The Most Popular Architectural House Styles in the United States

Known for humble, historic roots, the Cape Cod Design comes from the historical founders and craftsmen of the area and it’s considered one of the most fundamental American designs. Typically found in the northeast of the United States, Cape Cod homes are usually built of local wood and stone to withstand the challenging conditions of this geographic location. The main architectural elements of Cape Code homes are identified by:

• Shingle exteriors
• Modest size and ornamentation
• Originally single-story homes
• Large central fireplaces
• Dormer windows (20th-century revival)

Photo Credit: Therma-Tru

The Craftsman style home developed in California during the late 1800’s and prospered through the 1920’s, reflecting the Arts & Crafts design movement. Craftsman homes are known for being simple and uncomplicated, two elements that continue to contribute to their appeal and rapid expansion. They have a very distinctive architectural design, with deep porches and large columns made of wood, brick or stone. These homes are designed to highlight the craftsmanship of its builders, which can be seen in their typical design elements:

• A low-pitched roof with overhanging eaves
• A covered porch
• Woodwork including exposed beams
• Natural tones for both interior and exterior

Photo Credit: Masonite

Cottage-style homes originated in England in the late 18th century, but they can be seen in every region of the United States, although they’re most common along the gulf coast and east coast. The popularity of this design style can be attributed to the fact that this style evokes notions of tradition and home, emphasizing charm and comfort over ornamentation. Due to the typical small size of Cottage homes, this style is very versatile and remains a timeless design. The distinguishing design elements are:

• Asymmetrical exterior
• One to one-and-a-half stories
• Traditional aesthetics that aren’t too rustic
• Open floor plans with wide halls and doorways

Photo Credit: Therma-Tru

The rise of the Modern Farmhouse style reflects an embrace of simplicity and practicality. The Farmhouse style first emerged in the Midwest in the mid-1800s, featuring a look that ranged from small, simple structures to more elaborate homes bordering on Victorian. Today, the Farmhouse style can be seen across the US, where homes showcase an urban edge that mixes well with other styles, yet still retaining a warm, approachable feel. Although the Farmhouse style has evolved with time and location, there are certain design elements that stay consistent:

• Rectangular floor plan
• Large front porches
• Natural wood and stone materials
• Few and small windows
• Formal front rooms separated from family rooms

Photo Credit: Andersen

This Colonial House Style first originated in the colonial era in the 1600s, but it has since evolved constantly throughout the country as new communities built these homes to better suit their culture. Colonial-style homes have distinctive features that make them recognizable: from having two or three stories, to the typical brick or wood facade. The classic Colonial-style house floor plan has the kitchen and family room on the first floor and the bedrooms on the second floor. Some of the most common and familiar features of the Colonial Style include:

• A side-gabled roof
• Two floors
• A centered front door
• Symmetrical windows on either side of the door