Georgian and Neoclassical Architecture: Similarities and Differences of the Libraries at Hanover College and University of Virginia

Kurtis Schimel

Dr. Jobe

American Identity

19 September 2010

Georgian and Neoclassical Architecture:

Similarities and Differences of the Libraries at

Hanover College and University of Virginia

1) Libraries are one of the first places thought of to broaden are knowledge of any subject. It seems obvious, then, that colleges and universities would want to highlight the libraries on their respective campuses. A library can send the message of warmth and hominess, or an impressive almost daunting feel of intimidation. Designers of both Hanover College and the University of Virginia did an excellent job of bringing attention to their libraries and making them standout buildings on extraordinary campuses. The attention given to these libraries, however, is from two completely different styles of architecture. Both the Georgian style of Hanover and the Neoclassical style of UVA produce buildings that are functional to their specific use and at the same time convey completely different messages through their respective designs.

2) Duggan Library at Hanover College fits into the flow of Georgian architecture throughout all of campus. When first looking at the library, the fountain draws attention with a sense of peace and relaxation, as if to say "relax and learn in the way that fits you best". This sense of warm tranquility continues up the out-spread steps that welcome all to come learn from the vast knowledge that waits inside. Tall archways at the entrance are a focal point of the building that call attention to the building's importance on campus. The columns that form the archways at the entrance are made of red brick, the primary building material used in Duggan, which allows a continual flow throughout the rest of the building without calling to much attention to this one detail. Windows are the next elements that are brought out with the flow of Georgian architecture. One might notice the overabundance of windows that cover Duggan; these extra windows allow natural light into the library, contributing to the feeling of home that the interior design creates. Nine-nine windows in a three-three setting change to six-nine windows with a three-three under a two-three setting from the first to the second floor respectively. These sash style windows are an important part to all Georgian style buildings, and the change in the number of windows gives the appearance that the second story of the building is lighter than the first, giving an upward flow to Duggan. This upward flow brings attention to the cornice and the aesthetically pleasing design for the roof overhang. The steeply pitched roof is another characteristic of Georgian style architecture. All of these features combine to make a feeling of warm greeting and a sense of professionalism that is expected in library. Warmth is not just felt in the physical outer appearance of Duggan, for the interior also conveys the same sense through its relaxed feel.

3) When walking through the doors of Duggan, there is an open room almost like a living room found in one's home. The furniture, couches, and lounge chairs, in this room help create the feeling of being in someone's house. Next, the open layout of the first floor, the irregular direction and placing of book shelves and, computer tables, and a semi-circular staircase break up the monotony that is sometimes associated with a library. Moving up the stair-case, lines of bookshelves from end to end and study rooms off to the sides create a more typical library look, except for the circular hole in the middle of the floor allowing for a partial view of the first floor. An older domestic