99% Invisible The Octagon House
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Jul 5, 2022 Avery Trufelman, a former producer known for her insightful storytelling, explores the fascinating world of octagonal homes. She reveals how this architectural trend from the mid-1800s was tied to self-improvement and championed by phrenologist Orson Fowler. The narrative highlights the unique features of octagon houses, modern innovations that enhance their resilience, and personal stories from those living in these quirky structures. Sprinkled with tales of ghostly encounters, it's a charming look at how architecture shapes our lives and aspirations.
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Octagon House Visit
- Avery Trufelman took Roman Mars to an octagon house in San Francisco.
- This sparked an investigation into the octagon house fad.
Octagon House Fad
- Octagon houses were a trend in the 1850s, based on the belief they offered a healthier, happier life.
- Avery wanted to explore this utopian ideal.
Museum Mismatch
- The McElroy Octagon House is now run by the Colonial Dames of America.
- It's filled with colonial and federalist artifacts, not related to the octagon house era.