The best part about building a custom home is the creative and architectural liberty that lets you control every design and structural aspect of your home. There are various architectural styles to base your home on, from historical to modern approaches. While specific designs dominate certain regions, more diversity can be seen in the type of houses built nowadays. Building a custom home means that you can pick and choose from different styles, incorporate unconventional design elements, and create a home that has the perfect architectural style that is both visually appealing and practical.
But a long list of responsibilities must be taken care of alongside the fun of creating your own house. One of the main factors to consider before choosing a home style is the location of your home. Some designs are better suited for specific environments. Other things to consider include the surrounding landscape, neighbourhood structure, etc. In this article, we will take a closer look at 6 main home design styles, the advantages and drawbacks of each, and which one might be best for you.
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Colonial
Colonial home design is one of the oldest architectural styles still widely popular today. Each region has its interpretation of the style, but certain qualities are very distinct and characterize this style of architecture. For instance, colonial homes have evenly spaced shutters and windows. The exterior is almost always made of brick with interior wood panelling. These homes also commonly have central chimneys and are usually 2 stories.
A colonial home can easily be identified by its exterior with a symmetrical design accented with dentil moulding. The roofs are steep and significant for areas with heavy rain and snow. The general layout would be the living room, bathrooms, kitchen, and dining area on the first floor and bedrooms on the second. The focal point of a colonial house is the grand staircase, which is the first thing you see when you enter.
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Cape Cod
Cape Cod homes are also quite old in terms of the time of origin but are still a widely used design for building houses. These homes are usually built with oak or pine to make the structure sturdy enough to endure harsh weather, specifically winter. Their low roofs are ideal for snow-prone locations since they prevent snow build-up on the roof and help preserve heat inside the home.
These homes usually also have a central chimney. Over the years, the Cape Cod style has undergone many changes and evolved to its current 3 variations: the half-cape, the three-fourth cape, and the full cape. Half cape homes have a door and multi-paned windows on one side. The expanded version would be the three-fourth cape in which the door and multi-paned windows are found on one side of the home and a single window on the other. The most popular variation these days is the full cape, where, unlike in the other two variations, there is a central door with symmetrical windows on either side.
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Farmhouse
The farmhouse design was native to rural locations and was designed to accommodate the necessities of living a life in the agricultural sector. The most recognizable features of a modern farmhouse are its outdoor porches and large mudrooms. Modern farmhouses, quite similar to the stylish pole barn, are generally built with wood. The exteriors are reinforced with clapboards that overlap the horizontal wooden boards. This helps limit wind damage and prevents moisture from seeping into the base structure.
Modern farmhouses’ beauty is that they stay true to the original simple aesthetic of old-time farmhouses. While the architecture may be modified to be more accommodating, the essence of the farmhouse is always preserved. Its trademark features are simple exteriors with flat boards, crown mouldings, and square columns.
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Victorian
Victorian housing, marked by the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, epitomises architectural freedom and the incorporation of different aesthetic styles. Victorian homes place heavy emphasis on visual appeal and aesthetics over functionality. Victorian homes are elaborate, intricate, and very detail-oriented.
Usually, two stories have asymmetrical floor plans, large porches, steep roofs with pitches, grand staircases and towers. Victorian homes are bright with vibrant colours, decorative ceilings, and extravagant lighting. Floor planning is not systematic, with rooms scattered throughout the house. These are acquired and refined tastes, and to build a Victorian home from the base, you’ll need to start with a proper plan.
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Transitional
Transitional housing, a mixture of contemporary and classic designs, is in full swing. As the name suggests, this style of architecture is a mid-point between traditional and modern design elements. The interiors and exteriors are inspired by home architecture from many different eras. Transitional homes blend different styles to make a complete and coordinated space. Transitional homes do not have any distinct features since they borrow something unique from each style. It is likely transitional if a home doesn’t fit into a specific aesthetic and has complementary and opposing styles coming together to create a neutral space. Implementing transitional style into your custom home design entails careful planning. A professional builder can help you navigate the complexities of merging traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly. They can also guide you through selecting design elements, materials, and finishes that align with your vision.
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Modern
Modern home designs began to grow with the evolution of traditional neoclassical architecture. Modern architecture isn’t to be confused with contemporary architecture, which refers to current trends. Inspired by the historical modernism movement, modern architecture focuses on open floor plans and spacious rooms, integrating the interior with the functionality of the exterior and overall value. Modern homes are all the rage these days and are widely found in major cities. You can even find new home builders that offer this style at a fraction of the cost of building a custom home.
Open floor plans, characterized by a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, are common in modern homes, fostering a sense of spaciousness and flexibility. Embracing clean lines and minimalism is key, avoiding excessive ornamentation and clutter. Large windows are incorporated to maximize natural light. This also helps establish a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Prioritizing energy efficiency is crucial, with features like solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and well-insulated windows. Integrating smart home technology for automation and control adds a contemporary touch. A seamless indoor-outdoor living experience is achieved through sliding glass doors and outdoor living areas. Modern colour palettes often feature neutral tones with bold accents.
Flexible furniture layouts accommodate various activities and changing needs. Integrating natural elements, like stone, bricks, and wood, brings warmth and a connection to nature. In addition, customization and personalization, reflecting the occupants’ lifestyle, are essential for a modern home that is both stylish and comfortable.
These are just a few of the many architectural styles out there. If you’re confused about what will suit your tastes best, talk with a professional contractor and interior designer to build the home of your dreams. Each style has its benefits, and ultimately, choosing a home style is all about creating a functional space that reflects your taste and personality.
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