Various house designs

24 Popular Architectural House Styles

Lauren Thomann

Lauren Thomann is passionate about crafting and DIY home improvement, writing on both topics. While refurbishing her 1916 bungalow on her own, she shares lessons learned through her DIY and home improvement articles.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 05/16/22

Fact checked by

Emily Estep

Fact checked by Emily Estep

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

The Spruce / Sarah Crowley

Cities and suburbs across the United States are home to several different architectural house styles. Many old homes are still full of the character that reflects their particular style. But if you want to incorporate old house charm in a newer dwelling, you'll have to learn about some of the key characteristics that make each style stand apart.

Here are 24 popular house styles and what makes them so special.

01 of 24
oversnap / Getty Images
Cape Cod homes are extremely common in suburban communities. They became increasingly popular in the United States during the 1950s. The style was originally introduced by English settlers during the late 17th century and is named after the coast of Massachusetts. These homes tend to be a story and a half and include dormers and a central doorway. The original design was inspired by English half-timbered houses from centuries prior, but the frame was altered to suit the New England climate.
02 of 24
VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm / Getty Images
Victorian architecture refers to an era of design instead of one specific style. Victorian homes were built from the early 1800s through the early 1900s during the reign of Queen Victoria. Since the era is generally associated with a rising middle class and increasing wealth, these homes tend to be larger and more elaborate. Victorian architecture was influenced by several prolific architects and varying cityscapes. Today you'll find these homes dotted across communities in the United States.
03 of 24
Greg Pease / Getty Images
Colonial-style homes date back to the 17th century, and the homes come in many variations. Each style was influenced by early American settlers depending on their country of origin. The homes usually feature symmetry and some type of dormer. You'll commonly see examples of British or Georgian colonial-style homes, because a large portion of the U.S. was under British rule early on. You might also find these styles: federal colonial, Dutch colonial, French colonial, and Spanish colonial. They are especially popular on the East Coast but are common throughout the country.
04 of 24
Joe Schmelzer / Getty Images
The craftsman-style home came about in the early 20th century during the Arts and Crafts movement. These homes put a particular focus on materials and motifs that are inspired by nature. You’ll commonly find naturally toned woodwork, geometric stained glass, and several built-ins. The color palette of a craftsman-style home tends to be earthy in nature and includes shades such as forest green, rusty orange, and natural browns. Some of the common variations of the craftsman style include mission, bungalow, and Stickley. Craftsman homes are found across the country.
05 of 24
Walter Bibikow / Getty Images
This house style was first crafted by an innovative turn-of-the-century architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Prairie-style homes are inspired by their relationship to nature. And they feature lots of handcrafted details, such as simple woodwork, stained glass, and built-in furniture. This style of home was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, but it is distinct from Craftsman-style homes. Only a handful of original homes exist, with many being in the Midwest. But the style is still an iconic example of architecture that originated in America.
06 of 24
YinYang / Getty Images
Ranch homes are single-story or split-level houses that started popping up across the United States during the first half of the 20th century. In the 1930s, people built these homes that were inspired by Spanish colonials in the Southwest. Later examples of ranch homes can sometimes be confused with midcentury modern homes, because they share some characteristics, such as their streamlined appearance. In general, ranch-style homes have open floor plans and connect to the outside.
07 of 24
peterspiro / Getty Images
Tudor-style homes are easily recognizable thanks to their timber details against a light-colored stucco. They also tend to have ornate brick detailing. The Tudor style came from historical homes in England. This home style became popular during the early 20th century in wealthy suburban communities across the United States. Many Tudor homes can be found in northern climates, because the solid architecture is ideal for cold weather.
08 of 24
ntzolov / Getty Images
This popular American home style was influenced by homes in the Mediterranean. It became popular in the warmer parts of the United States during the early 1900s. Mediterranean-style homes often feature warm tones, stucco exteriors, and beautiful ornamental details incorporated into the tile and woodwork. The homes are made to be open and airy with stone, wood beams, and other natural details.
09 of 24
constantgardener / Getty Images
It’s easy to confuse modern homes with contemporary ones, but the best way to tell the difference is to look at when the home was built. Modern-style homes were generally built between the 1930s and the 1970s in the United States, with midcentury modern being a subcategory of this style. In contrast, contemporary homes weren’t built until decades later. Modern homes are generally minimal in style and have clean, sharp lines. There aren't many ornamental details. These homes are found across the country with a lot being on the West Coast.
10 of 24
Mint Images / Getty Images
Contemporary architecture essentially refers to the building styles that are trendy in present day. Contemporary homes can vary greatly, but they generally tend to fuse the interior design with the exterior design so that there is a sense of flow. While the style is typically clean and minimal, edges can still be soft and rounded. Contemporary-style homes are found across the country, especially in new builds (though a new build doesn't necessarily have to be contemporary).
11 of 24
Jon Lovette / Getty Images
A farmhouse-style house is a modern interpretation of the rural family farm homes that were situated on lots of acreage. Old farmhouses were erected across the United States starting in the 1700s and 1800s. They came in various design styles, including Victorian and colonial. But the most common farmhouse was a simple rectangular structure often with a long porch and a clapboard exterior. Modern farmhouses mimic that simple structure, though they have grown in size.
12 of 24
EyeWolf / Getty Images
Modest cottage-style homes originated in Europe in small towns and villages. And they now dot the United States, especially in quaint residential communities. Cottages are defined by their small size, and they are usually faced with stone or wood, though siding also has become common. They are typically one to one-and-a-half stories high and often have small porches. The interior is cozy and informal.
13 of 24
Mint Images / Getty Images
Small log cabins have been built for several hundred years with European settlers bringing the style to North America. This primitive style of building originally consisted of modest one-room homes in the wilderness. Nowadays, people build modern cabins as their primary residence in rural and even suburban settings for the aesthetic. The exterior still often is formed with logs, or it is at least clad in wood as a nod to the original style. And the shape is simple, usually with a fairly open interior.
14 of 24
kolderal / Getty Images
Rowhouses, also known as townhouses, are homes that are built directly next to one another with an adjoining wall. This type of house is common in major cities across the country, where the lot sizes are long and narrow. Often the same architect will build most, if not all, of the rowhouses on a block, giving them a uniform look. The design style can range depending on the architect's preferences. Rowhouses first popped up in the Netherlands and Belgium during the 16th century, and they spread across U.S. cities during the Industrial Revolution.
15 of 24
Thomas Kelley / Getty Images
Greek Revival architecture is inspired by buildings from ancient Greece. The style first arrived in Britain during the 1700s, but it didn't really gain steam until the 19th century in the United States. As a new democracy, Americans wanted to pay tribute to the birthplace of democracy through architecture, which is why many government buildings use the style. Home examples now can be found across the country. The style is defined by large columns, a symmetrical shape, and a white facade.
16 of 24

