New England Architecture 101 – Queen Anne

The final “Victorian” style and contemporary with the all-American Shingle, grand Queen Anne homes are like dreamy medieval dollhouses complete with turrets, vibrant paint jobs, ornamental trim, and wide front porches.

Time Period: 1880–1910

Defining Characteristics: Bay windows, turrets, towers, and bold multicolored exteriors

Famous Example: The “Painted Ladies” of San Francisco, California

Where to Find Queen Anne Homes: Throughout New England in every size, from wee cottages to grand mansions

How to Spot a Queen Anne

1. Exterior: Asymmetrical; typically painted in three or more colors

2. Roof: Steep with cross gables or large dormers

3. Tower: A round or polygonal front corner tower with a conical or domed roof

4. Windows: Large, single-pane windows and frequent projecting bay windows

5. Porch: Expansive and boasting decorative “gingerbread” spindle-work wood trim

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Bruce Irving

Bruce Irving is a home renovation consultant, real estate agent, and author with nearly 35 years’ experience with houses, including 17 as producer of the television series This Old House and its sister shows, where he earned an Emmy and learned the hallmarks of quality design and construction. Bruce writes about architecture and design for several publications and is the author of New England Icons, a book about the region’s built environment.

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