When planning to build a custom home one of the fundamental questions to ask is what ‘Design Style’
you will choose. The list of possibilities on the most popular house plan websites can be somewhat
confusing since the architectural style lists are often lengthy and they all differ in breakdown. So where to begin?

The 14 Home Styles of Houzz

A great starting point is the Exterior Style list as defined by Houzz. It contains 14 simple styles which carry throughout the website, so once you’ve made a choice the same Style and type of architecture can also be used to search for matching interior design ideas.

1. Contemporary

Often described as ‘less is more’, it features open spaces, clean lines, projecting rooflines, smooth profiles, solid neutral colors and minimal accessories. Houzz Contemporary

1. Eclectic

This style doesn’t follow many rules but instead combines a contrast of colors, textures and shapes with unusual elements. Houzz Eclectic

 

1. Modern

This 1920s-1950s style is defined by the ‘form follows function’ of Art Deco; flat roof, clean interiors, curved walls, molded plywood & plastic and white walls. Houzz Modern

1. Traditional

Inspired by the past, it features little ornamentation, simple peaked rooflines, symmetrical windows, and wood combined with brick. Houzz Traditional

1. Asian

Interior and exterior elements are blurred together with earth tone colors, multiple roof slopes and sliding doors that follow Feng Shui design rules. Houzz Asian

1. Beach Style

The homes are adaptable for use as a vacation house near water or even in mountain areas. Houzz Beach Style

1. Craftsman

Featuring low-pitched gabled roof with wide overhangs, exposed roof rafters and porches with tapered columns. Houzz Craftsman

1. Farmhouse

This style features wood siding and large porches with a friendly open kitchen and living
room for gatherings. Houzz Farmhouse

1. Industrial

Characterized by utilitarian spaces with high ceilings, cool colors and salvaged re-purposed objects. Houzz Industrial

1. Mediterranean

Constructed with a stucco exterior and tile roof this style has shallow roofs and arched overhangs surrounding patios and courtyards. Houzz Mediterranean

1. Midcentury

Spanning the mid-1940s to 1970 this style combines organic and man-made materials with indoor-outdoor living. Houzz Midcentury

1. Rustic

Inspired by pioneer ancestors, this style is rugged with rough-hewn beams, exterior stonework and warm fireplaces. Houzz Rustic

1. Transitional

It blends the clean lines and neutral colors of the contemporary with the warmth of traditional design. Houzz Transitional

1. Tropical

Designed with plenty of windows and doors to circulate air, this style encourages outdoor living with covered porches that protect from sun and rain. Houzz Tropical

Essence Interiors

Your own personal style and choices shouldn’t be limited by these 14 categories but it’s a great place to start. As you begin to hunt and gather ideas for your dream home you may find yourself combining different architectural elements or using websites that break down your chosen style into further sub-categories. Wherever the journey takes you make sure to document your style ideas, digitally or with hard copy pictures, so that it’s easier to share your vision with the builder that you choose.

West Coast Craftsman and West Coast Contemporary are two specific styles that are popular in North and West Vancouver. We’ll cover these in more detail in future blogs.Happy hunting!