Approaching the Architectural Styles of Colonnade in Washington, D.C.

When you visit Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to see iconic government buildings such as the White House and the United States Capitol, as well as historical monuments like the Lincoln Memorial up close. These buildings’ grandeur and immense size are captivating.

Many of these structures incorporate architectural styles that have been passed down since ancient Greece. One notable feature is the use of different pillar styles to support the buildings.

In order to appreciate the tourist attractions in Washington, D.C. more deeply, let’s explore the architectural styles of colonnade.

Architectural Styles Established in Ancient Greece

Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Ionic Modern, Corinthian, Composite from upper left. from Wikipedia

When people think of ancient Greek architecture, the Parthenon in Athens often comes to mind. This rectangular structure with columns supporting a triangular roof represents the fundamental design of Western architecture. Even today, buildings modeled after the Parthenon can be found in various locations.

The colonnades that support the Parthenon and similar structures have a simple design. They are typically devoid of elaborate decorations between the colonnade and the ceiling. Despite their simplicity, these colonnade exude a solemn atmosphere that leaves viewers in awe.

This simple colonnade architectural style is known as the Doric order. Alongside the Doric order, there is another simple structural style called the Tuscan order. While there are various theories regarding how to differentiate between the two, the general distinction is that Doric order columns have fluting, which are vertical grooves, while Tuscan order columns do not.

Another architectural style features decorative motifs resembling scrolls, known as volutes, between the pillars and the ceiling. This style is called the Ionic order. When the volutes are designed to appear the same when viewed from the front and the sides of the colonnade, it is referred to as the Ionic modern style.

Furthermore, there is a design that incorporates decorations inspired by acanthus leaves between the ceiling and the colonnade. This style is known as the Corinthian order. When the Corinthian order is combined with the Ionic modern style, it is called the Composite order.

Acanthus

As time passed, the designs incorporated in these colonnade became more intricate, allowing each building to showcase its individuality.

Pillar Architectural Styles in Washington, D.C.

While there are numerous tourist spots in Washington, D.C., let’s focus on the colonnade architectural styles found in prominent buildings such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the White House, and the United States Capitol.

Among these buildings, the Doric order is employed in the external colonnade of the Lincoln Memorial and in the underground space called the Crypt that supports the dome of the United States Capitol.

The Tuscan order columns can be found in the West Wing of the White House. However, to have the opportunity to see them up close, you would need to participate in the Garden Tours held in spring and autumn or enter the West Wing through media coverage, as it is challenging for the general public to access.

On the other hand, the Ionic order columns can be observed at the Jefferson Memorial. While it is slightly further away from the National Mall, and many tours only provide a glimpse from a vehicle, the Department of the Treasury is recommended for those who may not have enough time to leisurely observe the columns.

Additionally, the interior pillars of the Lincoln Memorial also incorporate the Ionic order. After viewing the seated statue of President Lincoln and the inscriptions on both sides, take a closer look at the pillars as well.

If you have the opportunity to enter the main chamber of the United States Capitol, pay attention to the area behind the Speaker’s Chair, where Ionic order columns can also be found.

You can observe the Ionic modern order columns at the North Portico of the White House, as well as the semi-circular balcony supported by the columns.

Finally, the most elegant and prestigious style, the Corinthian order, can be seen in the external columns of the United States Capitol.

Summary of Pillar Architectural Styles Found in Washington, D.C.

Appreciating the Colonnade Architectural Styles

The buildings in Washington, D.C. are all incredibly large, and for many people, especially those visiting for the first time, the sheer size can be overwhelming.

The buildings mentioned here are must-see attractions when visiting Washington, D.C., but there are many more highlights in the city. When you admire the buildings, be sure to also pay attention to the architectural styles of the colonnade.