The Popular Architectural Styles for Custom Homes

Custom homes are a great opportunity to create a living space where you have full control over every aspect of it, including the architectural style. In today’s post, the custom home builders at J. Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build take a look at the most popular architectural styles for custom homes.

Traditional Architectural Styles

Traditional architectural styles are generally based on home styles in use during the 17th to the 19th centuries. Some of the most common traditional styles include:

• Colonial. Colonial-style homes are a group of styles that are most prevalent during the colonial era, and are characterized by symmetrical facades, multi-paned windows and grand entrances leading to columned porch areas.
• Tudor. Tudor-style homes typically have steeply-pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering and brick or stucco exteriors. The interiors often feature exposed wooden beams and stone fireplaces and intricate details.
• Mediterranean. Mediterranean-style homes are inspired by Spanish, Italian and Greek architecture. Common design elements include stucco exteriors, red tile roofs and arched windows and doorways.
• Craftsman. Craftsman-style homes became popular during the turn of the 20th century, and are known for their low-pitched roofs with wide eaves, exposed rafters and front porches with tapered columns. This architectural style emphasizes a handcrafted look, as opposed to the industrial look that was becoming prevalent at the time.

Modern Architectural Styles

Design build firms like us are often asked about the differences between modern and contemporary architecture. The answer is that contemporary architecture is not rooted in a particular era — rather, it represents the “now”. The traditional styles cited above would have been called contemporary during their time.

Modern architecture, on the other hand, is a group of styles that became dominant during the mid-20th century. Materials such as concrete, iron and plate glass were flaunted instead of concealed. Modern architecture is associated with stark lines and rectangular forms, but they also emphasize the use of natural materials and sunlight. The following are some styles that you may already know:

• Mid-century modern. Also known as “atomic age” design, mid-century modern homes are influenced by home styles from the 1950s. Characteristics include low-pitched roofs, asymmetrical layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows. 
• Industrial. Industrial-style homes blend elements like exposed pipes and painted brick walls. While typically seen in apartments, the industrial look is a popular choice for commercial and residential buildings alike.
• Minimalist. As the name implies, the minimalist style is all about pared-down simplicity. It features a clean aesthetic focused on texture and form instead of color or pattern.

Learn more about the possibilities of building a custom home and working with a company that offers build on your lot services, like J. Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build. Call us today at (512) 930-1686, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve Georgetown, TX, and the surrounding communities in Texas.