Home Styles - How Well Do You Know House Architecture?

For building designers and architects, it comes as no surprise that many people would wrongly characterize home styles. Some if not most of you would give the "catch-all" term, traditional. If asked, what characteristics make up traditional architecture, the answers given may vary widely from others who have their own ideas of what is "Traditional". Webster's Dictionary defines the word as handed down by, or conforming to tradition. The fact is, traditional really isn't a style at all. Yet, there are many design professionals using this term for good reason to promote and market their goods and services. This is understandable given the fact that many in the general public are familiar with the term.

Because of our regional differences and diverse population, Residences in the U.S. are presented in many architectural styles and sizes. Most residential dwellings can be categorized in one or more design styles. Home styles can be quite distinguishable when aligned with known facts about design features. Those in the architectural field commonly call this "period styles" because of the distinguishable presentation and the parallel existence with history.

Of the many design styles spread across the United States, only a few are original to the country. Probably the most recognized one was made popular and developed by a group of Chicago Architects known as the Prairie School. Of this group of professionals who created Prairie architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright might be the most famous. Other native styles include American Craftsman, American Foursquare, Colonial, and more. In terms of other architecture styles, the list is too long to mention. With that being said, several widely liked styles include French architecture, Mediterranean, Tudor, Greek and Gothic Revival.

If you are currently looking for a home design with a certain style, look for a Residential Designer who is familiar with the specific home style you are looking for. They don't have to specialize in the specific one you want as long as their work and language verify some degree of understanding about the design style you are requesting. Based on the standards of your desired home style, a good Building Designer can replicate or create a design to meet your needs.