What determines the style of a house and the architecture? Do you know the style of your home? Some of you will likely answer by saying your home is traditional. However, if you are asked what characteristics are associated with traditional design, your answer will differ from the next person in all likelihood. The reason answers will vary is that we all have our own vision and idea of “Traditional”. Webster’s Dictionary defines the word as handed down by, or conforming to tradition. In reality, traditional in architectural terms isn’t a style at all. It really describes a mix of classic elements pulled from established architectural style that are combined with modern elements of home design. Registered Architects and Building designers use this term, in general, to market their house plans and design services. This is understandable given the fact that the general public is quite familiar with the term.
Recognizing what determines the style of a house design
Houses in America come in all sorts of form and styles. This is due in part to our diverse population and distinct regional differences. There are many homes that can be put into a category of one or more house plan styles. General speaking, architectural styles can be distinguished when design features are prevalent. This is commonly referred to as “period style homes” in the home design field. This is due to the different characteristics and the correlation with history.
There are many different house styles in existence across this country. However, only a few are indigenous American home styles. Arguably the most known style was created and pushed by a generation of Architects in Chicago known as the Prairie School. This style is known as Prairie architecture and Frank Lloyd Wright may be the best know architect in this group. The American foursquare, Colonial, and the American craftsman also have origins in the United States. There are indeed many other design styles, but are too many to mention. A hand full of appreciated styles include Greek Revival architecture, Mediterranean, Tudor, French, Italianate home style, and Gothic Revival.
When you search for home designs of a particular style choose accordingly. Seek out Home Designers or Architects who have knowledge of the design style you want. They don’t have to specialize in the specific style you want. You should be okay as long as their work and knowledge exhibits an understanding as it relates to the style of a house. Based on the standard of your desired architectural style, Building Designers can replicate the look of period homes like the Dunleith plantation in Natchez, Mississippi, or create perfect house plans to reflects your personality and lifestyle needs.
Last Updated on July 12, 2023