If you want to go back several years back for your architectural design then the Federal architecture popularized between 1780 and 1830 will be a good choice especially if you thrive on Roman classicism. Thanks to Robert Adam who owned one of Britain’s largest architectural firms, the classic Roman Empire can be seen even in the United States. The classic Renaissance architecture can be seen through geometric shapes like circle, ovals and hexagons as well as in decoratives like urns and garlands. A Federal style house with a front façade speaks of wealth with tall and slender columns, simple doors with grand ornamentations, iron railings and symmetrically-aligned windows.

For a good idea of what a Federal structure looks like, take a look at the White House Oval Office. This is however just a room but if you want the grand scale then the University of Virginia, which was based on Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is the perfect example of Federal architecture. If you want a residential structure then the Otis House Museum would fit the bill. This former residence turned repository of New England’s history was designed by Charles Bulfinch for his friend Harrison Gray Otis. One of the best preserved structures depicting Federal architectural is the 1820 Davenport House which is also a must-see.