Is there such a thing as an 'American house design?' There sure is. American house designs are truly inspiring and as diverse as the people who inhabit them. Considering that America is often referred to as the 'melting pot' of various ethnicities and cultures that form the fabric of the nation, the country's architectural style is just as unique. In this article, we will explore some of the best American house designs that you can draw inspiration from.
1. Colonial Style American Classic House Design
Ideal for: People who want a family-first design and enjoy entertaining guests.
A colonial-style home is characterized by its historic charm and elegant simplicity. Inspired by the architectural styles used by the early English, French, Spanish, and Dutch settlers in American colonies, colonial homes feature saltbox-shaped exteriors made of wood or brick. These homes often feature classical details such as columned or pedimented porticoes and multi-pane double-hung windows with shutters. Step inside, and you'll find a central stair hall with a cozy living room on one side and a dining room on the other. The kitchen is typically located at the rear side.
2. American Modern House Design: A Mix of Glass, Wood, and Natural Stone
Ideal for: People who want a personalized floor plan executed with precision and clarity.
A modern home is all about the homeowner's personal taste and modern architectural concepts. Modern homes are characterized by rectangular-shaped exteriors with flat or slanted roof lines. Creative use of glass panels for windows and doors not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves energy efficiency. The design aesthetic is minimal, clean, and with a no-frills philosophy. The color scheme is often restricted to monochromatic tones or natural colors.
3. The Gold Standard of American Style House Interior: Tudor Style Homes
Ideal for: People who appreciate architectural drama and a storybook style home.
Tudor-style American house designs have gained popularity in recent decades. These homes feature tall gable/uphill roofs, patterned brick or stone chimneys, transverse overhangs, high and broad windows, and diagonal/vertical beams reminiscent of the medieval English era. Tudor-style homes are one and a half to two stories in terms of the floor layout. Towering windows, large bedrooms with ample natural light, and traditional wood accents are significant features.
4. American House Design Styles: A Fusion of Trending Contemporary Elements
Ideal for: Families or couples who desire larger homes and flexibility in design and layout.
Contemporary house designs in America represent a fusion of trending architectural elements. These homes embody a mixture of styles, from traditional to modern, creating a balance between advanced, modern aesthetics and unique traditional elements. Creative use of wood exteriors, open floor layouts, and large windows for natural lighting make contemporary American houses stand out.
5. American House Design: Victorian Style
Ideal for: Those who appreciate intricate architectural features and a bright exterior color scheme.
Victorian-style American homes are characterized by their ornate elements, including towers, turrets, verandas, and multiple rooms. These homes draw inspiration from the late 19th-century Victorian era of home building, named after Queen Victoria of England. Victorian homes come in various shapes and sizes, featuring wood or stone exteriors and elaborate embellishments on doors and windows.
6. American House Design: Ranch Style
Ideal for: Homeowners who prefer a functional and simplified lifestyle.
Ranch-style homes are single-story houses with shallow gable roofs and open layouts. They often feature seamless indoor-outdoor living areas, shingles or stucco sidings, and the option of a useful basement area. These homes provide plenty of amenities and a single-story layout, making them ideal for a functional and simplified lifestyle.
7. American House Design: Beach-Style Houses
Ideal for: Homeowners who wish to enjoy the outdoor life in a waterfront home.
Beach-style homes, also known as coastal homes, are designed to bring the outdoors in. They feature airy and open outdoor living spaces like wraparound porches, sun-kissed decks, and roomy verandas to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings. These homes often have private master balconies and raised main floors to allow water to pass underneath.
8. American House Design: Old-World Bungalow Style Houses
Ideal for: Homeowners with smaller suburban lots and tighter budgets.
Old-world bungalow style houses are compact, long, and small in size yet practical in use. They often feature cute, wide front porches supported by tapered or paired columns and low rooflines. The floor plans are open and logically arranged, with plenty of windows for natural lighting. These homes make the most of storage needs with practical built-in spaces.
9. American House Design: Queen Anne House Style
Ideal for: People who need a big space to accommodate large families.
The Queen Anne home style is characterized by multiple stories, large footprints, huge turrets, grandiose details, and exquisite workmanship. These homes feature a mix of ancient Greek and Roman styles, such as columns, pediments, and ornaments. Queen Anne-style homes offer plenty of rooms and functionality.
10. American House Design: Mediterranean-themed European Style Houses
Ideal for: Single-family houses with two to three bedrooms.
Mediterranean-themed European-style houses are known for their brick or stone exteriors, arched openings, and red tile roofs. They feature high-pitched roofs, tall windows with shutters, and traditionally-designed ornamental decor. The open floor plans offer flexibility in sizes and styles.
There are thousands of American house designs and styles to choose from. The style you select will depend on your family's goals and needs. Whatever design theme and floor plan you choose, consult with a professional to bring your vision to life. For more inspiration and ideas on American house designs, head over to HomeLane.
FAQs
1. What is the most common house style in America?
The ranch house style is perhaps the most common house style in America. These single-floor homes with low roof lines can be found in cities and suburban areas. Variations of the ranch style include California ranch-style homes and split-level ranch homes, each with unique living spaces and layouts.
2. What is the American house style generally called?
The American house style is generally known as the colonial house style. Inspired by the colonial era, these homes often have two or three stories, dedicated fireplaces, and beautiful brick or wood facades. Over the years, colonial-style houses have evolved into Colonial Revival homes.
3. What are some of the most common American home styles and architectures?
Some of the most common American home styles and architectural designs include colonial, ranch, beach house, Mediterranean, cabin, classical, craftsmen, and country styles.
4. What is the most common house type in America?
Detached, single-family homes are the most widely-used housing style in America. These homes feature private front doors, backyards, and buffer spaces for privacy.