dancurko / Getty Images

French country homes draw inspiration from centuries-old homes in the French countryside. These homes featured more natural and lived-in elements than the ornate French architecture that dominated cities. Some key features of French country homes include natural stone facades, a sloping roof, two chimneys, and natural wood or stone flooring. Such homes can be found scattered in residential communities across the United States.
17 of 24

RiverNorthPhotography / Getty Images

Antebellum architecture, or Southern architecture, arose prior to the Civil War in the Southern United States. The design was meant to be both impressive and practical. For instance, the homes featured large windows and high ceilings, which both looked dramatic and allowed for better air circulation. And they had large, covered, wrap-around porches to enjoy the outdoors while being sheltered from the hot sun. Winding staircases and columns also were trademark features. This style is still most common in the South, and the modern versions still feature vaulted ceilings and large porches.
18 of 24

KenWiedemann / Getty Images

Saltbox houses first popped up in New England during the 1600s, and they’re still most common there to this day. They were simple structures that early settlers were able to build with the supplies they could get their hands on, namely local timber. Saltbox homes feature a slanted, asymmetrical roof and a large chimney. The front of the house is flat, and there are typically two stories in the front sloping down to just one in the back.
19 of 24

pidjoe / Getty Images

Art Deco style took off in Paris during the early 1920s, and it arrived in the U.S. soon after. Many U.S. skyscrapers and other buildings from coast to coast, including the Empire State Building, are in Art Deco style. Trademarks of this style include ornate and geometric details, bold colors, decorative windows and doors, and parapets and spires.
20 of 24
Queen Anne

Lime Wave / Getty Images

Queen Anne style is part of Victorian architecture and was popular during the late 1800s. It persisted in the United States into the 1920s, with most buildings in that style being seen in the eastern portion of the country. Queen Anne homes generally feature an asymmetrical facade with a front gable and overhanging eves. There is also typically a porch that stretches across the front of the home, potentially with a second-story balcony.
21 of 24

