13 Home Styles You Should Know When Searching for Your Dream House

1. Mid-Century Modern

As the name suggests, mid-century modern architecture gained popularity from the 1940s through the '60s, with roots tracing back to the Bauhaus school in Germany.

Architect Michele Rudolph, founder of Riverside Design, explains that 'Mid-century modern [homes] are known for blending indoor and outdoor living with expansive glass windows, walk-out terraces, and simple geometric shapes.' 'They represented a new way of living during an era that embraced modern technologies and conveniences.'

She adds that these homes often feature open floor plans, high and sometimes angled ceilings, large sliding glass doors, creative yet precise design details, and outdoor patio spaces.

2. Scandinavian

Many may not realize that Scandinavian architecture greatly influenced mid-century modern design. Both styles share characteristics like clean lines, organic shapes, minimalism, and a strong connection to nature.

The key difference between the two is that Scandinavian design places a heavier emphasis on blending indoor and outdoor spaces. This is achieved through the use of natural materials like wood and stone (often light-colored or whitewashed) and large windows that bring in abundant natural light, fostering a seamless connection to the outdoors.

3. Contemporary

Interestingly, contemporary homes share many similarities with mid-century modern design. In fact, most contemporary houses have their roots in modernism, showcasing clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist elements.

"The style is defined by a neutral color palette, uncluttered spaces, and often expansive windows that flood the interiors with natural light," says luxury architectural designer Tim Roberts, CEO of Material. "It’s constantly evolving and represents 21st-century architecture. Natural materials like stone, wood, and concrete are commonly used, with geometric forms and soft color tones typically serving as the primary visual features."

4. Spanish Revival

Often called Spanish Colonial Revival, this architectural style has its origins in the Spanish colonization of the Americas. "Typically, the style is marked by light-colored stucco with deeply recessed windows and terracotta details," says Jeff Hansen, an architect at Forge & Bow in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Common features include stunning arched doorways and windows, low-profile roofs with red clay tiles, and decorative wrought iron elements on balconies and windows. Inside, you'll often find intricate tile work on floors, and sometimes walls, exposed wooden beams, and custom-crafted wood features.

An additional standout feature of Spanish Revival homes is their beautifully designed patios, often found around the edges of the house or occasionally in the center of the home itself.

5. Ranch

"Ranch-style homes are a distinctly American design with roots in the colonial period of the southwest," notes Rudolph. "Spanish colonizers used local materials like adobe bricks to construct modest, cost-effective single-story homes. The simple geometry of these early structures made it easy to add more rectangular rooms as settlers' needs expanded."

Ranch homes typically feature a low, single-story design, with a spacious living area that acts as the home’s central gathering place, a series of bedrooms spread throughout the floor plan, and gentle, sloping rooflines.

6. Bungalow

While ranch homes are known for their expansive floor plans, bungalows take a different approach with their more compact design. "Bungalows are defined by their small, cozy spaces, charming architectural features, and a wealth of character," says interior designer Maggie Griffin. "Many homes built in the early 1900s fall into this category, with entire neighborhoods springing up for the working class."

She notes, “Many bungalows feature wide board siding or shingles on the exterior, dormer windows, and expansive front porches.” She also mentions that the ceilings and rooms are often smaller, so if you love this style but need more space, look for one with more open areas.

7. Tudor

Tudor homes originated in England and offered a refreshing contrast to the bungalow style homes that became popular across America in the late 1900s. This design is best known for its timber-framed structure, steeply pitched roofs and facades, and distinctive use of mixed building materials.

"With exteriors crafted from brick, limestone, or stacked stone, Tudor homes can also feature stained glass windows and slate roofs," says Griffin. "Many authentic Tudor homes tend to be darker on the inside, with richly stained wood." Many also showcase beautiful chimneys and exposed beams, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

8. Victorian

Victorian-style homes first emerged during the late 19th century in Britain, known for their dazzling intricate details and vibrant exteriors. These homes are typically quite tall, often standing at two or more stories, with some reaching three or even four.

"They maximized the potential of the land where they were built, with expansive floor plans, elegant decorative exterior elements, tall windows, and porches," explains Rudolph. "Victorian homes freely incorporated ornamental designs from a variety of architectural styles. One might encounter Victorian homes with Italianate cupolas, gingerbread trim, and decorative shingles."

9. Craftsman

Craftsman homes can be seen as a counter to the ornate Victorian homes that became popular in the late 1800s. In the early 1900s, the design focus shifted to more modest and streamlined forms. "Craftsman homes often feature rustic elements, abundant warm wood tones, detailed millwork, slanted porch roofs, and spacious front porches," says Griffin.

True to its name, this style emphasizes artisanal craftsmanship and natural materials. The interiors frequently boast more open layouts, abundant wood accents, and a prioritization of functionality over aesthetics.

10. Beach House

The hallmark of a beach house is, of course, its close proximity to the coast, but there’s so much more to this architectural style. It is characterized by a laid-back, minimalist design, a neutral color scheme, an open, breezy atmosphere, and stunning coastal vistas.

"Beach houses, which originated in the early 1900s, are often known for their bright and welcoming atmosphere," explains Roberts. "They usually feature white-washed clapboard exteriors, expansive windows, and wide verandas designed to shield from the sun and salty sea air."

He adds that these homes frequently showcase a charming wraparound porch, shuttered windows, and a sloping roof. To enhance their character, they are often adorned with weathervanes, fish-shaped decor, and nautical-themed accents.

11. Adobe

While beach houses are perfectly suited for coastal living, adobe homes are designed to merge with the desert landscape. These homes are typically found in the dry Southwest, including Arizona, New Mexico, southern Utah, and parts of California. The term 'adobe' refers to the building material made from a mixture of clay, sand, straw, and water, then covered with stucco or mud.

"Adobe-style homes blend seamlessly with the environment, creating an organic, natural appearance," explains Faraz Tajik, custom home builder and CEO of Crest Builders. "The design often incorporates rounded corners and arched doorways, with small windows providing ventilation while maintaining the building's insulating properties."

12. Gothic

Gothic architecture often brings to mind the majestic churches scattered across Europe. This style, which emerged during the medieval period around the 12th century, saw a notable revival in the 18th and 19th centuries. When adapted for homes, it incorporates signature elements like pointed arches, intricate detailing, steep roofs, and elaborate stonework.

"Gothic homes are distinguished by their elaborate carvings in stone, brick, or wood, as well as varying window shapes and sizes," explains Roberts. "Interestingly, these homes often feature multiple entrances, turrets, spires, and sometimes even finials."

13. Mediterranean

The Mediterranean architectural style originated in the countries that line the Mediterranean Sea, such as Spain, Italy, Greece, and Morocco. Now, this style can be seen worldwide, in places ranging from coastal regions to hilly landscapes, often far removed from its initial origins.

"Its popularity across various environments is due to the flexibility of its design," says Tajik. "The use of stone, stucco, precast materials, and terracotta tiles creates the characteristic arches and columns, which are central to this style." Mediterranean homes are also known for their open, airy layouts that flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces.