Towering Beauty - An entry portico makes a grand statement with classically inspired design
The historic Westbury House, with its lovely, though one-dimensional entry portico, was the vessel that led Tom and Ruth Brouster to the vision of a richly layered structure that both welcomes their guests and provides a striking canopy with its majestic presence.
With detailed planning by architect Patrick L. Nolan, AIA, of Pansing, Nolan, Matlock, Ltd., the entry portico at the Brousters’ history-inspired residence makes a monumental declaration with its classic Georgian style. One of the most significant of its influences is Neoclassicism, popularized during the reign of King George III of England.
The style - and the portico - embody European and American styling inspired by Classical Greek and Roman architecture and encompass both Palladian and Adamesque Neoclassical style elements.
From the cornice to the stepped plinth, the elements that comprise the smooth buff limestone portico follow the ordering of a Greek temple, without the pediment. In sequence from top down are the cornice, frieze, entablature, architrave, and columns, comprised of capital, a smooth shaft, and a base. All rest on three steps that create the plinth.
The portico serves as the landing or a walk-out balcony, framed by a wrought-iron balustrade with polished brass finials on the home’s second floor. Wide limestone crown molding and soffit detailing create the cornice element; the size mimics the soffit overhang at the center of the home.
A 4-foot-wide by 8-foot-tall six panel front door is a focal point with a striking leaded glass transom. The substantial size is a reflection of the need to proportion the design elements with the scale of the home.
“As with all of the design elements in the Brousters’ home, Tom was a tireless advocate for doing it the right way - he never compromised his vision or expectations of excellence,” says Nolan.
For picture, resources and credits, check out the link below: See June/July digital edition - page 70
