Best 52+ Awe-inspiring Classic American House Design Top Choices Of Architects

The Colonial style has its roots in the early 1700s when immigrants from England, the Netherlands, and elsewhere were drawn to the idea of an elegant and refined homestead. This traditional style is easy to spot due to its predominantly white, rectangular clapboard siding, and symmetrical windows repeated throughout the front of the house. Inside these homes, vivid colors, detailed crown moldings, and gleaming hardwood floors are common features.

From Victorian era homes, exuberant and brightly hued designs take a cue from the contrasting and heavily ornamented architecture of the 19th century. The unique Victorian silhouette is characterized by steep gables, wrap-around porches, bay windows, and intricate stonework. Inside, these homes are often fantastically designed with warm wallpapers, ornate furniture, and asymmetrical layouts that surprise and delight.

The Bungalow style is popular among those who want the comforts of Victorian architecture without the delicate ornamentation or gabled rooflines. These homes often employ a low-pitched roof, with wide overhangs, and a prominent front porches. Common features of a Bungalow style design include large rectangular windows, a neat symmetrical layout, and an exterior of shingles or clapboard.

The Cape Cod style is a classic representation of a mid-1800s New England cottage. These homes feature a steep roof pitch, a wide dormer, a chimney, and symmetrical windows. Exteriors of these homes are often painted in pale gray shades highlighted with white accents, while the interiors feature hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, and light-filled rooms.

Craftsman style homes were developed in the early 20th century, based on the Craftsman movement which began in California. These homes use deep, overhanging eaves, a wide porch, prominent front gables, and siding and architectural accents that are typically seen in the wood or stone. Inside, Craftsman homes feature beautiful woodwork, including coffered ceilings and built-in furniture.

Developed in the 1950s, Split-Level homes offer a functional layout separated into three sections: the living and dining area, the kitchen, and the bedrooms. These homes often feature an open concept interior, connected by a staircase with steps that lead up to the second floor. Exterior features of these homes can include siding, brick, or stone, usually painted in vibrant colors, with a variety of windows.

Modern Mediterranean houses were inspired by the architecture of Italian cities, featuring pastel colored stucco walls and patterned tiles on the roof. These homes often feature beautiful, large courtyards, open arches, and vibrant colors throughout the interior. On the exterior, grand windows are one of the signature characteristics of this style, allowing plenty of natural light and breathtaking views.

The Tudor Revival style invokes a sense of grandeur and elegance, with intricate stone and brickwork, ornate accents and lofted chimney stacks. Characterized by a steep pitched roof, these homes feature dark wood tones, small multi-paned windows, and a masonry façade. Inside, you’ll find oversized fireplaces, hand-carved millwork, and columns.

The Ranch-Style design was popular in the 1950s, most often seen in suburban neighborhoods throughout America. These large single-story homes feature open layouts, high ceilings, and an iconic, low-pitched gable roof. Exteriors are often made of stucco or brick and feature extended patios or decks. Inside, gardens, spacious bedrooms, and well-lit gathering areas are some of the most popular attributes.

The Shingle-Style house is an iconic American design, featuring unique elements such as multiple rooflines, turrets with conical roofs, and characteristic “fish scale” shingles. Beneath the distinctive exterior, these homes often contain large and well-lit open spaces that invite the outdoors in. Skylights, bay windows, and wraparound porches are also common features of this type of design.