Dan Stiver / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

Italianate architecture also was of the Victorian era and was popular in the U.S. during much of the 19th century. It’s inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture from the 16th century. Most Italianate house styles are in the eastern U.S., but examples can be seen out west as well. Key characteristics of the style include a brick or wood clapboard facade, two to four stories, roofs with little to no pitch, and overhanging eves.
22 of 24
Eastlake

Konrad Summers / Wikimedia / CC BY-SA 2.0

Also part of the Victorian era, Eastlake style is quite similar to Queen Anne style. It too arose in the 19th century, and examples now can be found across the United States. The style takes its inspiration from British architect Charles Eastlake, who promoted furniture and decor that was more angular and notched than the curved designs of other French styles. Thus, Eastlake-style homes generally have posts and railings with intricate, angular shapes. Lattice work also is common. The homes are traditionally painted in earth tones with the trim in a lighter color to make it pop.
23 of 24
Romanesque Revival

jiawangkun / Getty Images

Romanesque Revival architecture developed during the 19th century in Britain and arrived in the United States in the 1840s. It draws inspiration from medieval European architecture, which featured thick stone walls, huge load-bearing columns, and large arches. Romanesque Revival buildings simplified some of those features but still retained their essence. The style uses prominent arches, round towers, and stone or brick construction. Romanesque Revival architecture is often seen in churches and buildings on college campuses across the United States.
24 of 24

Jeff the Quiet / Wikimedia / CC BY-SA 2.0

Originating in France and defined by pointed arches, Gothic architecture was popular in Europe from the 12th century all the way to the 16th century. Gothic Revival arose in the 19th century. Many buildings in the U.S., especially cathedrals, feature Gothic Revival style. It’s not common to see a home fully in the style, though residences will have aspects of it. Trademark elements of the style include the pointed arches, stained glass windows, and ornate features such as spires and gargoyles.

Different Types of Houses | Styles of Homes

What You’ll Learn

How to spot the most popular styles of homes

The top 3 pros and cons of living in each architectural style

Which type of home will suit your lifestyle

You’ve probably already got an idea of the types of homes you’re attracted to—after all, where you buy and the style of home you choose is an outward expression of who you are. You may have even pictured yourself living in some of these homes. But we’ve all seen enough memes to know that expectations don’t always match reality. Real estate descriptions don’t help much either: they tell you a little about the home, a little about the area, and stop there. The home that is your happily ever after will be a style that suits your lifestyle.

Here’s the inside scoop on what it's actually like to live in these 14 different styles of homes.

1. Ranch
2. Classical
3. Bungalow/Beach house
4. Modern/Contemporary
5. Cabin/Cottage
6. Farmhouse
7. Mediterranean/Spanish

8. Pueblo Revival/Southwestern/Adobe
9. Victorian
10. Art Deco
11. Greek Revival
12. Italianate
13. Townhouse
14. Country

1. Ranch

Ranch homes are single story, wide, and built of brick or wood with the garage front and (not quite) center. They often feature picture windows so you could see the family within keeping up with the Jones’. Car ownership was essential if you wanted to purchase a ranch home in the burgeoning suburbs—which is why these homes tend to feature such a prominent garage. By 1950, 9 out of 10 new homes were ranches and if people couldn’t afford vast, wide open spaces, they could definitely afford these wide low-slung homes.

Pros

Simpler to design and more efficient with everything on one level
Easier to heat and cool than multi-level homes
Well suited casual living

Cons

More expensive to add onto as you’ll also need to extend the foundation
Less privacy due to the large windows at the front of the house
You’ll need more land to comfortably build a ranch style home

Is this the home for you?
If you’ve got young kids or you’re an empty nester wanting to age in place, these single-level homes are a perfect fit. Ranch homes are all over the country at a wide range of price points: In Atlanta, GA you can buy one for the median price of $92 per square foot, which is $88 cheaper than the other styles in the area.

2. Classical

Classical homes are symmetrical buildings with 2 or 3 stories, a gable or hipped roof, and a front door under an entryway portico. They typically have either a central chimney or 2 or 4 chimneys on either side of the house, with two rooms on either side of the main hall. Classical homes were most popular from the 1700s through 1800s and are also known as Colonial, Federal, or Georgian style homes. In the South, you’ll likely find Classical homes made of brick. In the North they are commonly made with clapboards.

Pros

Durability—these homes have been around a long time: The older the house, the better the roof
You’ll live surrounded by beauty, understated grandeur and sheer elegance inside this home
High ceilings, large windows, ornamental doorways, and ceiling medallions add to their charm

Cons

Time consuming maintenance work is needed for the delicate hand-carved finishes in the home
Periodic staining or painting has to be done to keep wood clapboard homes looking their best
Repairs can get expensive when you need to hire specialized craftspeople

Is this the home for you?
If a grand central staircase from which you can make an equally grand entrance is your kind of thing, you’ll love this home. In 2013, their average asking price was $1,845,624, but you may find an unrestored Classic for less. If their compartmentalized rooms don't cramp your style, renovation costs may squeeze your wallet.

