[2] As a whole, the house adheres to Renaissance revival, but inspiration is drawn from sources across multiple time periods and geographic locations.

Italian classicism, especially that of the late Renaissance period during the 16th century, is marked by complex and sophisticated design which is not necessarily unified.

[3] The symmetrical western facade and the garden cascade of the Swan House are distinctly of the Italian Renaissance.

The east front and the portico are Anglo-Palladian, an Italian classical style which was popular in English country houses during the 17th century.

Shutze is widely regarded as "Atlanta's best known architect," and he designed notable civic landmarks as well as private residential homes.

[2] Shutze studied architecture at the Georgia School of Technology, Columbia University, and the American Academy in Rome, Italy, which provided first-hand experience of the Italian Renaissance style he would employ throughout his career.

[6] There are broken pediments and Roman Doric columns on the portico, which were inspired by Duncombe Park in Yorkshire, England.

[7] Sculptures by the entrance representing the seasons of summer and autumn contribute to "the Italian villa feeling.

Swan House was designed specifically as a residence for Edward and Emily Inman, who were the affluent heirs to a cotton fortune.

[9] In addition to the house itself, the Inmans also owned the surrounding 28-acre estate, including other facilities such as a garage, servants' quarters, and a barn.

The mansion was chosen for its classical style and antique details, as the directors wanted a location which "looked like it had been there forever.