I would be interested in talking to other American Four Square owners about features and stuff. We just moved to Oak Park, IL in July and have been working on restoring the 4 sq we bought. We owned a great bungalow in Spokane before moving here and got the fever there, but couldn't find a bungalow here that met our needs (or price range). We felt like the 4 sq was the closest we could come at this time and it sounded a few times like there were other 4 sq owners on the board. <br> <br>We are very interested in the Art &amp; Crafts style and, since much of our furniture is that style, want to incorporate A&amp;C features, colors, etc into our new (1915) home. But I also want to be true to the 4 sq style (if there is such a thing). <br> <br>We have hardwood floors on both levels, art glass in some of the windows (though not spectacular or anything). The woodwork in most of the house is painted, but on the inside of a couple closet doors the potential beauty can be seen. <br> <br>I'd love to talk with others about what you have done, share what we have done and find out more about what we should or shouldn't do. We would hate for this to turn into a "remuddle" or some ghastly, mutant bungalow wannabe! <br> <br>So, all you Four Squares out there, speak up! <br> <br>

Hi Rebecca: I was thrilled to see your question posted because after a year and a half search, my husband and I just bought a 1923 four square in York County, PA. We haven't even moved in yet but are discussing some of the same questions you have and I look forward to some of the feedback you get. I grew up in a four square house in Indiana, PA and really love the style. <br> <br>I would like to do some research on the origins of the four square house. I know it is attributed to the prairie school originally and later incorporated into the Arts and Crafts style. I would really like to know who designed some of the first four squares and where they originated. If anyone can point me in the right direction, I would appreciate it. <br> <br>

You may have already seen the description by <br>Dr. Robert Winter on this site. If not, here it is: <br> <br>FOURSQUARE (1900-1930s) <br>A close relative of the Prairie School, the <br>Foursquare (or Box House) is probably one of <br>the most popular styles of houses in America. <br>Its practicality cannot be overstated. Despite <br>their basic, simple cube design, Foursquares <br>were not bogged down in a sameness of <br>exterior design or decor. They offer a large <br>variety of appearances, and their form can be <br>seen from coast to coast, from plain to fancy. <br>Indeed, they are the quintessential home of <br>the period. <br> <br>Features include: <br> <br>* cubish shape <br>* two full stories <br>* hipped roof and front roof dormer <br>* front porch (ranging from wraparounds to <br>simple stoops) <br>* windows usually grouped in pairs <br>* usually four bedrooms <br> <br> <br> <br>

No, I hadn't see the description and thanks for the tip. <br> <br>

Hi Rebecca! and welcome to the neighborhood! We live in Joliet and just moved into our 1919 Foursquare on Oct. 31. I would love to exchange ideas/experiences with you. This is the second foursquare I have owned. By the way, my husband's aunt and uncle own a Foursquare in Oak Park. <br>