3. Bungalow/Beach house

These homes are traditionally narrow, rectangular, 1 to 1 ½ story homes with a wide porch, a gable or hipped roof, and a simple design made with natural materials. If bungalows had a t-shirt, it would say “New England beach house living since the 1870s.” By the 1880s, they’d taken off in California as a reaction to the stuffiness of Victorian homes with elaborate decoration. In 1895, Sears, Roebuck and Company started selling kit plans and building supplies for these beach houses, and bungalows began appearing all around the country.

Pros

They’ve stayed in architectural fashion for a very, very long time—which is great for resale value
Older bungalows come with charm and character that many people miss in a new construction
Their compact design is well suited to a warm, beachy climate

Cons

Security may not be as tight with all the windows (and bedrooms) easily accessible from the ground
Their smaller bedrooms may leave you eager to redesign your floor plan
Bungalows typically cost more per square foot than a 2-story home

Is this the home for you?
Bungalows are cute, practical, and economical, which makes them a great choice for young families and first-time homebuyers. Bungalows are easy to adapt to any taste or region, so you’ll be able to find them at a wide range of styles, sizes, and price points everywhere in America.

4. Modern/Contemporary

These homes are designed to incorporate the surrounding landscape into their overall look. Common features include large plate glass windows, asymmetrical forms, clean, smooth textures and lines, lots of natural light, and a variety of wall materials, including stone, brick, and wood. Although they’re often large in scale, Modern and Contemporary homes tend to be minimal, straightforward and efficient in their design. The motivations of Modern and Contemporary architects differ, but these styles both aim to connect the indoors and outdoors.

Pros

Space is used efficiently and complements the entire structure as a whole
These homes are designed with open plan living in mind
They’re built to be energy efficient

Cons

If the home is not oriented for solar gain, it’s spacious open plan homes can be costly to heat or cool
Their large windows can give neighbors and passers by a fantastic view inside your home
Cost: their eco-friendly credentials don’t come cheap

Is this the home for you?
If you like your homes smart, Modern/Contemporary homes will fit the bill. Their clean, airy, technologically advanced designs are great for entertaining and relaxed living. These homes are popular because they’re built for today’s way of living, but their limited supply can make them an expensive option.

5. Cabin/Cottage

Cabins and cottages have been around since the 1700s, but back in the day they were simply called houses. These compact homes were commonly built in states that were heavily populated by people unable to afford the grand, Classical homes of the era. Nowadays, small homes or small, old-fashioned homes that are typically built in either rural or semi-rural areas are called cabins or cottages. These types of homes are commonly made with stone or wood siding, a gravel or brick front walkway, and brighter exterior colors.

Pros

Unique and compact, these homes cost less to buy, less to heat/cool, and less to furnish/decorate
Improved quality of life: housekeeping tasks such as cleaning and gardening take much less time
Cottages make you feel good—they emanate warmth, comfort, and welcome

Cons

Unexpected maintenance issues caused by wildlife or extreme weather can be common in rural areas
Rural properties don’t appreciate as quickly as homes in urban areas and may take longer to sell
Smaller homes give you less space to work with

Is this the home for you?
Tiny home living may be a step too small for your lifestyle, but a cottage may give you many financial benefits, such as a lower mortgage, lower property taxes, lower insurance costs, more money left to spend. These small homes encourage togetherness, which is excellent if you want to spend more time with family.

6. Farmhouse

As the name suggests, a farmhouse is simply a house on a farm. Its architectural style may be influenced by the design trends of the era, but the execution is more driven by function than form. The common farmhouse feature of a porch, which stretches from the front of the home and around the sides of the building, is essentially an open air mudroom for farmers to remove their dirty boots. The roof is typically steeply pitched and occasionally decorated with gables and dormers. Horizontal siding and shutters complete the look.

Pros

Lower prices: your money may go so far that you’re able to enjoy acreage as well as a very nice home
Plenty of room to enjoy your hobbies and raise your kids in complete privacy
The option of raising your own animals

Cons

Since farmhouse roofs can be a combination of gable and hipped roofing, repairs can be costly
Utility challenges: You may have to deal with septic, propane, and well water
If the home hasn’t been well cared for, there may be a few structural challenges

Is this the home for you?
If you’re looking for space and informality, the relaxed sensibilities of a farmhouse may be just right. If you’re a social butterfly, you’ll soon learn that an active social life can take its toll on your gas tank. Farmhouses can be found anywhere there are farms, but finding one that’s easy to renovate may be a more challenging feat.

