The Georgian Colonial house style in Russia has its roots in the architectural trends of the 18th and 19th centuries. It was heavily influenced by the Georgian architectural style popular in England during the reigns of the first three Hanoverian kings named George (George I, George II, and George III) and later spread to the American colonies.
In Russia, the Georgian architectural style was introduced by Scottish architect James Gibbs in the early 18th century. Gibbs worked in St. Petersburg and left a significant impact on the city's architectural landscape. His works, including the St. Sampson's Cathedral and several palaces, showcased the principles of Georgian architecture.
Georgian Colonial houses in Russia were predominantly constructed during the reign of Empress Catherine the Great in the late 18th century. Catherine, who admired English culture and architecture, encouraged the construction of buildings in the Georgian style. This style was seen as a departure from the earlier Baroque and Rococo styles that dominated Russian architectural tastes.
The Georgian Colonial house style in Russia adopted several key features from its English counterpart. These included a rectangular shape, symmetrical facade, and a prominent front entrance adorned with a grand portico supported by columns. The facades were typically made of brick or stone and showcased clean lines and balanced proportions.
While the Georgian Colonial house style was popular, it coexisted with other architectural styles in Russia, particularly the Neoclassical style. Neoclassical influences from Europe, particularly France, began to dominate Russian architecture towards the end of Catherine the Great's reign and continued into the 19th century.
Despite the rise of Neoclassical architecture, the Georgian Colonial style left a lasting impact on the architectural development of Russia. Many prominent buildings, such as the Hermitage Theater in St. Petersburg and the Tauride Palace in Moscow, showcase elements of this architectural style.
In summary, the Georgian Colonial house style in Russia emerged in the 18th century under the influence of Scottish architect James Gibbs and was further popularized by Empress Catherine the Great. This architectural style borrowed elements from the Georgian style popular in England, resulting in elegant and symmetrical buildings that left an indelible mark on Russian architectural history.
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