Adirondack Architecture

Throughout our course, we have discussed symbols and characteristics that make up the park, including art, music, and recreation. We have also touched on the architecture that makes up the park, but because architecture is so ingrained in our daily lives, I will go into further detail here about architecture in the park.

As with most regions around the world, buildings and landscapes are often influenced by local natural resources. Additionally, shipping materials into the park is quite expensive, so architects have even greater incentive to use local resources. The two main resources are timber and stone. Whole, split, or any other type of log is quite common, as logs are abundant in the Adirondacks and they allow for a simple, yet rustic look without having to ship materials. Stones, albeit less common and more expensive, are aesthetically pleasing and can help support the foundation of buildings. Outside many buildings, cedar logs are often used as railings for docks or walkways. These logs typically lack ornate decorations, adding to the main stylistic aspects of Adirondack Architecture: naturalistic and simple. These two main materials are also used to harmonize with their surroundings as much as possible because of the belief that the architecture was a part of the landscape and connected to nature.

Most of our perceptions of Adirondack architecture come from Great Camps, as Great Camps are the most well known buildings in the park and most other buildings are modeled after the camps. These Great Camps were modeled after the Arts and Crafts style of architecture, which emphasizes solid shapes and an asymmetrical composition. The Arts and Crafts style highlighted wide porches, brick fireplaces, steep roofs, and wooden fittings. Great Camp’s encompass all of these features, along with their local resources to combine to form what is now known as Adirondack architecture. This is where the idea for an Adirondack Porch came to be. The Adirondack architecture has been altered throughout the years, but its defining features have remained intact. It is these features that have made it an everlasting style that is ecologically friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

Works Cited

Russell, Tom. "Mountain Architects: Hendricks Architecture Idaho." Mountain Architects

Hendricks Architecture Idaho. N.p., 23 Nov. 2011. Web. 20 Nov. 2015.