7. Mediterranean/Spanish

Stucco exteriors in white, salmon, peach or yellow, low-pitched red tile roofs, and scalloped windows and balconies with elaborate grill work are the hallmarks of this warm-weather style. Mediterrnean/Spanish Revival style homes are often oriented around a courtyard and have decorative tiles around their windows and doorways. The original style was derived from the early Spanish missions of the 1600s–1800s. From the 1920s, Mediterrnean/Spanish Revival style homes gained popularity in Florida, California, and the Southwest.

Pros

The original lime plaster walls, like modern stucco, help maintain a constant interior temperature
Adaptability: Some people prefer to make the courtyard a central living room or atrium
Designed for natural cooling, homes like this are both cool and breezy in summer

Cons

Flooring is often made of terracotta, granite, or marble tiles; extra care should be taken when cleaning
The design is so distinct, modern amenities like a basic garage door can stick out like a sore thumb
Spanish clay roof tiles will need to be specially treated if the home is in a cold, damp climate

Is this the home for you?
With their high ceilings, open floor plans, and easy outdoor access, Mediterrnean/Spanish Revival style homes are perfect for entertaining in hot weather. If this style is your vibe, look for homes listed as ‘Spanish’—they go for half the price of ‘Mediterranean’ homes. We can only assume it’s because Mediterranean is harder to spell.

8. Pueblo Revival/Southwestern/Adobe

The adobe (mudbrick) or earth-colored stucco walls with their rounded edges and projecting wood beams make Pueblo Revival homes easily recognizable. Heavy doors, massive wood components, flat roofs, porch posts and parapet walls complete this Southwestern look. Pueblo Revival homes are a uniquely homegrown architectural style: These chunky homes emerged as a nod to Native American cultures and as a stylish way to brave the searing heat of the Southwest. You’ll find them in New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

Pros

Their sheltered courtyards are great for relaxing and entertaining in all kinds of weather
This modern imitation of an ancient style of home caters well to modern lifestyles
Thick adobe walls provide natural insulation in scorchingly hot climates

Cons

Critters can sometimes burrow through adobe bricks and weaken the walls
True adobe homes are best in dry, temperate weather
Flat Pueblo-style roofs can be prone to leakage

Is this the home for you?

If you can take the heat, this style of home could be your key to an authentic Southwest experience. Even though these homes are constrained geographically, they still go for a broad range in prices. You can pick up a Pueblo-Revival home for a few hundred thousand or spend millions of dollars.

9. Victorian

Victorians are the quintessential gingerbread house made real. They were typically built on small plots of land, often in a row: If you wanted space, the only way was up. Common features of these multi-story homes include embellished millwork, towers, turrets, and dormers. Not forgetting their eclectic array of window styles, shapes, and sizes—yes, we’re looking at you bay windows! Although they can be found in brownstone on the East Coast, wooden Victorians in the west are often brightly painted in different colors.

Pros

Jaw dropping beauty all around you—think intricate wood trim, high ceilings, and ornate staircases
Thick walls make it less likely you’ll hear your neighbors
Historic districts can protect your home’s value

Cons

If the elaborate woodwork needs repair, you’ll need to hire expensive specialist woodworkers
Victorian homes were typically built on a thin foundation, which you may need to have redone
The structure and wiring of these homes may not meet modern standards

Is this the home for you?
In this case, love is not blind. If you’ve fallen for this style of home, and it’s within your budget, you may find owning a Victorian to be a rewarding labor of love. While these homes can be priced around $500,000 in some parts of the country, Victorians that are fully restored can go for much more.

10. Art Deco

Flat roofs, smooth stucco walls with rounded corners and bold exterior decorations, high-gloss finishes, glass brick, neon, chrome, mirrors, and opaque glass panels give Art Deco style homes their 1930s movie star glamor...Or their 80s pastel, Miami Vice, neon glamor. Wink. The style was influenced by Egyptian artwork and the Bauhaus school in Germany, and was considered ultramodern at the height of its popularity. Homes in this style are rare, but you’ll find Art Deco condos and office buildings in major cities around the US.

