Dive into Rockwood South Hill’s Historic Architectural Style

Rockwood South Hill is a neighborhood that stands out in its unique charm and ability to tell stories through its buildings. Many of its architecturally significant structures capture the attention of anyone who strolls its streets. Unlike many other historic neighborhoods in Spokane’s city center, Rockwood is unique. Most of its grand residences function as welcoming single-family homes. Let’s explore the timeless beauty and distinctive character that makes them stand out.

A Charming Neighborhood in Spokane, Washington

Nestled on the south side of Spokane, Washington, Rockwood South Hill is outstanding in combining its historical background with a contemporary lifestyle. It extends outwards to provide a quiet yet convenient living environment close to the city center. It has lovely tree-lined streets, green spaces, and beautiful homes, among other essential features of a standard neighborhood within the downtown area. The major selling point? Its quaint architectural history dates back to the early twentieth century.

The Rockwood Historic District

One of the major attractions at Rockwood South Hill is the Rockwood Historic District, which is essentially a neighborhood within a neighborhood. This district includes historic and architectural structures and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

It covers about two blocks between Hatch and Arthur Streets from 29 Avenue on the south to 14 Avenue on the north. It has nearly 300 contributing buildings. When you move around this part of Rockwood, you will feel like you are in a different era.

The streets of Rockwood were not planned and designed by just one architect. They were laid out by the Olmsted Brothers. This duo are landscape architects in the United States who have developed projects like Central Park in New York City. Their concept was to merge landscape aesthetics with architectural design, and indeed, they achieved this goal.

Notable Landmarks

While Rockwood South Hill is primarily a residential neighborhood, it is also home to several remarkable non-residential structures contributing to its historic and architectural significance.

Hutton Elementary School

How often can you see a century-old building built in 1921? Hutton Elementary School gives you that chance. It features early 20th-century educational architecture with an eclectic Spanish design. Because of its arched windows, stucco walls, and red-tiled roof, it has a very Mediterranean flavor. Further constructions were made in 1949, but had the utmost concern for the initial architectural designs.

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

One well-recognized building in Rockwood South Hill is the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Located on a hill at the very northern edge of the neighborhood, this 55-meter-tall Gothic Revival cathedral is one of the most impressive sights. Its design includes pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and other decorative stonework. Because of its towering size and positioning on a hill, the structure stands out in Spokane.

Architectural Styles

Rockwood South Hill homes go as far back as 1904 and feature various architectural designs. Each has its own flavor, which results from the fashion and trends of the period when it was constructed. Here are some of the critical architectural styles you’ll find in the neighborhood:

• Artistic touches and organic components mark the American Craftsman style. It normally has a low-pitched gable roof, wide eaves, exposed rafters, and brackets. Most have a front verandah and well-carved ornate wooden features that give them a warm and inviting character.

• Another popular style in Rockwood South Hill is the Tudor Revival. Such houses have high-pitched gable roofs, elongated, narrow windows, and half-timbering designs. This style is inspired by medieval English architecture and gives the neighborhood a royal touch. The external façade often includes brick, stone, or stucco.

• Classical Revival homes in Rockwood South Hill are grand and stately. Their construction and design resemble ancient Greek and Roman structures. These homes bear symmetrical frontage, semi-columns, pilasters, and extensively decorated doors. The style gives an impression of timeless classicism and a great sense of sophisticated luxury.

• Built in the late nineteenth century, the Colonial Revival style was an architectural form developed to express American colonial history. In Rockwood South Hill, these homes have neat, symmetrical lines, with the front doors in the middle of the house and many paned windows. Pediments, columns, and dormers may be present on them. Colonial Revival homes are grand and traditional with a sense of prestige.

• The American Foursquare is a practical and straightforward style that became popular in the early 20th century. These homes are typically boxy and two stories tall, with a simple, square floor plan. They often feature a large front porch with wide stairs leading up to the entrance. This style is known for its efficient use of space, making it a popular choice for families.
  
• Last but certainly not least, the Storybook style adds a touch of whimsy to Rockwood South Hill. These homes look like something out of a fairy tale, with their steeply pitched roofs, rounded doorways, and charming details. They often have a playful, romantic quality, distinguishing them from traditional architectural styles.
  

Things to Keep In Mind About Historic Properties

When considering buying a historic home, you should keep a few extra things in mind.

• First, understand preservation restrictions; these homes often have legal requirements for upkeep and alteration. Renovations might be limited if the property is listed or in a historic district.

• Inspect for structural issues common in older homes, like foundation problems or outdated electrical systems.

• Consider the higher maintenance and potential energy inefficiency against the charm and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

• Lastly, explore if there are any financial incentives, like tax breaks for historic preservation, to help offset costs.
  

If you’re drawn to the charm of historic architecture and the storied past of a community, Rockwood South Hill might be the perfect place to call home. Whether you’re exploring the neighborhood for the first time or have lived here for years, there’s always something new in this beautiful corner of Spokane.

Explore Rockwood South Hill’s historic charm and architectural beauty by browsing the latest listings at https://sweethomespokane.com/south-hill/rockwood/.