Do you know the design style of your home? Certain home styles were popular in certain decades, such as the contemporary style during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s; ranch homes during the 1930s; and the “arts and crafts” style that was popular in the early 1900s. Some styles have distinct features, such as French and Mediterranean homes, while others may not belong to a specific or classic style. Here are six of the most popular home styles and decor ideas that suit them.
#1: Cape Cod Homes
Cape Cod homes, named for the peninsula in Massachusetts, were very popular in the 1930s, and they are still being built today. Characteristics of this style include multi-pane windows and steep, wood-shingled roofs. Traditionally, these homes were only one story, but today you can find many two-story Cape Cod homes. The modern interior design style works well with Cape Cod homes. This design style features simple color schemes, such as complementary colors (e.g., black and white, orange and blue), which works well with the natural lighting that comes through the multi-pane windows.
#2: Colonial-Style Homes
Although Colonial homes can be traced back to the late 19th century, odds are that this is the style of your home if you aren’t sure what your style is. This is one of the most popular styles in the United States, featuring exterior similar to Cape Cod, but many are often built as two-story homes. The contemporary design style, not to be confused with modern, works well with Colonial homes. This is a very minimalist style, and is highlighted if you have an open-concept home. The color palette tends to lean more towards neutral colors whereas the modern style uses more bright, yet simple colors.
#3: Cottage-Style Homes
Cottage homes were very popular in Europe, and they became popular in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s. These homes are noted by their steep, usually wooden roofs; arched doors; brick, stucco, or stone siding; and small window panes. You can also find metal roofing on Cottage homes, giving them a more industrial look; while a little less typical, the advantages of converting to a metal roof make even cottagecore devotees consult metal roofing contractors.
Because these homes are often associated with comfort, the Hygge design style fits perfectly with these types of homes. This style emphasizes comfort and coziness, all while keeping a minimalist vibe.
#4: Mediterranean-Style Homes
The Mediterranean style is one of the most recognizable home designs. Also known as Spanish Colonial or Spanish Farmhouse, this style features an adobe exterior, a U-shaped floor plan, and a low-pitched, red tile clay or concrete roof. The contemporary design style also works well with Mediterranean homes because these types of homes tend to be open-concept, allowing a lot of natural light to come in and flow through the home. A lot of the time, the floor plan features a fountain and/or courtyard, blending the outdoors with the indoors.
#5: Tudor-Style Homes
Although the Tudor style was popular in 16th Century Europe, the Tudor homes we see today have more of a medieval influence. You can spot a Tudor home by its steep roof, narrow doors, and narrow windows with small panes. The Farmhouse decor style is one that really complements the Tudor style. This style places emphasis on minimalist decor, mismatched furniture, wood floors, and an overall rustic look. Functionality and emphasis on a natural look are central to the Farmhouse style.
#6: Victorian-Style Homes
Victorian-style homes are all about elegance and class. Though not exactly the same as homes from the 19th Century Victorian Era, today’s Victorian homes are still pretty similar to the original style, keeping with the romantic and highly detailed design. Both modern and contemporary design styles work well with Victorian homes, though it isn’t necessary to be as minimalist with these styles.
While elegant design styles work with Victorian homes and rustic styles work best with rustic-type homes, you can make any design style work with any type of home. You can also choose to blend more than one style.