Original Dutch colonial architecture is rare in this country today. Moreover, surviving examples are concentrated in the northeast part of America (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania). Dutch immigrants migrated there in the 1700’s and brought with them there building traditions. One story designs were more common in the rural areas while one and one-half stories and two stories, while rare, were common in urban areas. Brick material was used to construct this sub-type colonial style. Settlers used masonry material as a common material on this style of architecture

The most defining feature of Dutch colonial architecture

There is one main distinction that sets the dutch colonial architecture apart from the other colonial styles. That would be the unusual roof which is called a Gambrel roof. This roof became common as a means of increasing the roof span. In addition, it also made use of unused attic space. In other words, the bi-product of the roof design was cheap livable space. The homeowner was able to use the main floor for business operations. As a result of the roof design, The family used the upper floors as their living quarters. This was quite normal in the urban tradition of Dutch colonials. This setup made it a dual purpose building.

Common features of dutch colonial architecture include the Gambrel roof. Architects designed the roof sturcture with little or no rake overhang. Other features include a parapet roof with paired end chimneys, flaring eaves, and dormers. Builders constructed the dormers to have either a shed, gable, or radius type roof.