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Home styles vary widely across cultures and personal preferences, offering unique architectural features that give insight into history, geography, and lifestyle. Discover some of the more common home styles, their defining characteristics, and examples.
According to Redfin, the most popular styles of homes across all of the United States are Ranch, Craftsman, Colonial, Cape Cod, and Tudor, followed by Victorian, Mediterranean, and then Modern. Two newer styles that haven’t yet made the list include the “Barn-dominium” and the “Shouse” (a mashup of Shop + House). The Barndominium is spacious and has high ceilings, steel siding and roof, an open floor plan, and a porch. A barndominium is essentially a large pole barn with living quarters, but don’t let the simplistic concept fool you – they can get quite extravagant. The Shouse is similar in concept and incorporates everything the barndominium does, except it also includes a separate area designated for a workshop. Both have been growing in popularity, particularly in rural or agricultural areas, due in large part to higher energy efficiency and a lower overall cost compared to two separate buildings.
RANCH
Ranch-style homes became popular in America after World War II. These single-story dwellings are known for their extended, low profile and integration with the surrounding landscape.
CRAFTSMAN
Known for its handcrafted details and natural materials, the Craftsman style emerged in the early 20th century as an alternative to industrialized mass home construction. It often features wide porches, low-pitched roofs, and exposed wooden structural elements.
COLONIAL
The Colonial style is a classic American design that reflects the architectural styles of the early settlers. Generally symmetrical with a rectangular footprint, it often features a central entrance, gabled roofs, and a brick or wood façade.
TUDOR
Tudor style homes draw inspiration from medieval England and are recognizable by their steeply pitched roofs, decorative exterior half-timbering, and embellished doorways.
CAPE COD
Originating in early 17th-century New England, Cape Cod-style homes are known for their steep roofs, central chimneys, and dormer windows. These homes are often found in coastal areas and evoke a cozy charm and quaint appeal.
VICTORIAN
Originating from the Victorian era (mid-19th to early 20th century), Victorian homes are renowned for their ornate detailing, complex rooflines, and asymmetrical shapes. Tower-like structures, vibrant colors, and large porches are also common features.