Top 62+ Gorgeous African American Traditional House Plan You Won't Be Disappointed

(40 reviews)

Are you looking for the perfect African American traditional house plan for your dream home? Perhaps you're seeking inspiration for a spacious family residence for your growing needs? What about a cozy home with efficient features? Look no further than our list of the top African American traditional house plans to help you make the right choice for your home!

African American Traditional House Designs

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

Southern Shotgun House

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

Gullah Cottage

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

Louisiana 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 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

Dog Trot House

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

Savannah Row 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

Sugar Shack

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

Traditional Plantation House

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

Southern Country Home

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

West African Compound

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

african american traditional house plan African-American traditional house plans are distinguished by their unique style, appearing distinct from the oft-homogenous standard designs due to the incorporation of cultural influences and generational legacies. Many of these plans are derived from the original styles of African and American ancestral homes, with a special focus on embodying a contemporary urban flair. These house plans are characterized by their vibrant aesthetics, such as use of color and patterns, traditional building techniques, and intricate details that help create a sense of culture and heritage. By balancing cultural influences with modern design trends, these floor plans are perfect for anyone seeking to imbue their home with a unique style that reflects their personal identity. Achieving this type of style requires knowledge of African-American design principles , such as framed porches and courtyards, large prisons and chimneys, and detailed woodwork. While problematic in some areas, crafting these designs can make all the difference in the overall look and feel of any house. An experienced designer can maximize the beauty of an African-American traditional house plan while minimizing the risks associated with structural and aesthetic discrepancies. These plans also take advantage of special features that are integral to this type of design, including traditional materials like wood and stone, vibrant color swatches, and specialty fixtures. From the foundation up to where it meets the roof, African-American house plans pay special attention to materials, enabling the homeowner to enjoy the aesthetics of their home and its elements for many years. Moreover, these designs also have a number of other defining characteristics, such as the incorporation of traditional motifs and symbols, the use of artistic embellishments, and setting particular attention to walls, foundations, and roofs. African-American traditional house plans also draw upon traditional architecture from many different countries, providing an even broader range of customization choices. Designers using traditional architectural elements, especially when creating a home that will last for many decades, understand the importance of combining traditional methods with cutting-edge technology and modern building techniques. Through careful research and an appreciation for both classic and contemporary elements of design, they can provide the homeowner with an African-American traditional house plan that offers the perfect blend of aesthetics, comfort, and safety.

11