Trying to choose from the many available exterior house styles can cause confusion and frustration. Lets make it a more manageable task.
Editor’s Note: This exterior house styles guide was published today to help homeowners and homebuyers understand their options thoroughly.
Weve done the research, digging into the details of each style. Now, we put together this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision about your homes exterior.
Keep reading to learn about the key differences between the most popular exterior house styles.
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Exterior House Styles
The exterior of your home is the first thing that people see, so it’s important to choose a style that reflects your personality and taste. Exterior house styles can have an impact on the value of your home and how much you enjoy living in it.
- Architectural Style: The overall design of your home, including the roofline, windows, and doors.
- Color: The color of your home’s exterior can affect its curb appeal and how it complements the surrounding landscape.
- Materials: The materials used to build your home’s exterior, such as brick, stone, or siding, can impact its durability and maintenance requirements.
- Landscaping: The landscaping around your home can enhance its exterior style and create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Lighting: The lighting around your home can highlight its architectural features and create a safe and inviting space.
- Fencing: The fencing around your home can provide privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal.
- Walkways and Patios: The walkways and patios around your home can create a functional and stylish outdoor space.
- Roofing: The roofing of your home can impact its overall style and protect it from the elements.
- Windows and Doors: The windows and doors of your home can provide natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors.
- Hardware: The hardware on your home’s exterior, such as doorknobs and hinges, can add a touch of style and personality.
When choosing an exterior house style, it’s important to consider your personal preferences, the climate you live in, and the surrounding neighborhood. By carefully considering all of these factors, you can choose a style that will make your home a beautiful and welcoming place to live.
Architectural Style
Architectural style is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an exterior house style. The overall design of your home, including the roofline, windows, and doors, can have a major impact on its curb appeal and overall value.
For example, a home with a steeply pitched roof and large windows will have a very different look and feel than a home with a flat roof and small windows. The materials used to construct your home’s exterior will also affect its architectural style. For example, a home built with brick or stone will have a more traditional look than a home built with siding.
When choosing an architectural style for your home, it is important to consider the climate you live in. For example, a home with a large roof overhang can help to protect it from the sun and rain. It is also important to consider the surrounding neighborhood when choosing an architectural style. For example, a home that is built in a traditional style may not look as good in a neighborhood that is full of modern homes.
By carefully considering all of these factors, you can choose an architectural style that will make your home a beautiful and welcoming place to live.
Key Insights
- Architectural style is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an exterior house style.
- The overall design of your home, including the roofline, windows, and doors, can have a major impact on its curb appeal and overall value.
- It is important to consider the climate you live in and the surrounding neighborhood when choosing an architectural style.
Color
Color is one of the most important elements of exterior house styles. The color of your home can affect its curb appeal, how it complements the surrounding landscape, and even your mood. When choosing a color for your home’s exterior, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Climate: The climate you live in will affect how your home’s exterior color looks and how well it holds up over time. For example, a light color will reflect the sun’s heat and help to keep your home cool in a warm climate. A dark color will absorb the sun’s heat and help to keep your home warm in a cold climate.
- Architectural style: The architectural style of your home will also affect the color you choose for its exterior. For example, a traditional home may look best with a neutral color, such as white or beige. A modern home may look best with a bolder color, such as black or red.
- Surrounding landscape: The surrounding landscape can also affect the color you choose for your home’s exterior. For example, a home that is surrounded by trees may look best with a green or brown color. A home that is surrounded by a desert may look best with a white or beige color.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose a color for your home’s exterior that will make it look its best and complement the surrounding landscape.
Materials
The materials you choose for your home’s exterior will have a significant impact on its durability and maintenance requirements. Some materials, such as brick and stone, are very durable and require little maintenance. Other materials, such as wood and vinyl siding, are less durable and require more maintenance.
- Durability: The durability of a material refers to its ability to withstand the elements and other factors that can cause damage. Durable materials, such as brick and stone, are less likely to be damaged by wind, rain, snow, and hail. Less durable materials, such as wood and vinyl siding, are more likely to be damaged by these elements.
- Maintenance: The maintenance requirements of a material refer to the amount of care and upkeep it needs to stay in good condition. Low-maintenance materials, such as brick and stone, require very little care. High-maintenance materials, such as wood and vinyl siding, require more care, such as painting, staining, or sealing.
