You might ask yourself if Memphis shares any similarities with truly urban centers such as Chicago. The answer would be: an exceptional number of historic buildings. In fact, the city ranks near the top when it comes to national register listings, with over 11,500 properties, most of which are located in the Midtown and Downtown areas. While historic examples can be seen everywhere, Memphis doesn't feature just one style. As the city has experienced ups and downs financially and the effects of both World Wars and the Great Depression, the design of both commercial and residential buildings has been altered. An attempt to apply modern principles can also be seen throughout the wider urban area.

The predictable growth of Memphis, central hub for Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee was hampered in the 1870s by a series of epidemics that cut the population almost in half, reducing it to 32,000. Everything slowed down, including building projects as the city worked hard just to survive. Homes prior to the epidemics can still be viewed, especially in the midtown area. Clano Hall (1853), the Hunt-Phalen House (1830), and Annesdale (1855) are a few examples of everything from antebellum Federal brick architecture to Italian Villa style. .

By the 1890s, functionality had become more important in architectural design. Superflous architectural flourishes died off as an emphasis on regularity and volume came into vogue. The influence of modernism spread from residential to commercial and even industrial properties. Many of the older buildings on Union Ave., Main St., Second St., and Madison were torn down, replaced by more modern steel frame buildings designed by Chicago architects. Memphians also would alter the facade of older building to be more in keeping with modern styles. Skyscrapers started appearing by 1914, and streetcars encouraged the development of subdivisions such as Central Gardens, Estival Park, and Annesdale Park.

Blue collar communities established themselves in that area. Higher end properties can also been seen with expensive materials and spacious yards. Crafts man style and Greek Revival designs were prevalent in the lower level dwellings. Occasionally, an imitation of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School style was also interspersed, boasting bands of wooden casement windows, horizontal lines, and deep overhanging roofs.Practical housing projects were also pursued, but the city didn't start zoning until 1924.

Interestingly, Memphis realty and design was the first in the nation to really focus on more rob homes for more reasonable prices. In 1936, the Small Home Builder's Association published a catalogue with over 100 design plans costing $2500 - $6000. Local architects offered low rates to aid in the rebuilding. Such was the community concern for helping residents secure their own homes after the Great Depression.

In some ways, WW II dampened enthusiasm for modern European architectural styles. Too much negative association slowed interest in International design. A small historical oddity was the late 1950 attempt by Mies van der Rohe to restablish modern design with steel framed houses and glass curtains. Remains of this can be seen in Memphis even today.

Today, Memphis has had a prolonged buyer's market, and hopeful home owners can choose from fine homes in the downtown and riverfront areas. The city is slowly revitalizing itself, growing from the west. Older commercial buildings are being renovated while the Midtown area has salvaged its southern charm. In the far east, faux-estates with acreage abound. Memphis offers homes in every price range, but is generally know for it's reasonable prices with luxury homes with river views available for around a million in many cases. If you've got a family to wean Memphis offers professional basketball, museums galore, a packed annual festival calender, a variety of cultured activities, and a laid back southern drawl.

There's the history of Memphis architecture for you.