prevent accidents in railway stations. The result is a unique and authentic document that will be of great interest to architectural historians, Victorian homeowners and restorers, antiquarians and any lover of 19th-century architecture.
Cover design by Frank J. Moore.
(The above commentary is provided by Dover Publications, Inc.)
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