- Cost: The cost of a material is another important factor to consider. Some materials, such as brick and stone, are more expensive than others, such as wood and vinyl siding. The cost of the material will also affect the overall cost of your home.
- Aesthetics: The aesthetics of a material refer to its appearance. Some materials, such as brick and stone, have a classic look that is timeless. Other materials, such as wood and vinyl siding, have a more modern look that may appeal to some homeowners.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the right materials for your home’s exterior that will meet your needs and budget.
Landscaping
Landscaping is an important part of any exterior house style. It can enhance the curb appeal of your home, create a welcoming atmosphere, and even increase its value. When choosing plants for your landscape, it is important to consider the architectural style of your home, the climate you live in, and the amount of maintenance you are willing to do.
For example, a home with a traditional architectural style may look best with a formal landscape design. A home with a modern architectural style may look best with a more contemporary landscape design. A home in a warm climate may require drought-tolerant plants, while a home in a cold climate may require plants that can withstand freezing temperatures.
Once you have chosen the right plants for your landscape, it is important to arrange them in a way that is both visually appealing and functional. You may want to create a focal point in your landscape, such as a water feature or a sculpture. You may also want to create different zones in your landscape, such as a seating area or a play area.
By carefully planning your landscape, you can create a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space that will complement your home’s exterior style and increase its value.
Key Insights
- Landscaping is an important part of any exterior house style.
- The right landscaping can enhance the curb appeal of your home, create a welcoming atmosphere, and even increase its value.
- When choosing plants for your landscape, it is important to consider the architectural style of your home, the climate you live in, and the amount of maintenance you are willing to do.
Lighting
Lighting is an important part of any exterior house style. It can highlight the architectural features of your home, create a safe and inviting space, and even increase its value. When choosing lighting for your home’s exterior, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Architectural style: The architectural style of your home will affect the type of lighting you choose. For example, a traditional home may look best with traditional lighting fixtures, such as lanterns or sconces. A modern home may look best with more contemporary lighting fixtures, such as recessed lighting or LED strips.
- Safety: Lighting can also be used to improve the safety of your home. For example, a well-lit walkway can help to prevent falls, and a motion-activated light can deter intruders.
- Ambiance: Lighting can also be used to create a certain ambiance around your home. For example, warm lighting can create a more inviting atmosphere, while cool lighting can create a more dramatic atmosphere.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the right lighting for your home’s exterior that will meet your needs and enhance its style.
Key Insights
- Lighting plays an important role in enhancing the exterior style of your home.
- The type of lighting you choose should complement the architectural style of your home.
- Lighting can be used to improve safety and create a desired ambiance.
Fencing
Fencing is an important part of any exterior house style. It can provide privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. When choosing fencing for your home, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Privacy: Fencing can provide privacy from neighbors and passersby. This is especially important for homes that are located on busy streets or in densely populated areas.
- Security: Fencing can also help to improve the security of your home. A well-constructed fence can deter intruders and make it more difficult for them to access your property.
- Aesthetic appeal: Fencing can also be used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. A well-chosen fence can complement the architectural style of your home and add to its overall curb appeal.
There are many different types of fencing available, so it is important to choose one that meets your needs and budget. Some popular types of fencing include:
- Wood: Wood fencing is a classic choice that is both durable and attractive. Wood fences are available in a variety of styles, so you can find one that matches the architectural style of your home.
- Vinyl: Vinyl fencing is a low-maintenance option that is available in a variety of colors and styles. Vinyl fences are also very durable and can withstand the elements.
- Chain link: Chain link fencing is a budget-friendly option that is also very durable. Chain link fences are often used for security purposes, but they can also be used to add a decorative touch to your home.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the right fencing for your home that will meet your needs and enhance its exterior style.
Key Insights
- Fencing is an important part of any exterior house style.
- Fencing can provide privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal.
- There are many different types of fencing available, so it is important to choose one that meets your needs and budget.
Walkways and Patios
Walkways and patios are important elements of any exterior house style. They can create a functional and stylish outdoor space that enhances the curb appeal of your home and provides a place to relax and entertain guests. When designing your walkways and patios, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Architectural style: The architectural style of your home will affect the design of your walkways and patios. For example, a traditional home may look best with a formal walkway and patio design, while a modern home may look best with a more contemporary design.
- Functionality: Your walkways and patios should be functional as well as stylish. Make sure that your walkways are wide enough to accommodate foot traffic and that your patios are large enough to accommodate your furniture and guests.
