What is a Traditional-Style Home?
Traditional-style homes are inspired, as the name implies, by tradition. Traditional homes don’t follow a specific blueprint. Instead, they mix and match elements from multiple historical architectural styles, especially those from the 17th and 18th centuries.
What is a Traditional-Style House?
The traditional-style home is the most sought-after style of home in America today. This style combines elements from classic homes with contemporary home design elements. Simple rooflines and symmetrically placed windows characterize this style. It also has subtle details.
The History of Traditional-Style Houses
Most “traditional” homes built in the 20th century will combine colonial and farmhouse style elements. Many “modern” homes will include modern interpretations of historical elements.
Traditional homes don’t have a standard floor plan but are known for being simple, elegant, and welcoming. Traditional homes can be found in urban and rural settings due to their subtle appearance. Traditional-style homes look great no matter where they are located.
What makes a house traditional?
The traditional-style home design incorporates characteristics from several historical architectural styles, especially those of the 17th or 18th centuries.
Even if you don’t have a clearly defined style, there are some things you can expect from traditional floor plans. These homes usually have two stories with defined living and dining areas on the first floor, bedrooms, and a basement on the second floor.
Traditional-style homes are warm and welcoming. They also have a unique blend of historic architectural styles that gives them a classical, serene exterior. Rooflines are discreet and simple. They almost always have at least one front-facing gable. Windows can be any style, but they should always be symmetrically placed around the house. While some homes have a covered porch supported by columns for traditional homes, the front porch will be functional more often.
Brick, stucco and stone are the most popular materials for traditional-style exteriors. The majority of older homes are made entirely from brick. However, newer houses may only use brick for the exterior and framing. However, architects and homeowners can choose any siding and any colour.
Traditional-style homes come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be small starter homes or large mansions with ample footprints.
These are the most important features of a traditional-style house.
Exterior:
- Influenced by historical architecture, there are many design elements that have a different look.
- Clean, simple rooflines
- Be gentle with your eaves.
- Minimum one front-facing gable
- Symmetrically spaced windows
- Exteriors in stone, stucco or brick
Interior:
- Practical layouts
- Foyer or Entryway
- Living and dining spaces that are elegant
- Separate laundry area
- Basement
The floor plans in traditional homes are usually simple but flexible. You will often find four bedrooms and a large living room. Traditional-style homes are functional in their design. Modern designs adapt to 21st-century needs while still retaining 18th-century charms. Although open floor plans are more popular, traditional living spaces such as dining and living rooms are still well-defined.
Traditional-style homes often have a foyer or entrance. Many homes have a separate laundry area. In older homes, the washer/dryer is usually located in the basement. However, in modern versions, they can be found close to the kitchen or bathroom where there are water pipes. Most modern homes in traditional design will have an attached garage.
