Best Of 83+ Exquisite American Small House Design You Won't Be Disappointed

Modern American small house designs are highlighted by clean lines and unique shapes. Large windows and open living spaces encourage ample daylight and air to flow throughout the home. Exterior color schemes are mostly white with accents of grey, black, yellow, and blue. Materials like wood, steel, concrete, and glass are often used to create a contemporary appearance. These modern houses emphasize a simple and efficient use of space, creating strong architectural statements.

Contemporary American small house designs combine styles from around the world. Open floor plans and environmentally-friendly building materials bring the outdoors in, which extends the living space into the natural environment outside. Flat, asymmetrical roofs provide large overhangs for shade and lead to interesting wall shapes with nooks and crannies that can be highlighted with vibrant accent colors. Interesting lighting fixtures, modern furnishings, and artwork create an inviting interior.

Craftsman American small house designs have a tradition of good craftsmanship and quality. Built between 1895 and 1915, these houses feature large, overhanging eaves, wraparound porches, and exposed beams and rafters. Exteriors are usually clapboard or shingle siding and stone, and may feature a mix of other materials. Interiors boast built-in cabinetry, wide baseboards, and various decorative and artisanal finishes.

Ranch American small house designs are characterized by a single-story floor plan or a raised ranch, often with a porch across the front or multiple porches along the sides. The exterior of ranch houses usually contains wood, stone, asphalt shingles, stucco, or a combination of the materials. Interiors have an open-concept floor plan with large windows and sliding glass doors that connect the interior to an outdoor patio or deck. Natural materials, such as wood, stone, and brick, create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Cape Cod American small house designs are full of classic charm. These houses have steep roofs with dormers, decorative shutters, and multiple stories with a symmetrical appearance. Stone, brick, and cedar shakes are used to create a traditional look. Interiors feature hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, and fireplace mantels. Cape Cod houses draw inspiration from English colonials, with fine craftsmanship and an abundance of character.

Tuscan American small house designs are derived from the Italian region of Tuscany. These houses are typically two stories and feature a square or rectangular shape and symmetrical façade. Stucco walls, terracotta tiled roofs, and arched windows or doors are used to create a Mediterranean look. Interiors boast rustic and old-world details, such as exposed wood beams, stone and tile floors, and ornamental iron fixtures.

Victorian American small house designs are crafted to reflect the grandeur of a bygone era. These houses are characterized by ornate details, such as arched windows, turrets, and wrap-around porches. Wood clapboard, brick, and stucco siding are typical exteriors. Interiors feature gleaming hardwood floors, intricate crown moldings, and traditional furnishings that lend an air of sophistication. Both the exterior and interior of a Victorian house exudes extravagance and charm.

Cottage American small house designs are comfortable and inviting. These houses, usually one or one-and-a-half stories, have features like low-pitched roofs, deep overhangs, and diamond-paned windows. Exterior materials, such as wood siding bathed in white, slate roofs, and stone chimneys easily evoke a classic, cozy cottage feel. Interiors feature natural materials, like hardwood floors and stone fireplaces, and custom furnishings that make them both livable and inviting.

Bungalow American small house designs exhibit the simplicity of early 20th century Craftsman style homes. These one and a half story houses feature covered porches, large windows, and overhangs along the roofline. Materials might include wood siding and shingle, mixed with brick or stucco for an inviting façade. Interiors usually feature exposed ceiling beams, wainscotting, built-in bookshelves, and hardwood floors.

Mediterranean American small house designs incorporate island vibes into the exterior while adding unique interior details. These houses feature clay tile roofs, stucco walls, arched windows and doors, and colorful tile accents. Interiors are full of vibrant colors, intricate tilework, and bright fabrics. The Mediterranean style focuses on functionality and comfort, creating a warm and inviting home.

Spanish American small house designs have a charm and romance reminiscent of the Old World. These one or two story houses feature a symmetrical façade with a low-pitched tile roof, arched windows and doors, and wrought iron details. Stucco, plaster, and stone are used for the exterior. Inside, Spanish houses contain tile floors, exposed beams, wooden furnishings, and bright, cheerful colors.