Colonials are known for having a timeless, historical, regal style. They have simple, classical design details. Colonial style house plans were influenced by traditions brought by the settlers of the 13 original colonies. They are rectangular in architectural design and have symmetrical facades. Colonials are 1, 2, and even 3 stories. The 2 story designs with grand front columns are the most common. Today, Colonials have family rooms or great rooms and attached garages. Attached garages are convenient and add additional living space with the completion of the area over the garage. The living and dining areas are typically on the first floor, while the bedrooms are on the second floor or upper floor. To maintain that symmetrical facade, a central front door, (which may be slightly offset), is a definite identifier. Central front doors may be paneled and have window sidelights, transoms, or fanlights. These centralized front doors allow for a center entry hallway and center entry floor plan. Multi-paned, double hung windows are equally spaced on both sides. Colonials may also have beautiful Palladian windows. Palladian windows are usually divided into three sections with the center section being arched and the largest. Shutters and dormers complete this classic, polished look.
Colonial exteriors may be brick, stone, wood siding, or vinyl siding. The wood siding exteriors or vinyl siding exteriors of Colonials are often painted white and accented with black shutters. Roofs are generally gabled. The roof ridge is often horizontal. This roof pitch facilitates the prime setting for a covered porch. Great pillars and grand columns decorate the front of the Colonial. Detailed dentil moldings are features of the Colonial. Another distinguishing note is the large chimneys and fireplaces that may be on both ends of the home. This enables fireplaces to be both upstairs and down. The great rooms, or family rooms, kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms may all have fireplaces as well.
If you are looking for a timeless, classic home design that offers functionality and convenience, consider the Colonial style house plan for your dream home plan!
