Architectural Style - Beaux Arts

Combining classical Greek and Roman architecture with Renaissance ideas, the Neoclassical Beaux Arts style was favored for grand public buildings and opulent mansions from 1885 through the 1920s. Also known as Beaux Arts Classicism, Academic Classicism, or Classical Revival, the Beaux Arts (French for "fine art") style originated in the École des Beaux Arts in Paris. Many American architects studied at this renowned school to learn about the aesthetic principles of classical design in order to bring that knowledge to the United States. Beaux Arts buildings are characterized by order, symmetry, formal design, grandiosity, and elaborate ornamentation. Massive and grandiose, they are often constructed primarily out of stone. Columns, cornices, pilasters, and triangular pediments are characteristic features. Beaux Arts homes often have balconies and balustrades as well. The interiors are usually lavishly decorated, with grand staircases, large arches, and less obvious details like swags, medallions, flowers, and shields. There have been prime examples of the Beaux Arts architectural style Calhoun Isles community of Minneapolis.