corner view / italy

corner view / italy:  typical architecture

Andrea Palladio, "arguably the most influential architect of all time," is a son of Northern Italy.  

Essentials of Palladian Style

• Simple, geometric layout with main hall in the middle of plan 
• Pediment-topped entrance 
• Use of loggias over central rooms 
• Perfect symmetry 
• Sharp-edged cubical blocks 
• Simple, sparse statuary 
• Plain stucco exterior 
• Pilasters running from pavement to cornice 
• Functional but with harmonious proportions 
• Arch flanked by rectangular spaces 
Source:  Martin Gani for Discovery Channel Magazine

One (of the many) of his famous buildings is located near my daughter's school, so we've seen it every single school day for nearly five years now. 

Palladio's collection, The Four Books of Architecture, provided inspiration for Jefferson's Monticello;  even our beloved White House  is built partially in Palladian style. (Click on over to the White House -- it's an exciting time in American History.)

You could plan a trip to Northern Italy with the sole purpose of visiting his buildings. People do, you know.

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For more Corner Views, see Jane in Spain.