Hollywood Regency, also known as Regency Moderne, is a design style that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its opulent and theatrical aesthetic. This style often incorporates classical architectural elements, including columns, to evoke a sense of grandeur and sophistication.
Introduction to Hollywood Regency Columns
In Hollywood Regency architecture, columns are utilized to add drama and elegance to both interiors and exteriors. These columns often draw inspiration from classical orders but are adapted with sleek lines and luxurious finishes to align with the style’s glamorous ethos.
Key Features of Hollywood Regency Columns
- Classical Influence: Columns in this style often reference classical orders, such as Doric or Corinthian, but are simplified or stylized to suit modern tastes. For instance, architect John Elgin Woolf, a pioneer of Hollywood Regency, frequently incorporated Doric columns into his designs, lending a stately presence to the structures.
- Materials and Finishes: Materials like travertine, marble, and high-gloss painted wood are commonly used to construct these columns, providing a polished and opulent appearance. The finishes often include lacquered surfaces or metallic accents, enhancing the luxurious feel.
- Proportions and Placement: Columns are strategically placed to frame entrances, support porticos, or define interior spaces, creating a sense of order and symmetry. Their proportions are typically slender and elegant, contributing to the overall lightness and sophistication of the design.
Applications of Hollywood Regency Columns
- Entrances and Facades: Columns are prominently featured at the main entrances of Hollywood Regency homes, often supporting a portico or framing oversized doors, creating a grand and inviting approach. For example, Woolf’s designs often included oversized ‘Pullman’ doors flanked by columns, enhancing the theatricality of the entrance.
- Interior Spaces: Within interiors, columns are used to delineate spaces without the need for solid walls, maintaining an open and airy feel. They often serve as decorative elements that contribute to the overall glamour of the space.
Notable Examples
- Case Study House No. 17: Originally designed by Craig Ellwood, this house was remodeled by John Elgin Woolf in 1962, who transformed its modernist features into a Hollywood Regency masterpiece. Woolf wrapped the existing post and beam elements in Doric columns, exemplifying the style’s adaptation of classical elements.
Conclusion
Hollywood Regency columns encapsulate the fusion of classical motifs with mid-20th-century glamour, contributing to spaces that are both elegant and dramatic. Their thoughtful incorporation into architectural designs continues to evoke the luxurious and theatrical spirit of Hollywood’s golden era.