Finding your architectural style

How would you articulate your design style? It sounds like a simple enough task, but it can be tricky to communicate your style in terms that builders or architects understand. Learning about the various architectural styles and what you like can streamline conversations and help ensure that everyone sees your vision.

Contemporary, farmhouse, or craftsman—we can help you find your style.

Help! How do I find my design style?

Home design style inspiration is everywhere. Creating a Pinterest board to save pictures of what you like is a great place to start. If you're building a new home with a partner, ask them to set up a board. You can compare your results and discuss how you might blend your ideas for a style you're both happy with. 

• Publications like Architectural Digest and websites that sell home plans can provide ideas and help you identify your style.
• Examine your surroundings. If your current décor has design elements you love, consider how it ties into an architectural style for a consistent look inside and out.
• Think about where you're moving to. Are there natural features of the landscape or any historic design features of the neighborhood to consider?
• Don't be afraid to take inspiration from different home styles when explaining your vision to builders. For example, if you like aspects of mid-century modern and craftsmen, be sure to call it out.

Examples of popular home styles

There are many architectural styles, and their popularity can vary based on region, but to get you started, we've picked out 7 of the most popular styles to inspire you.

1. Modern Farmhouse

Modern Farmhouse homes typically have symmetrical and simple rooflines with steep pitches. They feature clean and simple exteriors with modern finishes, such as metal roofs and black window frames.

2. Craftsman

Craftsman homes are known for wide front porches with tapered columns or pedestals and low-pitched gable roofs. This home style features natural materials like wood and stone.

3. Mid-century Modern

Mid-century Modern homes often feature flat or low-sloping roofs, large windows, and sliding glass doors to connect the indoors with the outdoors. These homes are known for their innovative use of materials like concrete, steel, and glass.

4. Contemporary

Contemporary homes have a clean and minimalist design, focusing on simple lines and a lack of ornamentation. They often feature asymmetrical facades and geometric shapes and often have large windows and open floor plans, allowing natural light to flow through the home.

5. Colonial

Colonial homes are typically two-story rectangular homes. They feature a side-gabled roof with symmetrical window placement, including windows on either side of a centered front entrance.

6. Traditional

Traditional homes mix classic elements from other architectural styles with elements from modern home design. These are typically two-story homes with symmetrical windows and simple roof lines with understated eaves and gables.

7. Ranch

Ranch homes are usually one-story with a low-pitched roof, creating a horizontal and unobtrusive profile. They have rectangular, "U" or "L" shaped floor plans with patio or deck space connected to the home.

*Pro tip: If you are looking to build in a community, some of the exterior decisions will be influenced by the builder as well as the nearby lots. Builders will space out models, colors, and elevations to make sure the neighborhood doesn't have a "cookie-cutter" feel.