The Structure

The octagonal shape presented multiple challenges in design and construction. Legend has that Abijah designed the plans for the home himself. Unlike standard homes, ingenuity ruled in planning spaces that were functional and pleasing to the eye. Large public rooms dominated both floors while more intimate and private rooms utilized the leftover areas, all of varying triangular shapes and sizes.

Specialty molds were used to form bricks that solved the issue of “turning corners” on each exterior angle of the octagon shape. These bricks were not only aesthetically pleasing but also addressed the problem of weather infiltration in the four-wythe brick exterior walls. Wood framing within was a mixture of ancient mortise and tenon construction and the ingenious use of iron strapping which strengthened joints. 

A spiderweb of structural beams support the massive roof structure within the attic. The design, broken only by four massive chimneys, did not rely on exterior support allowing for a pleasing, symmetrical view from all angles. Heating and ventilating such a large structure was also challenging. The design included iron fireplace inserts and numerous wood burning stoves at a time when most homes functioned only with traditional fireplace heat. Large windows allowed the free movement of breezes throughout the rooms unrestricted by traditional wall placement. The structure, pleasing to the eye, is a wonder of architectural creativity and resourcefulness.