Georgian Residential Style of 18th-Century Colonial America

Hampton Luzak has a background in fashion and television production and has served as casting director on a variety of film sets, including the award-winning short Chaperone. Hampton Luzak has also focused her creative energy on the historic preservation and renovation efforts of numerous residences in Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut.

One historic residential architectural style prominent in New England is Georgian architecture. A period of American architecture that emerged in the early 1700s, the Georgian era featured homes that were similar to the previous generation of Colonial houses in chimney configuration, as well as cladding. However, Georgian homes were much larger than their Colonial predecessors.

Another distinct aspect of Georgian homes is their predictable design, with windows and doors set in orderly arrangements along the two-story front side of homes that extended two rooms deep. For example, second floor windows were typically arranged in odd numbers that extended across as three, five, or seven windows, depending on the dimensions of the home. The functionality of the design imparts a sense of solidity and orderliness that makes Georgian residences important to preservationists to this day.

Three Traits of Good Casting Directors

Hampton Luzak is a former entertainment industry professional with both in front of and behind the camera. In addition to roles as a producer and reporter, Hampton Luzak previously worked with Denise Fitzgerald Casting as a casting director in New York City. 

Many casting directors hold a two- or four-year degree in a field related to entertainment. However, industry insiders suggest that strong connections are at least as important as an educational background. Casting is about knowing the right actors and having a good relationship with talent agents and directors. According to industry leaders, good casting directors also have the following traits:

-Strong communication and negotiation skills. Casting professionals need to work with studios, directors, talent, and a wealth of other people in the industry. This often involves navigating conversations about money and contracts, where negotiating skills are especially useful. 

-Organizational skills and a sharp memory. A good casting director usually has multiple projects going on at the same time. He or she needs to be able to juggle these projects while remembering names, script details, and other important bits of industry information. 

-The ability to handle stress. Casting is hard work with long hours. Casting professionals do not always land their first choice for a role on the first attempt. The best casting professionals can roll with the punches and remain calm.