28 Different Styles of Houses You’ll Want to Know Before Buying or Remodeling

When it comes to choosing or admiring a home, it’s not just about square footage or neighborhood — the style of the house plays a huge role in how it feels and functions. Whether you’re house-hunting, renovating, or simply curious about architecture, learning about different styles of houses is a fascinating way to appreciate the diversity of homes across the country.

Growing up, many of us could easily spot a “farmhouse” or a “Victorian,” but the truth is, there are dozens of unique architectural styles — each with its own personality, materials, and defining features. Some are sleek and minimalist, while others are rich with historic details and ornamentation. The more you learn, the easier it is to figure out which house style speaks to your heart.

This comprehensive guide explores 28 different styles of houses you might encounter, from the cozy charm of a Cape Cod cottage to the clean lines of a Midcentury Modern. Use this as your ultimate reference to identify house styles, understand their design elements, and maybe even get inspiration for your next remodel.

1. Different Styles of Houses: Craftsman Bungalows

Craftsman bungalows are adored for their warm, welcoming vibe and handcrafted details. These one- or one-and-a-half-story homes feature deep porches, exposed rafters, and tapered columns. They became popular during the early 1900s as part of the Arts and Crafts movement.

Inside, expect built-in cabinetry, wood trim, and an open layout that feels cozy but functional. If you love character-rich homes with timeless appeal, this style is a winner.

2. Different Styles of Houses: Midcentury Modern

If you’re drawn to simplicity and lots of glass, you’ll love Midcentury Modern homes. Built between the 1940s and 1970s, these homes emphasize clean lines, flat planes, and a connection to nature through large windows and sliding doors.

Open floor plans and minimalist decor are key elements, making this style perfect for those who appreciate uncluttered spaces and functional design.

3. Different Styles of Houses: Colonial Revival

Colonial Revival houses are known for their symmetry and classic proportions. Inspired by 18th-century American colonial architecture, they feature central front doors, multi-pane windows, and gabled roofs.

They often include brick or wood siding and shutters for added charm. This style remains one of the most popular in the United States for its timeless look.

4. Different Styles of Houses: Tudor Revival

Tudor homes are easy to spot thanks to their steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and charming stone or brick exteriors. Many have arched doorways and casement windows that give them a storybook quality.

They became a status symbol during the 1920s and 1930s, and today they still offer a romantic, old-world feel for homeowners.

5. Different Styles of Houses: Cape Cod

Cape Cod homes are simple, symmetrical, and cozy. Originating in New England in the 17th century, these homes feature steep gable roofs, central chimneys, and dormer windows.

Their charming, compact layout makes them especially appealing as starter homes or vacation cottages.

6. Different Styles of Houses: Mediterranean

Mediterranean homes take inspiration from Spanish, Italian, and Greek architecture. Expect red-tile roofs, stucco walls, wrought-iron balconies, and arched windows or doorways.

This style thrives in warmer climates and is perfect for those who love an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, with courtyards and patios often included in the design.

7. Different Styles of Houses: Modern Farmhouse

Modern farmhouse style combines rustic farmhouse elements with a sleek, modern twist. Think vertical board-and-batten siding, black window frames, and wide front porches paired with modern lighting and open-concept interiors.

This style has surged in popularity over the past decade thanks to its mix of comfort and sophistication.

8. Different Styles of Houses: Prairie Style

Prairie-style homes were made famous by Frank Lloyd Wright and focus on horizontal lines that mimic the surrounding landscape. They often have flat or low-pitched roofs, overhanging eaves, and rows of windows.

Their open floor plans make them feel airy and connected to nature — a great choice for lovers of organic architecture.

9. Different Styles of Houses: Ranch

Ranch homes are single-story homes with long, low layouts. They became wildly popular in the mid-20th century for their practicality and open floor plans.

Many ranch homes include attached garages, sliding glass doors leading to backyards, and L-shaped designs.

10. Different Styles of Houses: Townhouses

Townhouses are multi-level homes that share one or two walls with neighboring houses. They’re often found in urban areas and maximize vertical space with two or three floors.

They offer the privacy of a single-family home but with a smaller footprint, making them a popular choice in cities.

