Discover Your Home Style: 12 Popular Types of Houses

How to Identify Your Home’s Style

To figure out your home’s architectural style, look at:

• Form: Is it single or multi-story? Symmetrical or asymmetrical?

• Details: Note trim, columns, windows, and doors.

• Materials: Identify wood, brick, stucco, or other finishes.

Tips:

• Examine rooflines and shapes.

• Look for period-specific details like shutters, chimneys, or columns.

• Research local archives or consult a builder or architect if unsure.

12 Popular House Styles (and How to Spot Them)

1. Colonial
   Symmetrical, brick or wood exterior, central chimney, multi-pane windows.

2. Cape Cod
   Compact, steep roof, dormers, simple design—great for snowy climates.

3. Ranch
   Single-story, open floor plan, large windows, attached garage.

4. Craftsman
   Low-pitched roof, exposed rafters, wide porch with square columns.

5. Tudor
   Steep roofs, half-timbering, tall narrow windows—suited to cooler climates.

6. Mediterranean
   Red tile roof, stucco walls, arches, balconies—ideal for warm weather.

7. Modern
   Flat roofs, open interiors, lots of glass, industrial materials.

8. Victorian
   Asymmetrical, decorative trim, towers or turrets, vibrant colors.

9. Farmhouse
   Functional layout, wood siding, big porches—classic and modern versions.

10. Prairie
    Low, horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, windows in horizontal bands.

11. Contemporary
    Eco-conscious design, large windows, seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

12. Townhouse
    Narrow, multi-story, attached units—common in urban areas.

Key Features That Define a Style

• Roof Types: Gable, hipped, flat, etc.

• Windows/Doors: Bay, dormers, multi-pane sashes.

• Materials: Brick, wood, stucco, stone.

• Layout & Details: Porches, symmetry, chimney style.

How Climate Shapes Design

• Snowy regions favor steep roofs (Cape Cod, Tudor).

• Hot climates suit stucco and tile (Mediterranean).

• Windy areas use low profiles and wide eaves (Prairie).

Conclusion

Knowing your home’s style helps with remodeling, buying, or restoring with intention. It also connects you to your home's history.

Need help?
All Squared Away Construction, LLC can modernize or restore your home while preserving its architectural charm.