Classic American homes come in all shapes and sizes, but no matter where you live you can identify them by the classic features they share—the American Foursquare, the Prairie Style home, or the bungalow, to name just a few of the most popular design types. Each of these has its own style, of course, and each comes with its own history and story behind its development. But here’s the thing that most classic American homes have in common—they’re easy to spot once you know what to look for! Here’s how to identify your next classic American home by region.
The Southeast
If you’re in the Southeast, you’re likely to find classic American homes with a few common features. Look for homes with front porches,Columns, and steep roofs. Southeastern homes also tend to have clapboard or vinyl siding and be painted in light colors. You might also see hanging plants or rocking chairs on the porch, adding to the home’s Southern charm.
The Northeast
When you think of a classic American home in the Northeast, chances are you envision a Cape Cod. These charming homes are characterized by their steep roofs, central chimneys, and multi-paned windows. Cape Cods were originally designed for New England’s harsh winters, with thick walls and small windows to keep heat in. Today, they’re beloved for their cozy, cottage-like feel.
The Midwest
When you think of classic American homes, the first style that might come to mind is the Cape Cod. This popular home style originated in New England and is characterized by its steeply pitched roof, large central chimney, and symmetrical facade. Moving westward, you’ll find the Midwestern ranch home. This one-story dwelling became popular in the post-WWII era thanks to its affordability and simplicity. Ranch homes are often identified by their long, low profile and attached garage.
The Southwest
If you’re in the Southwest, you might be looking at a Pueblo Revival home. These homes are characterized by thick, stucco walls, low-pitched roofs, and lots of light coming in through small windows. Pueblo Revival homes are usually made of adobe, which is a mud-and-straw mixture that’s common in the Southwest. but no matter where you live you can identify them by the classic features they share—the American Foursquare, the Prairie Style home, or the bungalow, to name just a few of the most popular design types. Each of these has its own style, of course, and each comes with its own history and story behind its development. But here’s the thing that most classic American homes have in common—they’re easy to spot once you know what to look for!
The West Coast
There are several iconic home styles that originated on the West Coast, particularly in California. The Craftsman style is perhaps the most well-known, characterized by its low-pitched roofline, wide eaves, and exposed beams. Other popular styles include the Mission Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Monterey Colonial. These homes often feature stucco exteriors, tiled roofs, and arched doorways and windows.