7 Classic Features of New England Style Homes
New England style homes, with their rich history and distinctive charm, have long captured the imagination of homeowners and architects alike. These homes, which range from the rustic simplicity of a Cape Cod cottage to the grandeur of a Georgian mansion, are steeped in history and continue to influence modern architecture.
This blog explores the quintessential characteristics that define New England style homes, their various types, where they are typically found, and whether they remain relevant in today’s architectural landscape.
What Classifies a Home as “New England Style”?
New England style homes are characterized by their adaptability to the northeastern climate, historical architectural elements, and a sense of timeless elegance. These homes often reflect the region’s colonial past but have evolved, incorporating modern amenities while retaining their traditional charm. The design usually focuses on practicality and durability to withstand harsh winters, emphasizing warmth and comfort in internal design.
Types of New England Style Homes
When thinking about the types of New England style homes, you may be wondering what they’re called. We have you covered:
- Cape Cod: The classic New England style home that most people think of when hearing this term. Originating from New England’s Cape Cod (Massachusetts) region, these homes are celebrated for their symmetrical design and steep gabled roofs, a practical feature for shedding heavy snowfall typical in New England winters.
- Colonial: Rooted in the American colonial period, particularly prevalent in New England, Colonial homes are known for their straightforward, rectangular shape and a large, central chimney, an efficient design for heating multiple rooms in colder climates. Many people also refer to these homes as “salt boxes.”
- Georgian: Named after the reigns of the first four British monarchs of the House of Hanover, Georgian homes found a foothold in New England. They are notable for their classical details, such as pedimented doorways, symmetrically aligned windows, and formal facades reflecting the style’s emphasis on order and symmetry.
- Victorian: With the Industrial Revolution introducing new construction technologies, Victorian homes emerged in New England, distinguished by their ornate details and eclectic styles. This era saw various designs, from Gothic Revival to Queen Anne, marked by decorative trim, asymmetrical facades, and vibrant colors.You’ll see these types of homes in older communities with historic downtowns, but also built in the countryside where people used to vacation.
Location and Historical Relevance of New England Style Homes
New England style homes are predominantly found throughout the northeastern United States, especially in states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Maine. These homes have historical roots dating back to the early colonial period and continue to be built today, often blending traditional designs with modern living standards.
7 Classic Features of New England Style Homes
When touring a class New England style home, you’ll often come across some distinguished and defined features, including:
1. Crown Moulding
Designed to easily shed snow, steep gabled roofs are a practical and iconic aspect of New England architecture, particularly in Cape Cod and Colonial-style homes.
2. Steep Gabled Roofs
Select a builder who has expertise in the specific innovative features you desire, whether it’s sustainable building practices, smart home technology, or aging-in-place design. Check their portfolio for similar projects and ask for client testimonials. It’s also essential to ensure that your builder is technically proficient and compatible in terms of communication style and project management approach.
3. Clapboard Siding
Traditional New England homes often feature clapboard siding, a type of wood siding known for its horizontal planks, which provide durability and a classic look.
4. Symmetrical Facades
Symmetry is a key element, especially in Colonial and Georgian homes, with doors and windows often evenly spaced and aligned to create a harmonious exterior.
5. Central Chimneys
Double-hung windows with shutters are common in New England style homes, offering practicality and charm while allowing for easy ventilation.
6. Double-Hung Windows
Ensure your builder is knowledgeable and comfortable working with modern technologies and sustainable practices essential in innovative home building. This includes smart home technology, energy-efficient systems, and eco-friendly materials. Their familiarity with these areas will enhance the functionality and sustainability of your home.
7. Decorative Doorways
Many New England homes, particularly Federal and Georgian styles, feature elaborate doorways with decorative pediments, pilasters, and transom windows.
How Builders are Modernizing Traditional New England Style Home Features
In contemporary architecture, there’s a growing trend of modernizing the traditional features of New England style homes, blending classic with modern. This approach maintains the charm and character of these historic designs while updating them for contemporary living. Key elements of this modernization include:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Incorporating sustainable materials, such as eco-friendly insulation or reclaimed wood, adds a modern touch while respecting the environmental ethos of today’s world.
- Open Floor Plans: While traditional New England homes often have closed and compact floor plans, modern adaptations favor open, airy spaces that foster a more connected living environment.
- Contemporary Color Palettes: Updating the color schemes with more contemporary hues can breathe new life into the traditional aesthetics of New England homes.
- Modern Lighting: Incorporating modern lighting fixtures in traditional designs adds a fresh and contemporary flair, enhancing the home’s ambiance.
- Updated Crown Moulding: Keeping the crown moulding but opting for simpler, cleaner lines can create a blend of classic elegance and modern minimalism.
- Energy Efficiency: Modernizing these homes often involves integrating energy-efficient windows, heating systems, and appliances, reducing the carbon footprint while enhancing comfort.
Silver Maple’s Expert Blend of Classic and Modern New England Style Homes
At Silver Maple, we specialize in the art of blending the timeless charm of New England style homes with modern living requirements. We understand the intrinsic value of traditional features like crown moulding and steep gabled roofs and are skilled at modernizing these elements to align with contemporary aesthetics and functionality. Our approach involves using eco-friendly materials, creating open and airy spaces, and integrating energy-efficient systems while maintaining the classic elegance inherent in New England architecture. With Silver Maple, clients receive a home that respects the rich architectural heritage of New England while enjoying the comforts and efficiencies of modern living. Whether it’s a complete build or a thoughtful renovation, we ensure that each project is a perfect meld of the traditional and the contemporary, crafting spaces that are not only visually stunning but also sustainable and suited to the lifestyles of our clients.
To learn more about our building approach and to learn more about our past projects across New England, get in touch with our team.