Exploring Some of the Different Home Architectural Styles
American Craftsman – The American Craftsman style home (also known as the American Arts and Crafts movement) derived from the British Arts and Crafts movement during the 1860s as a reaction against the Industrial Revolution to bring back dignity to laborers because the Industrial Revolution was perceived as degrading to the dignity of blue-collar workers. The American Arts and Crafts movement was an ingenuity in America’s domestic lifestyle philosophy. It brought together architectural, interior design, landscape design, applied arts, and decorative arts (using fine locally handcrafted wood, glass, and metalwork) into the home and encouraging functionality, simplicity, and elegance, and away from the Victorian era homes in the later years of the 19th century. Today this style is still quite popular and you can see them everywhere in the United States in the form of cottages, bungalows, cabins, and farmhouses.
Art Deco – The Art Deco style was first inspired in Paris and then popularized in the United States in the 1920s. It was applied to mostly public and commercial buildings as it was very simple and relatively inexpensive to apply. Today it is rare to find homes in the Art Deco style as they were mostly applied to apartment buildings. These days you can find some buildings in the Greater Washington DC and Old Miami Beach, Florida area having the Art Deco style.
Cape Cod House – The Cape Cod House style originated in the northeastern part of the United States known as New England (these included States like Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont). The design of the Cape Cod home was to withstand the stormy and stark weather of the Cape where the style gets its name.
Colonial – Colonial architecture, originating from the colonial period of American history, typically features symmetrical facades, evenly spaced windows, and simple ornamentation. These homes often have a central entrance with a staircase leading to the second floor. Colonial homes exude a sense of tradition and elegance, making them a popular choice for homeowners who appreciate classic design.
Contemporary – Contemporary architecture is characterized by its sleek lines, geometric shapes, and integration of modern materials such as glass, steel, and concrete. These homes often feature open floor plans, large windows, and an emphasis on sustainable design principles. With clean, minimalist aesthetics, contemporary homes offer a sense of sophistication and innovation.
Cottage – Cottage architecture, inspired by the quaint dwellings of rural England and Europe, is characterized by its small size, cozy interiors, and picturesque charm. These homes often feature steeply pitched roofs, dormer windows, and inviting front porches. Cottage architecture reflects a desire for simplicity and intimacy, with a focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for homeowners and guests alike.
Dutch Colonial – Dutch Colonial homes are distinguished by their gambrel roofs, which feature two slopes on each side with the lower slope being steeper than the upper one. These homes often have wide, clapboard exteriors and are known for their cozy, welcoming interiors. Dutch Colonial architecture reflects the influence of Dutch settlers in early American history and continues to be cherished for its charming aesthetic.
Farmhouse – Farmhouse architecture, rooted in the agrarian traditions of rural America, is characterized by its practicality, simplicity, and connection to the land. These homes often feature gabled roofs, wrap-around porches, and board-and-batten siding. Farmhouse architecture reflects a love of country living and a desire for homes that are both functional and beautiful, with an emphasis on comfort and hospitality.
Federal Colonial – Federal Colonial architecture emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries and is characterized by its refined, symmetrical design elements and delicate ornamentation. These homes often feature tall, slender windows, decorative crown moldings, and fanlights above the front door. Federal Colonial architecture reflects the influence of neoclassical design principles and remains a symbol of America’s early architectural heritage.
French Provincial – French Provincial architecture draws inspiration from the rustic charm of the French countryside, with features such as steeply pitched roofs, arched doorways, and decorative half-timbering. These homes often have asymmetrical facades and elaborate detailing, such as wrought iron balconies and carved stone accents. French Provincial architecture exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication, evoking the timeless beauty of rural France.
Georgian Colonial – Georgian Colonial architecture, inspired by the grandeur of classical Greek and Roman design, is characterized by its symmetrical facade, evenly spaced windows, and prominent entryway with a decorative pediment. These homes often feature brick or stone exteriors, elaborate moldings, and formal interiors with high ceilings and grand staircases. Georgian Colonial homes evoke a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication.
Greek Revival – Greek Revival architecture, popular in the United States during the early to mid-19th century, is characterized by its grand, symmetrical design elements and classical motifs. These homes often feature columns, pediments, and other architectural details inspired by ancient Greek temples. Greek Revival architecture reflects the ideals of democracy and civic pride, making it a symbol of America’s architectural heritage.
Italianate – Italianate architecture, inspired by the villas of Italy, is characterized by its ornate detailing, asymmetrical facades, and elaborate cornices. These homes often feature tall, narrow windows, decorative brackets, and belvederes or cupolas. Italianate architecture exudes a sense of opulence and romance, with a focus on luxurious living spaces and lush landscaping.
