Moroccan architecture for building standards which directly affected the architecture at that time, as follows: The building regulations maintained the country's preexisting architectural features and balanced the rapid urbanization. The Riad also known as Dar is the Moroccan traditional house, which normally has two or more storeys around a courtyard. Villas are larger stand-alone housing in the urbanized area which do not need to follow traditional architectural style. Arches, most often the horseshoe arch are used in almost every aspect of Moroccan housing whether it is doors, entrances, windows or niches. Domes are often integrated with altars or commemorative monuments as well
James A. Burden House an Italian Renaissance-style townhouse, embellished by French-inspired detailing around the windows and balcony. In 1907, the New York Times wrote: "so perfectly is the French idea carried out at the Burden residence ... the only way one can enter is through a courtyard ... [the central stairway has] a tread so low and wide that one ascends ... without being conscious of any effort." In 1938, the contents of the house were auctioned by Parke-Bernet. The Convent of the Sacred Heart purchased the mansion in 1940. It now serves as the location of the Convent of the Sacred Heart's lower