Knowing More About Colonial Houses Style

Knowing More About Colonial Houses Style

One of the known American homes is the colonial houses style. This is not surprising since almost all the early American historical states and families live in these houses made with red brick and white window frames. These were also painted with green wooden doors and brown wooden roofs. The Colonial-style has several different designs that fall into four main categories such as Georgian, Dutch, Cape Cod, and Tidewater.

The Georgian colonial is the most popular design of all. It is characterized by its balanced and symmetrical appearance that has a simple rectangular shape with two or three floors. The roof is usually hipped and has dormers on the upper floor. A typical Georgian colonial house has a large front porch with tall pillars.

Meanwhile, the Dutch colonial features a steep roof that gets steeper toward the back of the house. The tall front wall holds one or two windows on the upper floor while there are shutters for sidewalls. It also has triangular knee braces under horizontal beams in between windows. Another characteristic is its brickwork which has smaller bricks laid in a herringbone pattern.

The Cape Cod colonial is the most modest of all the Colonial style houses. It usually has one and a half stories with a side gable roof, central chimney, and clapboard siding. The front of the house typically has two windows on either side of the door while there are four windows on the upper floor.

The Tidewater colonial is the most elegant of all the Colonial homes. It has a steep roof with boxed cornices and tall windows that are often arched at their tops. Its front door has two or four sidelights and an overhead fanlight window. This house style features large plantation houses set in rural areas along the Southern Atlantic coastline.

The Colonial House Style is truly a remarkable architectural hallmark for those who know how to appreciate its beauty and style. It’s not surprising why it is still the most popular house design even today as more people prefer this over any other type of house.

What is colonial style architecture?

Colonial architecture is an architectural style that was primarily used by European colonists throughout the globe. It was especially prominent in North America and South Africa, but also present in Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, Ireland, and other countries. The term describes styles of building that were common in these places during the colonial period which typically includes Georgian and Neo-classical styles.

The term “colonial” does not refer to a particular style or period of architecture but rather to the Europeans who moved into newly discovered and colonized areas during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Therefore, colonial style architecture has been replicated in many countries around the world as they built empires such as the British, French, Dutch, and Portuguese.

Some of the most recognizable features of colonial architecture include symmetrical design, classical columns, triangular pediments, and large windows. The style is often associated with grandeur and a sense of importance, reflecting the power and status of the colonists. Many buildings from this period are now considered historical landmarks and are protected by law.

So, what is colonial style architecture? It is a style of architecture that was commonly used by European colonists in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The style is characterized by symmetrical design, classical columns, triangular pediments, and large windows.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Colonial Style Home

We all know that colonial architecture has a lot of varieties globally, but it also depends on the geographical location which varies from country to country. The United States is divided into different regions so there are different types of houses in each state. On average, 98 percent of homes are made out of concrete or wood. This article will be focusing more on the Northeast region of the United States.

The following are some advantages and disadvantages of living in a colonial-style home:

Advantages:

  • Large spaces can be great for hosting gatherings or events.
  • Many homes were built sturdily and are well-built.
  • Colonial homes often have a sense of space and proportion, making them well suited for children to play in or adults to entertain guests in.
  • Many colonial style homes have large, open spaces which can be great for hosting gatherings or events.
  • The style often features beautiful architecture and detailing which can add value to your home.
  • Many colonial homes are well-built and sturdy, making them a good investment.

Disadvantages:

  • Many rooms can be poorly lit, resulting in a dark and gloomy feel.
  • The large spaces may not be conducive to small children running around.
  • The style can be quite expensive to maintain, especially if it is an older home.
  • The style can be difficult to renovate.
  • Some rooms in the home may be poorly lit, resulting in a dark and gloomy feel.

Living in a colonial style home has its pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a well-built, sturdy and spacious home, then a colonial-style home may be the perfect fit for you. Just keep in mind that if you choose to purchase an older model it can sometimes be costly to maintain the architecture and design details.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Colonial Style House?

The cost of building a colonial-style home can vary depending on the size, location, and materials that are used. Floor plans may also affect the price, as more rooms equal higher costs. The most expensive homes are typically in urban areas, while suburban homes are usually less expensive. Here is an average breakdown of the total costs to build a colonial home:

In most cases, the cost of a colonial-style home ranges from $260 to $300 per square foot. This price is heavily dependent on factors such as location and date of construction. For example, a traditionally built colonial in rural areas may only average around $175-$200 per square foot while a home built in an urban or suburban area may cost closer to $275-$325 per square foot.

Materials can also play a role in the overall cost of the project. Generally, homes built with traditional materials like brick and mortar will be more expensive than those constructed with vinyl or faux materials. Trim, doorways, and other architectural features can also add to the overall cost.

It is important to note that these costs are only estimates and may vary depending on the individual project. For a more accurate quote, it is best to consult with a contractor or builder in your area.

Building a colonial-style home can be a great investment, but it always pays to do your research beforehand. Keep in mind the average cost to build a colonial-style home, as well as the many advantages and disadvantages, to help you make the best decision for your family.

Conclusion

Understanding the history and evolution of colonial houses style will help you make more informed decisions when it comes to buying a home. Knowing how those who lived in these homes maintained them through generations can also be helpful as it relates to preserving your investment, either for yourself or if you plan on selling someday.

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