Log Home – Log cabins originated from Sweden and Finland, and were first built in America by emigrants from these countries in the 1630’s in Delaware. Today log homes can be mostly found in rural settings where the climate is either temperate or cold.
Mediterranean – Mediterranean architecture draws inspiration from the coastal regions of Southern Europe, with features such as stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and arched doorways. These homes often have spacious outdoor living areas, such as courtyards and terraces, that are perfect for entertaining. Mediterranean architecture reflects a relaxed, sun-drenched lifestyle and embraces the beauty of natural materials and textures.
Mid-Century Modern – Mid-Century Modern architecture, popularized in the post-World War II era, emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and integration with nature. These homes often feature open floor plans, large windows, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Mid-Century Modern architecture is known for its clean lines, geometric forms, and innovative use of materials such as glass, steel, and wood.
Modern – Modern architecture, also known as International Style, is characterized by its emphasis on form following function, simplicity, and the use of modern materials such as glass, steel, and concrete. These homes often feature clean, geometric lines, open floor plans, and large windows that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Modern architecture reflects a forward-thinking, progressive approach to design and remains a symbol of innovation and creativity.
Neoclassical – Neoclassical architecture emerged in the 18th century as a revival of classical Greek and Roman design principles. These homes often feature grand, symmetrical facades, columns, and pediments, as well as elaborate detailing inspired by ancient temples and palaces. Neoclassical architecture exudes a sense of grandeur and sophistication, making it a popular choice for monumental buildings and residences alike.
Prairie – Prairie architecture, pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 20th century, is characterized by its horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, and integration with the surrounding landscape. These homes often feature open floor plans, long bands of windows, and natural materials such as wood and stone. Prairie architecture reflects a harmonious relationship between human habitation and the natural world, with an emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and organic design.
Pueblo Revival – Pueblo Revival architecture draws inspiration from the traditional adobe homes of the Pueblo people of the American Southwest. These homes often feature thick, earthen walls, flat roofs, and rounded edges. Pueblo Revival architecture reflects a deep respect for indigenous culture and a desire to create sustainable, environmentally-friendly homes that blend seamlessly with the desert landscape.
Ranch – Ranch architecture, also known as Ranch-style or California Ranch, emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the popularity of suburban living. These homes often feature single-story layouts, open floor plans, and low-pitched roofs with wide eaves. Ranch architecture reflects a casual, relaxed lifestyle, with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living and practical design.
Spanish – Spanish architecture draws inspiration from the diverse architectural traditions of Spain, with features such as stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and wrought iron accents. These homes often have arched doorways, courtyard gardens, and tiled patios that create a sense of warmth and intimacy. Spanish architecture reflects a rich cultural heritage and a love of outdoor living, with an emphasis on natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.
Townhouse – Townhouse architecture, also known as row houses or terraced houses, is characterized by its narrow footprint and shared walls with adjacent units. These homes often feature multiple floors, with living spaces on the ground floor and bedrooms above. Townhouse architecture reflects a sense of urban density and community, with a focus on efficient use of space and close proximity to amenities.
Traditional Chinese – Traditional Chinese architecture is characterized by its emphasis on symmetry, harmony, and balance. These homes often feature enclosed courtyards, tiled roofs with upturned eaves, and intricate woodwork and carvings. Traditional Chinese architecture reflects a deep respect for nature and a desire to create homes that are in harmony with their surroundings, with an emphasis on creating a sense of tranquility and serenity for occupants.
Traditional Japanese – Traditional Japanese architecture is characterized by its minimalist design, natural materials, and close relationship with the surrounding landscape. These homes often feature sliding doors, tatami mat flooring, and exposed wooden beams. Traditional Japanese architecture reflects a deep appreciation for simplicity and craftsmanship, with an emphasis on creating homes that are serene, functional, and timeless in their beauty.
Tudor – Tudor architecture, popular in England during the late medieval and early Renaissance periods, is characterized by its steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and ornate detailing. These homes often feature asymmetrical facades, elaborate chimneys, and leaded glass windows. Tudor architecture exudes a sense of Old World charm and romance, with a nod to the rich history and craftsmanship of the Tudor era.
Victorian – Victorian architecture, popular during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century, is characterized by its ornate detailing, vibrant colors, and eclectic mix of architectural styles. These homes often feature elaborate trim work, decorative moldings, and asymmetrical facades with multiple gables and turrets. Victorian architecture reflects a sense of opulence and grandeur, with a focus on individuality and self-expression.
Each architectural style offers its own unique blend of history, culture, and design principles, allowing homeowners to choose a style that reflects their personal taste and lifestyle preferences for their dream home.