Until the turn of the century, the land upon which Schenley Farms is situated remained open until and undeveloped. Nicola, in turn, created a model suburban upper middle class development. By 1910 one half of the lots had been sold and by 1923 development was nearly complete. Schenley Farms serves as a model of early twentieth century interest in land use policies, planning techniques, and urban design. Much of this interest emanated from the City Beautiful movement, which was ushered in by the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago.
Windows contain in many instances leaded or stained glass.
Most of the garages are compatible with the design of the houses to which they belong. Schenley Farms is a showcase of the Eclectic styles, which were popular, in varying degrees, from about 1875 to 1940. The Eclectic Movement drew inspiration from traditional English, French, Mediterranean, and Colonial American architecture. Other secondary details, including wide enclosed eaves and geometric decoration applied to exterior walls, windows, and doors, stem from the Prairie Style houses of Frank Lloyd Wright. The landscape of Schenley Farms received a great deal of attention as well.