There are many different types of homes. Choosing the right one can depend on your budget, preferences, and local real estate market.
Home styles come and go, but there are a few that have remained in vogue for a long time. Here are 5 that you may want to consider when building or renovating your next home.
Craftsman
Craftsman-style homes are a popular choice for homeowners looking for an American bungalow with a practical floor plan. These home plans have a small footprint but provide plenty of open space for natural lighting and good ventilation.
They also feature low-pitched gabled roofs with wide eaves and exposed roof rafters. These features can be especially attractive in the front of a home, which can make it stand out from surrounding structures.
These homes typically use wood trim to accentuate windows and doors. Some even feature stained glass or multiple panes, which is a great way to add more light and natural-looking color to the home.
They often incorporate built-in storage, which can include bookcases and window seats. These spaces are perfect for storing coats, shoes, and other items.
Prairie
The Prairie style of home is known for its sweeping horizontal lines, low or hipped roofs with large overhanging eaves, and central chimneys. It was a pioneering design in modern architecture and was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement.
It was designed to blend with the land and become one with nature and also known for its spacious floor plans and large windows.
Unlike other designs, Prairie houses were built from the inside out, with an intentional flow from the interior to the exterior. They were also designed to be sturdier than other structures.
Colonial
The Colonial style of home is a traditional American design that is most commonly found in the Northeast and in some parts of the South. It is characterized by a symmetrical shape with a central front door and windows on either side of the house.
In addition, it has a sloping roof with medium-pitched gables and double-hung windows. Older homes will have a pair of chimneys in the center of the roof that leads down to twin first-floor fireplaces.
The style is characterized by a simple floor plan, with kitchen and living areas on the ground floor and bedrooms upstairs. It also features a stairway that leads from the entry to a hallway that bisects the middle of the second floor.
Mediterranean
Mediterranean-style homes evoke the luxury and romance of seaside resorts in warm climates like California, Florida, and the Southwest. The style first gained popularity in the US when prominent architects such as Bertram Goodhue and Addison Mizner began experimenting with it.
The exterior of a typical Mediterranean house is defined by its big, symmetrical facade. It’s usually topped with a low-pitched terra-cotta roof and painted a light, off-white, or cream color.
Stucco walls are also popular in Mediterranean homes because they help keep the interior cool in warm weather. In addition, they promote airflow that helps release trapped heat.
A Mediterranean home’s exterior may be decorated with colorful blooms and greenery. These accents can connect the home to its lush yard and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Floating Houseboat
The floating houseboat style of home is one of the most unique and appealing types of homes. They’re a great option for water lovers who want to be able to enjoy the scenery without sacrificing space and comfort.
The design of these homes tends to lean very modernly, with sleek lines and repurposed materials. Some even have two stories and lots of big windows to take in the view.
They aren’t for everyone, but this type of home can be a great way to escape from the stress of modern life. Plus, you can easily rent out your floating house for bachelor and bachelorette parties, reunions, or honeymooning couples.
Floating homes also come with fees and inconveniences, so you’ll need to consider the pros and cons of this lifestyle before making a decision.
