Architecture, as the typical representative of many countries and areas, which reflects the
special and unique artistic style, is one of the most attractive element for foreign tourists to
visit the countries. The characteristics and features which are reflected in content, details
and appearance aspects in architectural design are called architecture style. It shows us the
unique creation of plain layout, construction, artistic process, as well as technique
applying. Architecture stands for the culture and art development in some special period of
time, just like one’s hairstyle in certain period, which could explain his or her mood,
feeling, thought and status at that time. In the same situation, one country’s architecture is
able to explain its specific religious faith, civilization atmosphere, society development
level in different period of time. As Kennedy explained in his book—Orders from France:
“Architecture, as distinguished from sculpture, has an inside that can be explored, an
inside that can also be shared over long periods of time. One generation may return to
architecture that was important to its predecessors. Having shared space with them, it may
understand them better, especially if they left messages about how they felt about that
space.” (Kennedy 20)
Under the limitations of different politics, society, economics, materials and technology, as
well as the design ideas, perspectives and artistic accomplishment, it presents the different
style to us. For instance, in ancient Greek, ancient Rome, there were Doric Order, Ionic
Order and Corinthian Order (Leppo “The Corinthian, Doric, and Ionic Orders”); in Middle
Ages, there was Gothic architecture; in late Renaissance, there were Baroque Style and
Rococo Style. Consequently, as the typical representative in Europe, France experienced a
couple of architecture style from 12th century to 20th century; in the meantime, although
the United States established in 18th century, it does possess vivid architecture. Therefore,
the purpose of this research is to compare and contrast the obvious features of architecture
between France and the United States historically in order to let people have an entire
understanding of different architecture styles and correctly distinguish and identify them.
In order to compare and contrast the architecture between France and the United States, we
should have a comprehensive and entire understanding of French and American
architecture history, as well as the special features and styles in different periods of time,
then we can find the similarities and differences between them.
Architecture History and Features
First of all, from 12th to 19th century, France experienced about several main different
