African Americans have faced many struggles and have achieved many successes throughout history. Yet, one historic accomplishment is often overlooked in conversations, and that is the African American tradition of house architecture. The African American houses of this time were diverse - from Southern Shotgun houses to Creole Cottages to West African Compounds. The African American Traditional House Designs often look quite different than the standard colonial home and incorporate some of the unique qualities of African American construction. The most common of these designs include the Southern Shotgun house, the Gullah Cottage, the Louisiana Cottage and the Creole Cottage. The Southern Shotgun house is characterized by its long, narrow shape and simple construction. Square or rectangular in shape, these houses commonly have wooden floors and tin roofs, as well as multiple windows on the side of the house that can be opened and closed. This allows for a lot of natural lighting and ventilation, as well as providing some extra warmth during cold winter months. African American Traditional House Designs
The Southern Shotgun house is one of the most common African American traditional house designs. It is characterized by its long, narrow shape and its minimalistic construction. The most common features of these houses are wooden floors and tin roofs, or a combination of the two. Square or rectangular in shape, the Southern Shotgun house typically incorporates multiple windows along the side of the house that can be opened and closed to allow for natural lighting and ventilation. This style of house was especially popular in working class African American communities, and many families still inhabit this type of house today. What sets the Southern Shotgun house apart from other African American traditional house designs is the use of decorative elements such as painted shutters and porches. This provides the house with an individual character as well as aiding in the overall aesthetic of the building.Southern Shotgun House
The Gullah Cottage is one of the oldest African American traditional house designs. It originated in the coastal southeastern states of the USA and was built from the 1830s to the early 1900s. It’s a one-story rectangular house with a symmetrical floor plan, and typically features wood shingles or wooden board siding on the outside. The roof is commonly gabled, with the sides extending above the eaves line. This style of house was usually built without the need of nails, as the boards were simply fitted together using wooden pegs. The interior of the Gullah Cottage is quite simple, but does often feature interesting and unique elements. Such elements may include wood paneling and ceiling beams, open porches and fireplaces. These details provide the house with a classic look that is both unique and timeless. They also serve to insulate the home from the outdoor temperature, providing occupants with a comfortable living environment.Gullah Cottage
The Louisiana Cottage is a type of traditional African American house found primarily in the greater Gulf Coast area. This style of house is typically one and a half stories and features a gabled roof with eaves lined with wooden shingles or board siding. The walls are often built with wooden shake siding with exposed wood beams. This style of house also often features an open or screened-in porch for outdoor living and entertaining. The Louisiana Cottage usually takes advantage of the natural Southern climate with open windows, wide porches, and large outdoor living spaces. The interior features are just as unique and charming. Hardwood floors are often used in the high traffic areas, and the interior walls are usually decorated with colorful or antique finishes. This style of house is perfect for those looking to embrace the traditional Southern charm in their home.Louisiana Cottage
Creole Cottages are a type of traditional African American house found in the lower Mississippi River Valley. This style of house is defined by its raised porch, steep pyramidal roof, and its simplicity. The walls are typically made with a combination of wood and brick, while the roof is usually made with metal or wood shingles. The interior of the Creole Cottage is quite basic, with hardwood floors and minimalistic furniture. The Creole Cottage was often built by freed African American slaves in the 1800s and is still a popular style of house today. It is one of the most economical and easy-to-build types of homes, making it a great option for those looking for a low-cost home. Its simple yet stylish design also makes it a great choice for those looking to add a touch of history to their home.Creole Cottage
The Dog Trot house is an African American traditional house design with unique features. It typically consists of two cabins connected by a breeze way that serves as a passageway between the inside of the house and the outdoor porch. This two-story cabin is usually made out of wood and other natural materials such as brick, stone or log cabins. The exterior of the Dog Trot house is typically painted white with black trim, and the inside of the house includes hardwood floors and basic furnishings. The Dog Trot house is an iconic African American traditional house design. It is commonly associated with humble living and is a symbol of self-sufficiency. The design is also easy and affordable to build, making it a great option for those looking to build a home on a budget.Dog Trot House
The Savannah Row House is a type of traditional African American house found in the historically African American neighborhoods of Savannah, Georgia. It is often referred to as a “shotgun” house due to its long and narrow shape. Usually no more than 18 feet wide, this house often features two stories and a long porch wrapping around the entire house. The walls are usually built with brick or stucco and the roof usually consists of wood or metal shingles. The Savannah Row House is a great option for those looking to live in a traditional African American house while still taking advantage of the modern amenities. Its open porch and long narrow shape make it a perfect home for entertaining or just relaxing. It is a timeless design that is perfect for those looking to embrace the history of the neighborhood they live in.Savannah Row House
The Sugar Shack is a traditional African American house design which consists of a single-story, rectangular house with a gable roof. It is often characterized by its simplicity and its low-cost construction methods. Commonly made out of wood and tin, the Sugar Shack usually features a small porch with steps leading up to the front door. The interior is usually made up of simple furnishings, such as beds and chairs. The Sugar Shack house is an icon of African American culture. It is often associated with rural living and humble beginnings, and is a reminder of the history of African American heritage. Today, this style of house is still popular in many rural areas, and is ideal for those looking for a low-cost yet comfortable home.Sugar Shack
The Traditional Plantation House is a type of African American house that is usually located on large estates or plantations. This style of house is typically made of brick and wood, and is often large and imposing. It typically features two or three stories, and a large wraparound porch that extends around the entire house. The interior of the house usually includes high ceilings, grand staircases, and decorated fireplaces. The Traditional Plantation House is a unique style of house that is known for its grandeur and its grand scale. It is a reminder of African American heritage, and a symbol of the strength and beauty of African American culture. This type of house also serves to provide luxury and comfort to those living in it, making it a great option for those looking to make a statement in their home.Traditional Plantation House
The Southern Country Home is a type of traditional African American house that is typically found in the Southeastern United States. This style of house is usually large with two or more stories, and is made of brick or wood. The exterior of the house usually includes an expansive wrap-around porch that extends from the front of the house to the side walls, and the interior is usually decorated with country-style furnishings and decor. The Southern Country Home has become a symbol of African American heritage and strength. It is the perfect meld of luxury and traditional elements, and is a great option for those who are looking for an elegant and sophisticated home. This style of house is also ideal for those looking to take advantage of the warm Southern climate.Southern Country Home
The West African Compound is one of the oldest African American traditional house designs, and is one of the most iconic of African architectural styles. This style of house is usually found in larger communities and consists of several buildings, including houses, barns, storage spaces, and even granaries. The buildings are usually grouped into a single complex and surrounded by walls to provide extra protection. The West African Compound is often associated with strong African American traditions and culture, and is a reminder of the unique and vibrant African American lifestyle. It is also a symbol of strength, as the walls provide protection from the harsh elements, yet still remain inviting to family and friends. Today, this style of house is still popular and is the perfect choice for those looking to embrace their African American heritage.West African Compound
The Unique Beauty of African-American Traditional House Plans