Pros

More often than not, you’ll find Art Deco homes close to transport, shopping, and restaurants
You can easily renovate these homes with modern materials while preserving their original character
Style, style, and more style. ..Did we mention style?

Cons

Sound proofing in these homes isn’t great—you may hear your neighbors clomping around upstairs
Narrow hallways, small windows, and a lack of a car space or balcony
Older Art Deco homes may need rewiring to meet today’s standards

Is this the home for you?

Do you have excitable pets and small children? Unless you’re into hand and paw prints on glass, you may find Art Deco homes present unique cleaning challenges. The limited inventory of homes with Art Deco features makes these beauties costly: in 2013, the average asking price for an Art Deco home was $783,589.

11. Greek Revival

If a home reminds you of a Greek temple, it’s probably Greek Revival. This style of home has never met a column it didn’t like. In the 1800s, Green Revival homes were often constructed in wood, then covered in white plaster to give the illusion of stone. Key features include a gable roof with multiple roof lines, a horizontal transom over the front door, heavy cornices, and in more expensive Greek Revival homes, details such as framed dormer windows on the second story. And don’t forget the columns. Lots. Of. Columns.

Pros

High ceilings allow for greater ventilation and keep the rooms cooler in summer
Resplendent with large open spaces for hosting guests and entertaining
These spacious homes are both extravagant and private

Cons

Their large size can make upkeep either time consuming or expensive with regards to weekly cleaning
You may not be able to recoup all your costs to renovate an unloved home to its former grandeur
The numerous entryway windows on this style of home may prove hard to secure

Is this the home for you?
The elegance and style of these homes make them popular among executives and upper management professionals because of the image Greek Revival homes project. If you’re financially comfortable and have a large family or big impression to make, this could be the home style for you.

12.

Italianate

These homes look like Victorians because they are: Italianate homes were a popular Victorian style of home from the 1840s through 1880s. Italianates are recognizable by their plain 2–3 story basic shape, elaborately decorated thick cornices, thickly hooded, arched windows, porches, and doorways. Think: sloping roofs, deep overhanging eaves, and rows of decorative brackets or corbels. Homes on the west coast were commonly constructed with plain, wood siding, and on the east coast you’ll see them in brick, stone, or stucco.

Pros

Italianate’s simple form and durable construction materials are the basis for this style’s longevity
The masonry walls in east coast Italianates can last for generations
Wooden Italianates are relatively easy to move if you’ve got a patch of land you’d rather yours sit on

Cons

The gentle sloping roofs of these homes aren’t ideal in climates where snow is likely to pile up
Ornamental details common to these homes are made from wood and are prone to damage
To maintain their glory, regular painting is needed on wood sided Italianates

Is this the home for you?
The rooms may be small, but the beauty of these homes’ exteriors is undeniable. The extraordinary details continue throughout the home making them desirable at any price point. Speaking of which, in 2013 the average asking price for an Italianate in Brooklyn would set you back $831,036. Now it’s probably more.

13. Townhouse

Typically tall and narrow, these single family homes usually have at least 2 floors and, if they’re considered a row-style townhouse, they may share a wall or two with surrounding homes. It’s common to see Victorian, Art Deco, and even contemporary townhouses. This is because townhouses are less about their architectural features and more about their efficient use of land and space. You’ll often find older townhouses built in inner city areas where land is at a premium. They may feature a small yard and/or courtyard.

Pros

Location: row-style townhouses are commonly found in metropolitan areas with lots of amenities
Less exterior maintenance due to their small yards, and outdoor space covered by HOA fees
Value for money—they typically cost less than single-family homes in the same area

Cons

While older row-style townhouses may be free from HOAs, new townhomes often expect HOA dues
Limited private outdoor space; if you’re lucky enough to have a yard it’s likely to be small
Off-street parking may be limited or non-existent

Is this the home for you?
While the lack of yard space may be negative if you have a young, energetic family, the lack of yard maintenance can be a definite plus. Their lower price point compared to single-family homes, and their convenient, lively locations can make townhouses a great choice for first-time buyers.

14. Country

Country homes are easy to spot: they’re large homes in the country. Unlike farmhouses, they don’t come with a farm. They were, however, influenced by the architectural fashions of the day. Historically, country homes were built by the wealthy as an escape from the dirt and grit of city living. For this reason, many country homes are a hop, skip, and a jump away from big cities. You’ll find them in areas such as the Hudson Valley, on the Philadelphia Main Line, Long Island, the Berkshires, and the sunny climes of California and Florida.

