World War II and Post-War Building Styles
Post-War Colonial Revival, 1945-1950
Although the minimal traditional style was by far the most commonly used for domestic architecture following WWII, some people desired a traditional influence in the design of their abode. The Colonial revival style was one of those that carried on, albeit in a modified form, throughout the first half of the 20th Century.
Colonial revivalism became popular in Utah before the turn of the 20th century and never really died out. However, by the 1940s modernism began to influence the style. As with minimal traditionalism, Colonial revivalism became a simpler expression in residential and commercial architecture.
There is little difference between the two styles during this era—the primary distinguishing characteristic being the building form rather than applied ornamentation (of which there is little). Post-war Colonial revival buildings typically have a blockier appearance than earlier examples. Details that set them apart include a hipped or gable roof—in many examples with a very low pitch, classically inspired door surround and front porch columns or pilasters, vertical window openings (many times with shutters: functioning or non-functioning), and perhaps a fanlight over the front entrance.
Characteristics:
--basic, boxy overall massing
--low-pitched hip or gable roof
--understated classical detailing, especially door and window treatments
--vertical, double-hung windows
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