If you have an appreciation for architecture, then you most certainly have an eye for residential home designs. From Connecticut to New York, the design of homes can vary in each area but there are certain styles that have a rich history, which are still widely used to this day.
Take a stroll in any suburban area and you will notice the variety of home styles that are present and how these styles have unique components which appeal to different design tastes. From exterior materials that are used like stucco and brick, to the door and window designs that incorporate different shapes and sizes, the design possibilities for a home exterior are endless.
When it comes to styles of homes, everyone has different preferences which may work best with their lifestyle. For some, they may want to choose a traditional and timeless home design that can last through the decades without looking outdated. For others, they may want a design that is more current and modern, to potentially stand out and have a unique home that may not be as common.
At Stewart-Schafer, we are experts in interior design & architecture that provide our design services in New York & Connecticut. As experts in the design industry, we have a comprehensive understanding of residential home styles. Having designed many different homes, we have a strong, foundational knowledge of different architectural styles and how they work to create the perfect dream homes.
In this blog, we will go over some of the most popular design home styles in the Connecticut area. Whether you are a current or future home-buyer, or an individual who simply has an interest in different house styles, this blog will provide you an insightful overview of the different types of housing that are commonly used in Connecticut.
While a beautiful residential interior design is a must to make any living space, it is important to remember that maintaining a well-designed interior and exterior is key to making a home the best that it can be. Although many pay close attention to interior design in order to create ideal living spaces, do not underestimate the importance of residential architecture.
With this in mind, here are ten types of residential design that are quite popular and common in Connecticut.
Standing at either two to three stories, the colonial home style was born from New England and it is a popular design choice in the United States. Originating from the 1600s when colonial architecture first emerged, this type of housing is distinguishable for its uniform and symmetrical design, with pronounced front entrances and typical brick facades. The colonial style is quite simple, but it has a timeless design with its usage of dormers and columns which create a formal and sophisticated exterior.
The cottage style design has its origins from the Middle Ages, where the word “cottage” gets its background from the cotters which were peasant farmers who lived in these types of homes. Cottage style homes are typically built with stone or wood, and the amount of storeys can vary, but it is most common to see them with at least two-storeys. In terms of design and construction, this design style has a rustic vibe to it which adds to its charm. This home style can be found in both urban and rural areas, though it does have a distinct look which makes it quite fitting in rural settings.
When you look at objects like a dollhouse or a gingerbread house, it may most likely take inspiration from the Victorian home style, which emerged in the mid 1800s. The style became more popular in the 1900s when construction companies were able to create the materials that were necessary for these elaborate designs. Typically, this style is made in a way that is non-symmetrical, and they feature elaborate shingle shapes and steep gabled roofs. Although this has a more complex design style, it is a popular design that spawned other style variations like the Gothic and Italianate styles.
Most often found in rural areas, the farmhouse style was originally built to fit the lifestyle of farmers, which is why a lot of farmhouses may not always be visually appealing as these original homes were designed with function in mind, rather than style. The farmhouse design style was originally modelled after other designs such as the Victorian and Colonial styles, however, you may notice that the farmhouse style is a bare version of these two styles. Despite its simple appearance, the farmhouse style can have an exterior that looks lived-in and inviting.
The Greek Revival style is well defined by its usage of tall columns and pediments, and just as the name suggests, this style pays homage to the architecture in Greece. Popularized in the late 1800s, this features a symmetrical design that often has bold moldings and shapely embellishments. Usually, this style is more commonly used on large estates, since it has an imposing look that is reminiscent of regality.
Taking inspiration from rural Western ranches, this type of housing gained popularity in the mid 1900s. The original designs were meant to be economical for families who were moving into suburban neighbourhoods. Similar to cottage-style houses, the ranch style has minimal design, and it is often most recognized for its single storey design and “L” shaped structure. Although many may not look dazzling, it opens up a lot of opportunities for customization to appeal to those who may want to vamp up its residential architecture.
A combination of old English cottage-style and Gothic Revival is what best defines the tudor style. This home style emerged in the early 1900s and became quite popular in the 1980s. You may notice a lot of these homes, as this is arguably one of the home styles that are easily recognizable with its steep-pitched roofs and elaborate brick placements on the exterior. It is common for many of these homes to have stone or brick chimneys.
In the early 1900s, government buildings and universities used this Neoclassical design style which is best characterized by its symmetrical design, as well as tall columns and evenly spaced windows. However, this style became quite popular for wealthy individuals, as this style features a formal and classy construction that looks timeless and elegant. This home style reflects the architecture in Greece and Rome, making it have a historic look that appeals to certain architecture enthusiasts.
Originating in the early 1600s, the cape cod style home gained popularity in the 1930s. This home style was originally built by English colonists, with its construction paying homage to Britain’s thatched cottages. The original designs were meant to withstand the cold and harsh elements, which is why many of these homes feature large chimneys. The style is best known for its centralized entrance and dormer windows.
Much like its original counterpart, the colonial style, the Georgian colonial style takes a more lax approach by having a simpler architectural design. Although the colonial style has many different versions, the Georgian colonial style is recognizable for its box-like shape and decorative windows that have shutters. This home style is also symmetrical, and it can sometimes feature flat columns in the entrance.
There are plenty of home design options that can be seen in the Connecticut area. If you are a home buyer, you may not always have the luxury to shop for a specific design as many of these homes have already been built.
However, if you do have the budget to create a custom home with a particular design style, it may be in your best interest to reach out to architecture firms who can assist you in creating your dream home.
It is important to remember that there are a lot of considerations that are needed when it comes to creating a custom residential design, but consulting with an expert about cost expectations and timelines will give you a better idea of what to expect.
If you have an interior design or architectural design project in New York or Connecticut that requires some professional expertise, contact us today! We offer no obligations phone calls to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Stewart Schafer is an Interior and Architectural firm based in New York and Connecticut, click here to view some of our past projects and see how we can help.
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