- Materials: The materials you choose for your walkways and patios will affect their durability and maintenance requirements. Some popular materials for walkways and patios include concrete, brick, stone, and pavers.
- Landscaping: The landscaping around your walkways and patios can enhance their beauty and functionality. Consider planting trees and shrubs around your walkways to provide shade and privacy, and add flowers and other plants to your patios to add color and interest.
By considering all of these factors, you can design walkways and patios that will complement your home’s exterior style and create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.
Roofing
The roofing of your home is an important part of its exterior style. It can impact the overall look and feel of your home, and it can also play a role in protecting your home from the elements. When choosing a roofing material, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Architectural style: The architectural style of your home will affect the type of roofing material you choose. For example, a traditional home may look best with a classic roofing material such as asphalt shingles or slate tiles. A modern home may look best with a more contemporary roofing material such as metal panels or solar tiles.
- Climate: The climate you live in will also affect the type of roofing material you choose. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of rain, you will need a roofing material that is waterproof and can withstand high winds. If you live in an area with a lot of snow, you will need a roofing material that is able to withstand the weight of snow and ice.
- Durability: The durability of the roofing material is also an important consideration. You will want to choose a roofing material that is able to withstand the elements and last for many years. Some roofing materials, such as metal and slate, are more durable than others, such as asphalt shingles.
- Cost: The cost of the roofing material is also an important consideration. Roofing materials can range in price from a few dollars per square foot to over $100 per square foot. It is important to factor in the cost of installation when budgeting for a new roof.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose a roofing material that will meet your needs and complement the exterior style of your home.
Key Insights
- The roofing of your home is an important part of its exterior style.
- The type of roofing material you choose should be based on the architectural style of your home, the climate you live in, the durability you need, and the cost.
- A well-chosen roofing material can enhance the beauty of your home and protect it from the elements for many years to come.
Windows and Doors
The windows and doors of your home are important elements of your exterior house style. They can provide natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors, all of which can have a significant impact on the look and feel of your home.
For example, a home with large windows and doors will be much brighter and more inviting than a home with small windows and doors. Natural light can help to improve your mood and productivity, and it can also make your home feel more spacious.
Ventilation is also important for a healthy home. Windows and doors can help to circulate air and prevent your home from becoming stuffy and uncomfortable. Fresh air can help to improve your health and well-being, and it can also help to reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Finally, windows and doors provide access to the outdoors. This can be important for both practical and recreational purposes. For example, you may need to access your backyard to mow the lawn or garden, or you may simply want to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
When choosing windows and doors for your home, it is important to consider the architectural style of your home, the climate you live in, and your personal needs and preferences. By carefully considering all of these factors, you can choose windows and doors that will complement your home’s exterior style and provide you with the natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors that you need.
Key Insights
- Windows and doors are important elements of your exterior house style.
- Windows and doors can provide natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors.
- When choosing windows and doors for your home, it is important to consider the architectural style of your home, the climate you live in, and your personal needs and preferences.
Hardware
The hardware on your home’s exterior, such as doorknobs and hinges, may seem like small details, but they can actually have a big impact on the overall style of your home. The right hardware can complement your home’s architectural style and add a touch of personality. For example, a traditional home may look best with classic brass hardware, while a modern home may look best with sleek stainless steel hardware.
In addition to style, the hardware on your home’s exterior can also play a role in security and functionality. For example, a sturdy deadbolt lock can help to keep your home safe and secure, while a self-closing hinge can help to prevent your door from slamming shut in the wind.
When choosing hardware for your home’s exterior, it is important to consider the following factors:
Architectural style: The architectural style of your home will affect the type of hardware you choose. For example, a traditional home may look best with classic hardware, while a modern home may look best with contemporary hardware. Functionality: The hardware you choose should be functional as well as stylish. Make sure that your hardware is durable and easy to use. Security: The hardware on your home’s exterior can also play a role in security. Choose hardware that is sturdy and secure, such as a deadbolt lock and self-closing hinges. Cost: The cost of hardware can vary depending on the material, finish, and style. It is important to factor in the cost of installation when budgeting for new hardware.By considering all of these factors, you can choose hardware for your home’s exterior that will complement the style of your home, meet your functional needs, and provide the security you need.
Key Insights
- The hardware on your home’s exterior can have a big impact on the overall style of your home.
- The right hardware can complement your home’s architectural style and add a touch of personality.