Pros

Before work from home became an option for many, you’d face less chance of a bidding war
You’ll enjoy cleaner air and better psychological health by being so close to nature
A country home will give you plenty of space to grow and a lower cost of living

Cons

There are fewer jobs in country areas; if you hope to work in the city you’ll face long commutes
Being responsible for more land means more time maintaining the land around your home
You’ll have much less access to public services

Is this the home for you?
Country living is a lifestyle. For fresh air, privacy, and space without the hassle of a full-on farmhouse acreage, a country house may be your winning ticket. Your children will have plenty of room to play outside, but if they’re too young to drive you may end up ferrying them long distances to meet with friends.

You’ve found your style, now find your home

Now that you know the ins and outs of 14 popular styles of houses, it's a good time to explore your mortgage options. After all, the list price of all these homes varies from place to place and the first step in learning how to know if a house is right for you is understanding the budget you have to work with. If there’s a wide range of home styles you’ve got your eye on, knowing what you can afford can help you narrow your choices. See how much you can get pre-approved for, and get that little bit closer to securing your dream home.

Get pre-approved

ready and standard. The catalog contains layouts, plans and drawings

Projects category	for one family from 40 m2
Projects	dated 30600 rubles
Projects	9000 9000 9000 9000	Thoe number of rationale projects	One-story, attic, two-story
Documentation format	Printed

The most popular and in demand among developers, including in 2020, are single-family houses. Therefore, we regularly add new single-family house project plans with original layout ideas to our catalog.

Myths that haunt the plans of houses for 1 family

The branch of architectural design, creation of schemes for private houses is developing more actively in Europe every year. And every year the amount of information about European projects is growing: both false and true. Since our company creates just such projects of houses for 1 family (photos, draft designs, drawings and videos are posted in this section), we decided to debunk all the legends that have developed around the z500 projects.

Myth one: a single-family house designed for Europe does not take into account Russian construction standards

Our company adapts projects in accordance with the requirements of building legislation. So European projects of cottages for Russia are fully brought into line with SNiPs.

The second myth: in order to make changes to the project of a cottage for 1 family, you need to involve third-party designers and architects.

Our company employs designers, architects and constructors who are highly qualified and have all the necessary information to make the necessary adjustments to standard projects of single-family houses.

Myth three: buying an individual project is cheaper than making changes to a finished project

This opinion is justified only when a European project (author's or model) is sold without the possibility of making adjustments to it. To make changes, the client must himself look for engineers and designers who will make changes to the project documentation. As a result, the cost of the project will increase significantly. Our company has all the specialists who, at a reasonable price, will correct the project immediately in accordance with the requirements of the developer. In addition, we offer our customers a number of additional services: Underfloor heating, Project design for single-family houses, Anti-ice, etc. A list of all services can be found in the “Additions” section.

Myth four: the foundation was designed for generalized soil indicators

The foundation of a typical design cannot be implemented on any type of soil. In view of this, we carry out the adaptation of the foundation, taking into account individual soil conditions in the project.

Fifth myth: projects of private cottages lack detailing of standard units

The European plan of a single-family house, taken by us as a basis, sometimes does not contain clarification of some units, since experienced builders are required to know them thoroughly.

Sixth myth: projects do not include stairs

That's right. After all, most people choose a staircase made of wood, and it makes no sense to overpay for an unnecessary calculation of a concrete structure that increases the cost estimate.

Seventh myth: the boiler room does not meet the standards

In some projects on the site, the layout of houses for 1 family is copied from the Polish version. In it, in fact, the location of the boiler room does not meet Russian standards. But when adapting the project, all its parameters are adjusted to Russian requirements.

Eighth myth: after the acquisition of the project, the client can not ask clarifying questions

After the acquisition of the project on its content, you can directly contact us at the company, where the client will receive qualified advice.

Myth nine: technical solutions for projects developed 5 years ago are irrelevant

The company's specialists regularly check all projects for their relevance and compliance with building codes.

Myth ten: house projects are not suitable for construction

Our company has been operating on the market for a long time. During this time, the company's partners have implemented many Z500 projects in various cities of the country. As proof of this, the site has a "Realization" section, which contains photographs of buildings erected according to the company's projects. That is, the projects are 100% suitable for construction.

Architectural Bureau Z500 is your guiding star on the way to your dream home. The international company offers you a wide range of architectural projects with the possibility of individual design. Each project of the architectural bureau Z500 complies with the current SNiP and SP, and also pleasantly surprises with practicality, economy and convenience in everyday life.

