58 Cambridge

The architecture of Switzerland was influenced by its location astride major trade routes, along with diverse architectural traditions of the four national languages. Romans and later Italians brought their monumental and vernacular architecture north over the Alps, meeting the Germanic and German styles coming south and French influences coming east. Additionally, Swiss mercenary service brought architectural elements from other lands back to Switzerland. All the major styles including ancient Roman, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, Modern architecture and Post Modern are well represented throughout the country. The founding of the Congrès International d'Architecture Moderne in La Sarraz and the work of Swiss-born modern architects such as Le Corbusier helped spread Modern architecture throughout the world.

The relative isolation of villages in the Alpine foothills, the Alps and the Jura mountains as well as different languages led to great diversity in the vernacular style. Due to differing traditions, climate and building materials, villages in each region are distinctly different. The Swiss chalet style, which was popular in the 19th century represents only one of a number of traditional designs. Today, due to historic preservation laws and tourism, large and small communities have retained many of their historic core buildings. Since 1972 the Swiss Heritage Society has awarded the Wakker Prize to encourage communities to preserve their architectural heritage.

Are you surprised to find a little bit of Switzerland in Dayton View? This craftsman-style home was built in 1920. Notice the Swiss balustrades. They are relatively uncommon. However, these balustrades did appear on the front-gabled roofs of Craftsman-style houses. The Craftsman style dominated the smaller-house building industry across the United States during the first three decades of the twentieth century. This international movement favored simple design, natural materials, and fine craftsmanship as a reaction to the increasing mass production of the industrial age.

Several features of the Craftsman movement comprise the design of this home. Notice the uncut limestone to form the porch wall and chimney. Vague references to old world architecture in the Chalet-style balcony and the false half-timbering in the porch roof are also features of the Craftsman style.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture_of_Switzerland