The triangular "front-gable" design which faces the street. This is called a pediment. It differs from a gable because gables are located on the end of a building whereas the pediment is located over the door and if often supported by pillars.
Roofs are low pitched and rarely have dormers.
The projecting entry porch has tall, round wooden columns or pilasters. A pilaster is a rectangular support that resembles a flat column which projects slightly from the wall. Columns and pilasters are among the most common elements of Greek Revival.
Columns are typically round, however can be square or even octagon in shape.
Columns are designed without bases and can be smooth or fluted.
Elaborate door framing was also a common feature. Typically, small-paned sidelights were framed by heavy, wide trim. Sometimes these sidelights were recessed for a more three-dimensional look.
The transom above the front door is horizontal instead of fanlike which differed from earlier Federal period homes.
Low pitched gable and hip roofs were typical.
The cornice line was embellished with a wide band of trim to emphasize the temple-like roof. (The cornice was the projecting molding that forms the top band of a wall.)
Windows are mostly double hung with six panes per sash.
Greek Revival homes were often painted white to resemble the white marble of impressive and costly public buildings.
