Italianate
The most striking features of this style are usually its windows and distinctive cornices below low-pitched or flat roofs. Cornice lines under wide, overhanging eaves feature large brackets in a wide range of shapes and spacing.
Large brackets, either singly or in pairs, commonly embellish the wide eaves of Italianate houses.
Profiles
Italianate houses can feature vinyl siding in traditional clapboard (with a choice of 3” to 8” reveals), beaded (with a choice of 6” to 7” reveals), or Dutchlap (with a choice of 3” to 5½” reveals). Not as common, but seen in modern interpretation, is board & batten (available in vertical reveals of 6” to 8”).
Shapes
Accents for the façade, window bays and/or other portions of the exterior include a diverse selection of shapes, including scallops, hexagon, octagon, fish scale, and half cove.
Color
Historically, a light to medium palette in all colors except reds, greens, and browns. Modern interpretation may include darker colors, especially for trim elements. Vinyl and polypropylene siding come in hundreds of colors certified to withstand fading.
Trim and Accessories
Options suited for Italianate style include crown and dentil molding on fascia or friezes; simple to elaborate vertical eave brackets; pediment window crowns; band boards at the foundation or between floors; and beaded soffit.