- In addition to style, the hardware on your home’s exterior can also play a role in security and functionality.
- When choosing hardware for your home’s exterior, it is important to consider the architectural style of your home, the functionality you need, the security you want, and the cost.
FAQs on Exterior House Styles
This section addresses frequently asked questions about exterior house styles, providing valuable insights and dispelling common misconceptions.
Question 1: What factors should be considered when choosing an exterior house style?
Answer: Selecting an exterior house style involves considering architectural design, color, materials, landscaping, lighting, fencing, walkways and patios, roofing, windows and doors, and hardware. Each element contributes to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the home’s exterior.
Question 2: How does the architectural style of a home influence its exterior design?
Answer: Architectural style defines the overall design of a home, including its roofline, windows, and doors. It significantly impacts the home’s exterior appearance and complements the surrounding architectural context.
Question 3: What is the significance of color in exterior house design?
Answer: Color plays a crucial role in enhancing curb appeal, complementing the surrounding landscape, and affecting the home’s overall mood and ambiance. Factors to consider when selecting exterior colors include climate, architectural style, and personal preferences.
Question 4: How do different materials impact the durability and maintenance requirements of a home’s exterior?
Answer: Materials used in exterior construction, such as brick, stone, or siding, vary in their durability and maintenance needs. Durable materials like brick withstand elements effectively, while less durable options like wood require more frequent maintenance, such as painting or sealing.
Question 5: What role does landscaping play in enhancing a home’s exterior style?
Answer: Landscaping complements a home’s exterior style by creating a visually appealing and welcoming atmosphere. It can enhance curb appeal, provide privacy, and increase property value. Careful plant selection and arrangement are essential for a cohesive and functional landscape design.
Question 6: How can lighting be used to highlight architectural features and create a safe and inviting exterior?
Answer: Lighting plays a vital role in highlighting architectural features, improving safety, and creating a desired ambiance. Well-placed lighting fixtures can accentuate design elements, illuminate walkways to prevent falls, and deter intruders.
Summary: Understanding the key considerations and factors influencing exterior house styles empowers homeowners to make informed decisions that enhance the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and overall value of their properties.
Transition: Explore additional insights and tips related to exterior house styles in the sections below.
Exterior House Styles
Enhancing your home’s exterior style involves careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some valuable tips to guide you in creating a visually appealing and inviting outdoor space:
Tip 1: Define Your Architectural Style: Identify the architectural style of your home, as it serves as the foundation for selecting complementary exterior elements. Traditional homes harmonize with classic materials like brick and stone, while modern homes embrace sleek lines and contemporary finishes.
Tip 2: Consider Climate and Surroundings: The climate and surrounding environment significantly impact material selection and color choices. Opt for durable materials that can withstand local weather conditions, and choose colors that complement the natural landscape.
Tip 3: Maximize Natural Light and Ventilation: Large windows and doors not only enhance curb appeal but also allow ample natural light to enter your home. This creates a brighter and more inviting interior while reducing energy consumption.
Tip 4: Create a Welcoming Entryway: The entryway sets the tone for your home’s exterior. Ensure it is well-lit, accessible, and visually appealing. A charming porch or a decorative pathway can add character and functionality.
Tip 5: Enhance with Landscaping and Lighting: Landscaping and lighting can transform your home’s exterior. Strategically placed plants and trees add color and texture, while well-designed lighting highlights architectural features and creates a warm and inviting ambiance.
Tip 6: Maintain and Update Regularly: Regular maintenance is crucial to preserving your home’s exterior. Inspect and clean surfaces, touch up paint, and make necessary repairs promptly. Stay updated on design trends to ensure your home’s style remains current and attractive.
Summary: By incorporating these tips, you can enhance your home’s exterior style, increase its curb appeal, and create a welcoming and inviting outdoor space that complements your lifestyle and architectural preferences.
Exterior House Styles
This comprehensive guide has explored the multifaceted world of exterior house styles, delving into the key elements that define and enhance the aesthetic appeal of homes. From architectural design and material selection to landscaping and lighting, each aspect plays a vital role in creating a cohesive and visually stunning exterior.
Choosing the right exterior style for your home involves careful consideration of your architectural preferences, climate, and personal taste. By understanding the key factors that influence exterior design, you can make informed decisions that will not only beautify your home but also increase its value and functionality. Remember, your home’s exterior is a reflection of your style and personality, so embrace the opportunity to create a space that truly represents you and your aspirations.
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