What Is A Planters House

What Is a Planter's House?

A planter's house is a type of architectural style that originated in the southern United States during the antebellum period. These grand homes were built by wealthy plantation owners and were designed to showcase their wealth and status. Planter's houses are typically large and spacious, with multiple rooms and high ceilings. They often feature elegant details such as columns, porches, and balconies. The exteriors of planter's houses are often made of brick or wood, and the interiors are often decorated with fine furniture and artwork.

History of Planter's Houses

The first planter's houses were built in the early 18th century by wealthy tobacco planters in Virginia and Maryland. These homes were typically modest in size and design, but as the plantation economy grew, so did the size and grandeur of planter's houses. By the mid-19th century, planter's houses were some of the most impressive homes in the South. They were often built on large estates, and they were surrounded by lush gardens and manicured lawns.

Architectural Features of Planter's Houses

Planter's houses are typically large and spacious, with multiple rooms and high ceilings. They often feature elegant details such as columns, porches, and balconies. The exteriors of planter's houses are often made of brick or wood, and the interiors are often decorated with fine furniture and artwork. Some of the most common architectural features of planter's houses include:

Columns: Columns are a common feature of planter's houses. They are often used to support the porch or balcony, and they can also be used to create a grand entrance.
Porches: Porches are another common feature of planter's houses. They provide a shaded area to relax and entertain guests, and they can also be used to connect different parts of the house.
Balconies: Balconies are often found on the second floor of planter's houses. They provide a place to enjoy the view and get some fresh air.
Brick: Brick is a popular material for the exterior of planter's houses. It is durable and fire-resistant, and it can be used to create a variety of different architectural styles.
Wood: Wood is another popular material for the exterior of planter's houses. It is less durable than brick, but it is less expensive and easier to work with.

Interior Design of Planter's Houses

The interiors of planter's houses are often decorated with fine furniture and artwork. The furniture is typically made of mahogany or other fine woods, and it is often upholstered in rich fabrics. The artwork often includes paintings, sculptures, and other objects that reflect the owner's wealth and status. Some of the most common interior design features of planter's houses include:

Grand staircases: Grand staircases are a common feature of planter's houses. They are often made of wood or marble, and they can be quite elaborate.
Chandeliers: Chandeliers are another common feature of planter's houses. They provide light and add a touch of elegance to the room.
Fine furniture: The furniture in planter's houses is typically made of mahogany or other fine woods. It is often upholstered in rich fabrics.
Artwork: The artwork in planter's houses often includes paintings, sculptures, and other objects that reflect the owner's wealth and status.

Legacy of Planter's Houses

Planter's houses are a reminder of the wealth and power of the plantation economy in the antebellum South. They are also a testament to the skill of the architects and builders who created them. Today, many planter's houses have been restored and are open to the public. They are a popular tourist destination, and they offer a glimpse into the history of the South.