A Colonial style house is one of a variety of styles introduced by the early American settlers the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. They were built with materials that were available locally and in a style that was familiar to them. The houses were typically square or rectangular with a side gabled roof, stone or wood construction, thick brick chimneys, and small multi-lite windows.
The majority of what is seen throughout the country now is actually considered Colonial Revival or American Colonial Revival style. These homes became popular in the mid-19th and 20th centuries after the centennial celebrations of 1876, at which time Americans turned back to colonial period architectural traditions. Here’s Why Colonial-Style Homes Reign Supreme according to elledecor.com.
Taking their cues from houses of the American colonial period, the houses typically are characterized by an even symmetry built in wood, brick, or stone, with side gabled roofs, shuttered windows, brick chimneys, and centered front doors. They may also have an open front porch, columns, and dormer windows. Bhg.com has 18 Colonial House Styles with Enduring Charm.
Color Pallet
The traditional colonial home brings to mind the black and white color combination, but that is far from the only option. Off-white, yellow, gray, or the occasional pastel can be used for the body of the home. Gray-blue and gray-green are also popular.
The trim, shutters and doors should be a dark, contrasting color, regardless of the color palette. This is also an opportunity to modernize the color scheme while still honoring the home’s features with a pop of deep red or pine green. This Old House Online offers Paint Palettes for Colonial & Colonial Revival Houses for inspiration.
Siding Type
Colonial house siding is not as limited of a design style as it would seem. In fact, there are many different colors and styles that you can experiment with when exploring colonial home siding ideas. Regardless of the style you choose, it is important to make sure that the siding always highlights the architectural value of the home. Honor the natural balance and symmetry of a colonial homes.
If you are using a traditional white and black color combination, stick with a traditional siding style like smooth lap siding with a horizontal layout. If your house is a Dutch colonial, go with a modern exterior material like fiber cement that can easily transition between exterior walls and roofing. If you are outside of a traditional color palette, a shake-style texture of siding will give your home character and play off of the traditional elements to create a dynamic look.
Shingle Type
Wood shakes and wood shingles are the most common roofing material for colonial style roofs. It is a classic, natural option that creates a beautiful, rustic appearance. However, natural cedar wood shakes require a great deal of maintenance.
You can save on upkeep by choosing natural slate, asphalt, or synthetic shingles that mimic the appearance of wood and slate. Three common roofing color choices for a Colonial-style home are black, gray or a blend of autumn reds and dark browns. The black and gray palette create a stately feeling whereas the autumn palette reflects a warm, natural cedar tone.
Delve in to Details
Enhance the appeal of the Colonial home’s simple geometry with shutters flanking each window. Consider adding decorative molding or a covered portico with columns to enhance the look of the front door but keep embellishment to a minimum to stay true to the style.
Do you love the Colonial style?
The experts at Dynasty Restoration and Roofing are ready to give your Colonial home a refresh that stays true to everything you love about it. Contact us today for a free estimate!
