ELIZABETHAN OR HALF TIMBER
Key Distinguishing Characteristics
This is a 2-story or 2 ½- story house, often with part
of the second story overhanging the first. It has less stonework and is less
fort-like than the Tudor. Stone and stucco walls with half timbers are most
common.
Other Distinguishing Characteristics
- Massive sculptured chimneys
- Used brick between half timers is called “nogging”; when not covered with
stucco, it is “exposed nogging”
- Complicated high peaked roofs that are expensive to install and subject to
leaks because of complex valleys
- Small, leaded-glass casement windows
- Interior often has large halls and a spacious living room with a large
fireplace and beamed ceilings
- Bedrooms are on the second floor
History
These houses were erected in England throughout the
prosperous reign of Queen Elizabeth (1558-1603), particularly in the London
area. The characteristic protruding second story supported by wooden brackets is
a carryover from narrow London lots where extra space could be obtained by
overhanging the street.