Second Empire (1860 - 1880)

The Second Empire style takes its name from popular building during a French Second Empire of Napoleon III (1852-70).  It became the dominant style for American house construction between 1860-80.  Considered modern and fashionable the style imitated Paris as a center of art and couture.  The style is dominated by its distinct roof, known as the mansard, after the 17th century French architect Francois Mansart.  This boxy roof provided extra living space in the attic level while maintaining itself as an attic storey to side-step French building codes of the time.

The mansard roof has two slopes, the lower roof is usually quite steep and the upper quite shallow.  The lower roof slope allows for large dormer windows to admit light into the attic level.  Massive cornices or "French curbs" frame the roof shapes and provide drainage channels.  Oversize cornice beads and trim often surround large dormer windows.

Aside from the French mansard roof, the detailing is principally Victorian.  Mouldings and windows often resemble the Italianate style and asymmetrical massing with an attached tower resembles the Italian Villa.  Cast iron railings and crestings became popular as decoration.

[from A Field Guide to the Architecture and History of Allentown, page 43]

Learn more at Buffalo Architecture and History.