Colonial Architecture Guide: How to Spot Colonial-Style Homes (2024)

People often think of their homes as a reflection of who they are, and the style of architecture is no exception. Colonial-style homes can be found all over North America - they're one of the most popular styles in the northeast region. Keep reading to take a closer look at some common characteristics of American Colonial homes to see what makes this design so special.

What is Colonial Architecture?

Colonial architecture is one of the most popular styles in America, and it's easy to see why. But what exactly is colonial architecture?

According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of "colonial" is "of, relating to, or characteristic of a colony." So when people talk about colonial architecture, they're referring to the style of architecture that was popular in America during the colonial period. This style originated in England and was brought over to America by the early settlers as they founded the American colonies.

Origins Of The Colonial Design Style

The origins of colonial houses can be traced back to England. The early settlers brought this style over to America, and it soon became one of the most popular styles in the country. There are many variations within colonial-style homes, but they all share some common characteristics that make them uniquely American.

Key Exterior Features of Colonial Architecture

In colonial-style homes, you'll find steep roofs, prominent chimneys, decorative exterior shutters or columns, and exposed wooden beams and interior floors. The building materials commonly include clapboard wood siding and brick. These features set it apart from other architectural styles like Victorian or Monterey, but there are many variations within colonial-style houses that make them uniquely American.

Two Stories

Most colonial-style homes are at least two stories, but there are some exceptions. Some colonial homes have three stories, while others have only one story. The one-story colonial homes are more common in the South, while the two- and three-story homes are more common in the North.

Symmetrical Architecture

Most colonial-style homes are symmetrical, with the left and right sides mirroring each other and a rectangular overall shape. However, this isn't always the case—some colonial-style homes are asymmetrical, with one side differing from the other.

Decorative Entryways

One of the most common features of colonial-style homes is their decorative entryways. This is a major factor of their curb appeal, and it's often a focal point of the home. Many colonial-style homes have a grand entrance with a large porch and beautiful columns. These houses are often embellished with shutters or window boxes, too.

There are lots of variations on what can be considered traditional, but most people would agree that shutters give the home an inviting look while columns give it an elegant feel.

Pitched Roofs

Pitched roofs are another common feature of colonial-style homes. This style of roof is characterized by its sloping or angled sides, which gives it a more dramatic look. A pitched roof is often used on homes with two or three stories, and it can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, asphalt, metal, or slate.

Pitched roofs are popular because they offer many benefits:

• They're stylish and elegant
• They're versatile and can be used on a variety of home styles
• They're durable and can last for many years
• They're easy to maintain
• They're weather-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions

Chimneys

Another key feature of colonial-style homes is their large chimneys. Chimneys are often used to let smoke and heat escape from the home, but they can also be used as a decorative element. Many colonial-style homes have two or three large chimneys, which help to make the home look more stately.

Large, Multipaned Windows

Large windows are one of the most distinguishing features of colonial-style homes. They let in a lot of light and air, and they're often divided into several small panes of glass by a grid. Dormer windows are common, and colonial homes often feature matched sets of windows across the front facade.

Decorative Moulding

Decorative or ornamental moulding is a type of trim that's often used around doors, windows, and ceilings. It can be made from a variety of materials and is common in colonial-style homes because it gives them a classic look.

There are lots of different types of decorative moulding, and each one has its own unique style. Some common types include:

• Crown moulding - This type of moulding is often used along the tops of walls, and it's designed to look like a crown or headpiece.
• Baseboard moulding - This type of moulding is used along the edge of flooring and helps protect the wall from damage.
• Window casing - This type of moulding is used around windows, and it helps protect the window from weather damage.

Pros and Cons of American Colonial-Style Homes

American Colonial architecture is popular, but there are advantages and disadvantages to living in this type of home. Here are a few of the pros and cons of living in a Colonial home:

Pros

• They often have a classic, timeless design.
• These homes often have spacious rooms, which offer plenty of space for family and guests and make it easy to host parties and other special events..
• They have an elegant appearance, thanks to their decorative entryways, large windows, decorative moulding, and other features.

Cons

• The stairs often found in colonial-style homes can be hard to climb for people with mobility issues.
• American colonial-style homes are usually closed off, which could be a deterrent for people who prefer open floor plans.
• Large rooms in American colonial-style homes can sometimes be more costly to cool since they need more air flow to accommodate the size.

Despite the few disadvantages, this type of architecture is still popular. They offer a classic look and stately appearance, and they're appealing to households who want extra space for entertaining guests.

The Influence of Colonial Architecture Today

Colonial-style architecture is still popular today, and there are many reasons why. Some of the most popular features of colonial-style homes have stood the test of time and are still considered to be stylish and elegant.

One of the main reasons why colonial-style homes are so popular is because they're so versatile. They can fit in a variety of settings, from suburban neighborhoods to downtown areas. They also come in a variety of sizes and styles, including Dutch Colonial and Spanish Colonial, so they can be used to accommodate a range of needs and stylistic preferences.

Additionally, colonial-style homes are often associated with a sense of history and nostalgia, evoking images of America's early days. This makes them a popular choice for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. By having a colonial-style home, they can feel like they're living in a romanticized era while also enjoying all of the benefits that come with modern architecture.

Buy a Colonial Home Today

American Colonial-style homes are a timeless architectural style that has stood the test of time. With their simple design, expansive rooms, and classic appeal to many people's taste in colonial-style décor, American colonial-style homes are perfect for those who want to entertain guests, claim a piece of American history, or simply enjoy living in an elegant home. Those interested in colonial homes should take a look at the many neighborhoods with colonial-style architecture.