6 Popular Home Designs and Exterior Characteristics

Your home’s exterior is more than just its outer shell; it’s the first impression you make on visitors, and it reflects your personal style and the character of your property. The design choices you make for your home can transform it into a visual masterpiece. Whether you’re embarking on a complete renovation or simply looking to refresh your home’s exterior, here are six different architecture styles that are sure to impress. 

Art Deco 

Art Deco is a design style which was introduced in the early 20th Century. It epitomizes sophistication and glamour. Art Deco, with its geometric patterns, luxurious fabrics, and bold colors, is a timeless design choice for homeowners who want to make a dramatic exterior statement. This style seamlessly combines historical elegance with modern innovations, creating homes that are both striking as well as refined.

The use of patterns, shapes and luxurious materials such as polished marble or granite will give your home a luxurious feel. Art Deco uses bold color schemes to highlight architectural elements. Classic color combinations include black and gold, deep greens and whites, and deep blues with silver. Art Deco also features elements like cornices and medallions.

Tip: Landscape your Art Deco house with geometric shapes and clean lines. Structured garden beds and neatly trimmed hedging will harmonize the architectural style.

Cape Cod 

Cape Cod style is a timeless design that is inspired by New England colonial homes. It evokes a feeling of timeless simplicity, and charm. This design style, rooted in early American tradition reflects the rugged but inviting nature of coastal life. Cape Cod architecture offers a warm and authentic home with its clean lines and functional design.

The key characteristics are simple, symmetrical and balanced designs that emphasize functionality and balance. Cape Cod architecture is known for its gabled roofs and shuttered windows. Cape Cod exteriors usually feature a soft neutral color palette. Common choices include shades such as gray, beige and white. Consider using darker colors or contrasting ones for the trim, shutters, doors, and windows to create a classic, elegant look. A small, welcoming front porch with simple railings is also common, providing a place to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining the home’s functional aesthetic.

Tip: Select exterior lighting fixtures in a classic design. The traditional look of Cape Cod homes can be enhanced with lantern-style sconces and fixtures in classic black or bronze finishes.

Colonial Style

Colonial exterior style is inspired by the architecture and design of early American settlers. It embodies a classic symmetry, as well as a sense historical grandeur. Colonial design is characterized with its elegant details and traditional materials. Colonial design reflects an enduring formality and a rich heritage. This style is ideal for those who enjoy a timeless aesthetic that is rooted in American History.

The key features of this style are the incorporation Georgian influence, such as the use porticos that are supported by classical columns. It also uses classic materials, like brick and stones, to achieve an timeless appearance. Colonial homes usually have a simple gable roof with a medium pitch and detailed doorways with decorative moulding. 

Tip: Install double-hung window symmetrically. Choose shutters that match the home’s exterior color and enhance the overall symmetry.

Farmhouse 

The Farmhouse exterior style is a blend of rural simplicity, practical elegance and modern comforts. This design style, rooted in rural America, celebrates natural elements, functional features, as well as a warm and inviting aesthetic. This style has been combined with modern style to create a new take on rustic modernity. It is ideal for those who enjoy a blend rustic charm and contemporary livability.

Some key features include gabled roofs and wide overhangs which provide both aesthetic appeal and practical protection for the home’s exterior, enhancing its rustic charm. Wood siding is a popular choice for traditional farmhouse exteriors. Popular finishes include painted or natural wood in colors ranging from whites, grays, and earthy tones. 

A large front porch is another hallmark of Farmhouse style. These porches usually have simple railings and are covered. They provide a relaxing and social space.

Tip: Choose a metal roof or traditional shingles in neutral colors to complement the home’s rustic style. Ensure that the roofing material will enhance the durability and practicality of the design.

Mid-Century Modern 

The Mid-Century Modern Exterior Style, popular in the 1940s through the 1960s is renowned for it’s clean lines, functional design and seamless integration of nature. This design style is timeless and embraces simplicity, innovation, a connection with the environment, and a commitment to innovation. Mid-Century Modern Exteriors are perfect for those who enjoy minimalist aesthetics as well as architectural integrity. They offer a perfect combination of form and functionality.

Clean, geometric lines with minimal ornamentation are key features. Facades are often flat or gently sloped, contributing to the home’s sleek, modern look, while floor-to-ceiling windows are also popular for uniting both the indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural materials such as wood and stone are also popular. Wood siding and paneling provide warmth and texture. Stone accents add a grounding organic element. 

Mid-Century Modern exteriors are usually painted in neutral or earthy colors, such as shades of beige, taupe, gray and white. These colors highlight the natural materials and clean lines.

Tip: Due to this style’s emphasis on a harmonious relationship with the environment, select landscaping and exterior materials that complement the natural setting, such as native plants and simple geometric garden beds. 

Victorian Style

Victorian exterior design was popular in the mid to late 19th century. It’s known for its ornate detailing, rich textures, eclectic mix of styles, and architectural details. This design style is named after Queen Victoria and reflects an age of prosperity, artistic expression, and wealth. Victorian homes are characterized with their intricate details, vibrant colors, complex shapes and complex forms. They offer a timeless elegance and charm that continues to capture.

To enhance the visual appeal, ornate details such as decorative trim can be used. The use of patterned roof shingles can also add to the style of the home, while the addition of turrets or towers can transport people to another time. 

Victorian homes often have stained glass windows in vibrant colors and intricate patterns, as well large wraparound porches that are ornately decorated with columns, decorative details, and elaborate railings. These porches provide a welcoming space for gathering and entry.

Tip: Victorian exteriors use bold, rich colors and intricate color schemes. Consider deep colors like burgundy and forest green. 

Remember that the key for a successful exterior design lies in balancing aesthetics and practicality. Consider how each style aligns with your home’s environment, your personal tastes, and your lifestyle needs. The right materials, colors and architectural elements can enhance your home’s visual appeal and ensure its durability and comfort.

Are you interested in entering the market this year? Call us now!Zoocasa has a team of experienced real estate professionals who are ready to assist you in the exciting home buying process.