Projects of houses for 2 families - from 4 500 ₽

Who is suitable for the project of a one-story house for two families were nearby

Imagine how convenient it is when your parents live next to you: you can always take your children to grandparents and go about your business. But to this advantage in addition comes cohabitation. A young family usually lives separately from their parents. The project of a house for two owners is a promising direction that allows different generations to live together in harmony. You will always have a secluded place for privacy.

Inexpensive ready-made projects for two-person houses may also be of interest to just good close friends who want to live in the neighborhood and save on housing construction. As a result, you get neighbors with whom you have friendly or family relations, which allows you to minimize the problematic moments of using the common parts of the duplex house and competently approach the issue of landscaping.

If you want to build a house at half price

Those who choose to design duplexes get the opportunity to significantly reduce the cost of not only the construction of the cottage itself, but also the joint construction of outbuildings. So, from the main advantages that the project of a house for 2 families provides, significant savings on building and finishing materials come to the fore. If we compare the cost of a two-family house with the cost of two mansions of similar size, then the sale price of one square meter of a duplex will be much lower - by 20-30%. The savings come from the fact that one wall is common to two houses.

Duplex projects for two owners reduce the amount of wall material. The consumption of materials for finishing and insulation of facades is reduced by approximately 25%, since the sections are adjacent to each other on one side. By reducing the surface area of the outer walls, you additionally benefit from improved thermal insulation. In addition, when low-cost two-family house projects are implemented, the costs of supplying communications (gas supply, electricity, water supply and sewerage) are reduced. All expenses are divided in half between the future owners.

If you have a small plot of land

Another advantage of such a project is space savings. Indeed, to accommodate such a structure, a plot is needed almost 2 times less than for the construction of two separate houses of the same area for each family.

According to the requirements of the joint venture, the distance between the houses must be at least 6 m. When building a two-family duplex, you can more rationally place it on the site, and arrange a sports ground for children, a luxurious garden or put a gazebo on the saved area.

Project options

In the Proekt-shop.ru catalog you will find different standard projects of two-family houses, taking into account any wishes and financial possibilities of future owners. First you need to decide how much both parts of the house will be autonomous in relation to each other. The catalog contains options when both cottages have separate entrances:

, garages
, attic
.

It can be implemented when both halves of the duplex have different entrances, but the house has common areas (pool or sauna in the basement, garage for two cars, etc.). Regarding the layout, the duplex project can either radically differ in the two halves of the building, or it will be done in a mirror image. The location of the partitions, the number of rooms and other details are individual in both halves of the duplex. Thus, with the same appearance of parts of the house, the owners have comfortable housing that is different in style and layout.

Why choose us

The Proekt-shop.ru online store offers autonomous and practical solutions for placing friends or relatives under one roof. The presented projects of houses for two families correspond to the sanitary and construction standards in force in the territory of the Russian Federation.
Any house project you like, if necessary, can be adapted by Proekt-shop.ru specialists to the geological conditions of your land.
All projects of private houses for 2 owners are available for order with a full package of design and technical documentation (architectural, structural parts, as well as sections on internal communications and engineering networks).
The ratio of price and quality of projects in Proekt-shop.
Learn more

Various house designs

24 Popular Architectural House Styles

Queen Anne

Eastlake

Romanesque Revival

Different Types of Houses | Styles of Homes

1. Ranch

2. Classical

3. Bungalow/Beach house

4. Modern/Contemporary

5. Cabin/Cottage

6. Farmhouse

7. Mediterranean/Spanish

8. Pueblo Revival/Southwestern/Adobe

9. Victorian

10. Art Deco

11. Greek Revival

12.

13. Townhouse

14. Country

You’ve found your style, now find your home

ready and standard. The catalog contains layouts, plans and drawings

Myths that haunt the plans of houses for 1 family

Myth one: a single-family house designed for Europe does not take into account Russian construction standards

The second myth: in order to make changes to the project of a cottage for 1 family, you need to involve third-party designers and architects.

Myth three: buying an individual project is cheaper than making changes to a finished project

Myth four: the foundation was designed for generalized soil indicators

Fifth myth: projects of private cottages lack detailing of standard units

Sixth myth: projects do not include stairs

Seventh myth: the boiler room does not meet the standards

Eighth myth: after the acquisition of the project, the client can not ask clarifying questions

Myth nine: technical solutions for projects developed 5 years ago are irrelevant

Myth ten: house projects are not suitable for construction

POPULAR QUESTIONS:

Projects of houses for 2 families - from 4 500 ₽

Who is suitable for the project of a one-story house for two families were nearby

Project options

Why choose us

Learn more