Historic Guidelines - City of Melbourne, Florida

INTRODUCTION
13
Minimal Traditional
BACKGROUND
When construction resumed in 1946, modern styles were preferred over the classical styles.
The earliest modern style used was the Minimal Traditional, a simplified form loosely based on the
Tudor style of the 1920s and 1930s. Predominant features included dominant front gable and massive
chimneys. The high-pitched roofs were lowered and the facades were simplified by omitting most of
the detailing. By the early 1950s, this style started being replaced by the Ranch style, which dominated
American domestic building through the 1960s.
PLAN
1) Front displays protruding volume (front gable).
2) Usually one story with floors above grade.
3) Ceiling heights reduced to 8 feet.
4) One-car carport or garage in line or slightly setback from
main façade .
5) Some carports have been enclosed for use as garages.
DRAFT
FOUNDATION
1) Raised masonry (usually block), fully enclosed.
2) Openings in the foundation to allow for ventilation.
3) Sometimes slab or continuous footings.
FACADES
1) Asymmetrical facade.
2) Usually includes a large chimney.
3) Usually have one front gable.
4) De-emphasis/ lack of articulation at main entrance.
PORCHES
1) Small portico instead of wide porch common prior to
this period. Usually to the side of the front gable
volume, or integrated into the volume.
2) Wrought iron or simple wood porch supports, often with
railings.
3) Concrete porch surface.
4) Porch roof is usually extended gable.
Carport
Garage