Hammond–Harwood House, Colonial mansion in Annapolis, United States.
The Hammond-Harwood House is a brick colonial house in Annapolis, Maryland, made up of a central block, two side wings, and connecting passages that form a symmetrical composition. The entrance is framed by Ionic columns, and the window detailing adds to the precision of the overall design.
The house was built in 1774 for Matthias Hammond, a wealthy Maryland planter, and designed following classical models that had reached the American colonies through European architectural books. It later passed to the Harwood family, which is why the building carries its double name today.
The interior rooms are arranged according to the social customs of the 18th century, with furniture and objects chosen to reflect the tastes of a wealthy Maryland family. Visitors can see how the placement of each piece followed rules about rank, hospitality, and display.
The house welcomes visitors on guided tours through the historic rooms and garden, so a self-guided walk is not the usual format here. Opening hours can vary by season, so it is worth checking in advance before making the trip.
William Buckland completed this design just before his death in 1774, making it his last known work as an architect. He drew directly from the plates in Andrea Palladio's architectural book, a copy of which he is believed to have owned personally.
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