Choosing a Style House
A style house is a home built to reflect its location and community. It may be a single-family home, or it can be a multi-story building with multiple units. It can be a traditional or modern design, and it can be made from many different materials, including brick, stone, timber and wood.
Whether you are considering buying a new home or renovating an existing one, the style of the home can make a big difference in its appeal and value. Luckily, there are plenty of styles to choose from across the United States, so you should be able to find something that will fit your needs and preferences.
Colonial Homes
The earliest colonists brought a variety of architectural styles from Europe to North America. Today, many of these designs are still in use in both residential and commercial construction. Some are based on classical profiles while others are unique to the New World, with their own story to tell.
French Colonial
The French Colonial is a home style that originated in Louisiana and was inspired by the architecture of France. This style has a number of defining features, including hipped roofs and large porches. It is also known for a number of other elements, like French doors and exterior walkways.
Cape Cod houses have been a popular choice for home builders since the 18th century, but there are several variations of this style. The symmetrical full Cape is the most common, but the asymmetrical half Cape and three-quarter Cape are also often found in these regions.
Ranch homes are popular for a variety of reasons, most of which have to do with the comfort and convenience they provide for modern living. They offer a wide floor plan, with an emphasis on outdoor spaces and a focus on the use of natural light.
Craftsman Homes
The craftsman house style was developed during the 1900s and became popular in Southern California. It is characterized by a combination of wood and brick construction, with a simple interior layout. It is a great choice for small to medium-sized homes.
Cottage Stylehouses
During the 1920s and 30s, American architects reimagined cottage styles as they were influenced by medieval England and designed a cozy house that evokes a sense of nostalgia. These homes have a steep thatched roof, arched doorways and shuttered windows.
Tudor Revival
The Tudor revival house style grew from the Tudors of England during the 15th century, and it has several defining characteristics. These include a rectangular shape, two to three stories, a striped brick, stone or stucco exterior with decorative half-timbered siding, and a steeply pitched roof.
Historic Rowhouses
Rowhouses, also called townhouses, first appeared in the Netherlands and Belgium during the 16th century, and they spread to cities throughout the United States during the Industrial Revolution. They typically consist of a pair of connected houses next to each other with an adjoining wall.
These styles of houses are often built in urban areas where the lot size is relatively narrow and there is a limited amount of space. They are often more expensive than other home styles and require a larger investment in landscaping and outdoor maintenance. However, they can be more affordable than other home styles and can be a good option for families with young children or those who want to live in a smaller space.