One of the first things people associate with New England, aside from the Patriots, is the architecture. Reminiscent of simpler times in American History, New England-styled architecture is popular the world over for its character, charm, and history. In fact, many of the buildings and homes that we see today are historic and in their original state from the 1700s while others have a few cosmetic touches and historically reproduced pieces to restore the homes to their original glory.
With over 400 years of history behind them, the New England style of home is just as diverse as it is respected. From farmhouse styled homes to primitively designed shops, classic American culture is preserved in the very woodworked frames of the many styles of the New England home. Even those with modern updates and historical reproduction doors or windows still hold the basic charms that serve as reminders of gorgeous New England architecture. While there are a number of different styles, the most common types include seaport, farmhouse, coastal, and of course traditional.
Seaport
This style is also referred to as the Federal/Adam Style and dominated much of the architectural scene from the late 1700’s through the mid-1800’s. Typically found in areas such as Portsmouth and Boston, it’s a re-imagined version of the Georgian style home. Seaport styles are usually brick homes with boxed windows, white trims, and adorned with cast iron lamps. While many of these historic homes have seen updates and historically reproduced doors, windows, and exteriors, many of these buildings and homes are still standing in their original condition, remaining as constant reminders of true American architecture.
Farmhouse
Farmhouse styles are exceptionally trendy nowadays. Everyone wants a traditional farmhouse styled kitchen or bedroom straight from an HGTV episode. But in New England, large, airy farmhouses are a cultural staple. Nothing evokes feelings of what true American hard work means more than a farmhouse styled-home. Aside from the medium to large plots of land, farmhouses homes are idealized for their white woodwork, central hearth or fireplace that could be used for cooking, and colonial styles as well.
Coastal
If you’re familiar with towns such as Nantucket and even the Hamptons, you’re familiar with the coastal style of home that is a staple in New England. Even if you’ve never personally visited the area, you know all too well the style that is surrounded by crystal blue waters and weatherworn wood. Rising to popularity in the late 1900’s, expansive driveways and meticulously manicured lawns are just small pieces to the world of coastal homes. If the beautiful water view isn’t enough, you’ll know a coastal home when you see neutral shingles surrounded by white trim, verandas, and colonial revival styles on sprawling homes.
Traditional
It’s practically impossible to discuss the beauty that is architecture found throughout New England without discussing traditional styled homes. When you see these gorgeous homes, you know exactly where you are and what you are looking at. Traditional New England homes are colonial in design and typically denoted by columns, dormers, white built in cabinets and kitchens. These iconic homes are what many build their American dreams around.
Whether New England homes have your favorite style of architecture or not, the fact still remains they are historically beautiful in their own right. A tour through New England is a tour through an American time capsule.
