Colonial-style houses are traditional designs that have been popular in the United States for centuries. These house designs have evolved over the years to include different styles such as Georgian, Dutch, Spanish, French, New England, Southern, Tidewater, Mission, Victorian and Cape Cod. Each style has its own distinct characteristics that give the home a unique look and feel. The hallmark of a colonial house is typically its symmetrical front, columns and/or heavy shutters and a columned porch. Colonial House Designs
The Georgian Colonial house design is one of the most iconic house designs of the colonial period. Typically featuring a symmetrical, two-story facade, these houses feature large double-hung windows, elegant moldings, and simple but ornamental decorations like balustrades or balustrade railings. These houses were designed to be grand and majestic, and were often adorned with pediments and other decorative details. Georgian Colonial House Design
The Dutch Colonial house design is similar to the Georgian Colonial, but features curved, low-pitched roofs instead of pediments and other decorations. These houses have a steeper roof which is often made with curved sections of wood. These houses typically also feature distinctive, wrap around porches with exaggerated eaves. Dutch Colonial House Design
The Spanish Colonial house design is characterized by its use of whitewashed walls, terracotta or tiled roofs, and exposed wooden beams or railings. These houses typically feature a terrace system with either shallow or steep steps and a central courtyard typically outfitted with an outdoor fireplace or fountain. Many Spanish Colonial houses also have distinctive balconies or wrap-around verandas. Spanish Colonial House Design
The French Colonial house design is similar to the Spanish Colonial, but is much more symmetrical. These houses typically feature an asymmetrical facade with two wings, shuttered windows, and a large, single dormer window or two with louvered shutters. The exterior of French Colonial houses feature stucco walls and a clay tile roof. Many houses of this style also feature a wrap-around porch and are adorned with decorative columns. French Colonial House Design
The New England Colonial house design is another popular colonial house design. These houses typically feature tapered brick chimneys, clapboard siding, and a steeply pitched roof with end gables, hipped roofs, and dormers. These houses are typically adorned with shutters and decorative moldings. New England Colonial House Design
The Southern Colonial house design is characterized by its use of Greek and Georgian architectural elements. These houses typically feature large single-story porches with columns and balustrades. They also feature stone steps or a brick piazza with a large central hall. These houses are typically adorned with horizontal siding, synthetic rock, plaster and/or stucco. Southern Colonial House Design
The Tidewater Colonial house design is unique in that it is the only colonial style to feature a covered porch wrapping around the side of the house. These houses typically feature a brick foundation and wood shingles on the exterior. This classic house design features a large central hall with multiple rooms radiating off of it. Tidewater Colonial House Design
The Mission Colonial house design is a combination of the Southern and Spanish colonial house designs. These houses typically feature curved entryways, arched windows and doors and adobe exteriors. Mission Colonial houses also typically feature a wrap-around porch or a large central patio. Mission Colonial House Design
The Victorian Colonial house design features ornate detailing and is one of the most ornate house designs of the colonial era. These houses typically have an irregular floor plan, two stories, and a large porch extending across the facade. The exterior of these houses often feature gingerbread trim, pediments, and towers. Victorian Colonial House Design
The Cape Cod Colonial house design is a traditional house design of New Englanders. These houses feature a symmetrical design with central chimneys and steeply pitched roof. The exterior of these houses typically feature clapboard siding, pitched shutters and distinctive window panes. Cape Cod Colonial House Design
Bring Colonial Charm to Your Home Design
Colonial style house design combines classical elements with an effortless, warm style. It has been an influential part of American history and style, providing a distinct sense of charm to any home. From the traditional roof and trim details of a colonial home to the iconic architectural elements, the following is a closer look into this timeless look.
The Architecture
The architecture of colonial style house design is consistent with its well-known, timeless look. The distinct elements include a symmetrical facade, detailed trim around the doors and windows, steep gabled roofline, and a central entryway. nods to greenery and landscaping will also improve the presence of the façade.
Interior Elements
The interior of a colonial home also features symmetrical elements. Traditional interiors will include detailed trim, moldings, wainscoting, and hardwood flooring. Fireplaces within the home will provide an additional element of charm, and those details will vary based on the moment in history when the home was built. Many colonial homes will have tall windows, providing plenty of natural light into the interior space.
Decor and Furniture
To complete a colonial style house design, decorative elements must be added. These pieces tie the look together, creating a distinct warm and classic appeal that the classic style is known for. Furniture pieces should feature plenty of curves and darker colors. Light and airy patterns or furniture colors should not be used as this does not conform to the classic style. Finishes with a metallic sheen can also be used to elevate the look, as can accented fabrics like velvet, wool, and brocade.
Conclusion
Colonial style house design works in any setting, both in classic or modern homes. Adding traditional elements such as detailed trimming and symmetrical façade can help to bring the look together. Interior elements such as furniture colors and fabrics will also help to contribute to a classic colonial style.