11. Different Styles of Houses: Log Cabin

Log cabins are rustic homes typically built from stacked logs. Once used as practical frontier dwellings, they’ve become a symbol of cozy, back-to-nature living.

Modern versions often feature large windows, wraparound decks, and open-concept interiors perfect for vacation homes.

12. Different Styles of Houses: Contemporary

Contemporary homes are defined by their current-day design rather than a specific historical era. They often feature bold geometric shapes, eco-friendly materials, and innovative floor plans.

Sustainability is key, with many including energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and green roofs.

13. Different Styles of Houses: Brownstones

Brownstones are urban rowhouses with brown sandstone facades. They’re iconic in cities like New York and Boston, and often have multiple stories with stoops leading up to the main entrance.

Inside, expect tall ceilings, large windows, and beautiful original details like fireplaces and moldings.

14. Different Styles of Houses: Cottages

Cottages are small, charming homes that often feature wood siding, cozy interiors, and inviting gardens. They can range from coastal beach cottages to fairytale-like countryside homes.

Their smaller size makes them efficient, budget-friendly, and perfect for those seeking a simpler lifestyle.

15. Different Styles of Houses: Carriage Houses

Carriage houses were originally built to store horse-drawn carriages but have since been converted into living spaces. They often retain arched doorways and historical details, making them unique and full of character.

Today, many are renovated as guest houses, rental units, or artist studios.

16. Different Styles of Houses: Split-Level

Split-level homes have staggered floor levels connected by short flights of stairs. This design was especially popular in the 1950s–1970s for its efficient use of space and separation of living areas.

They’re perfect for families looking for a functional layout with designated zones for living, sleeping, and recreation.

17. Different Styles of Houses: French Provincial

French Provincial homes feature steep roofs, symmetrical facades, and elegant brick or stone exteriors. Inspired by the French countryside, they often include tall windows with shutters and wrought-iron details.

They strike a beautiful balance between formality and rustic charm.

18. Different Styles of Houses: Georgian

Georgian homes are known for their balanced, symmetrical layouts and classic detailing. Expect brick or stone exteriors, gabled roofs, and paneled doors with decorative crowns.

This style exudes formality and has remained popular for centuries due to its elegance.

19. Different Styles of Houses: Neo-Classical

Neo-classical homes take cues from ancient Greek and Roman architecture, often featuring large columns, porticos, and grand entryways.

If you’ve ever admired The White House, you’ve admired Neo-classical design. These homes make a bold, timeless statement.

20. Different Styles of Houses: Barndominiums

A rising trend, barndominiums combine the rustic look of a barn with the comfort of a modern home. They’re characterized by large open spaces, metal siding, and vaulted ceilings.

These are popular for those seeking a customizable, cost-effective housing option with a rural aesthetic.

21. Different Styles of Houses: Adobe

Adobe homes are made of sun-dried earth and straw, giving them their signature warm, earthy look. Popular in the Southwest, they have thick walls, flat roofs, and rounded corners.

They’re energy efficient and perfect for hot, dry climates.

22. Different Styles of Houses: Coastal

Coastal homes are designed with beach living in mind. They feature elevated foundations, wide porches, and large windows to take advantage of ocean views and breezes.

Light, airy interiors with a nautical palette complete the look.

23. Different Styles of Houses: Victorian

Victorian homes are ornate and detailed, with turrets, gables, wraparound porches, and intricate woodwork.

They’re ideal for those who appreciate dramatic, historic homes with plenty of character.

24. Different Styles of Houses: Minimalist

Minimalist houses focus on simplicity, clean lines, and clutter-free spaces. Often built with sustainable materials, they prioritize function and light.

Perfect for lovers of a modern, serene lifestyle.

25. Different Styles of Houses: Treehouses

Treehouses aren’t just for kids anymore — luxury treehouses are now a legitimate housing style. Elevated among the trees, these homes offer an immersive nature experience with creative architecture.

They’re perfect for vacation rentals or adventurous homeowners.

FAQ: Different Styles of Houses

Q: How can I tell what style my house is?A: Look for key features like roof shape, window style, and building materials. Comparing your home to guides like this can help you identify its style.

Q: What’s the most popular house style in the U.S.?A: Ranch homes remain one of the most common, but Modern Farmhouses have become extremely popular in recent years.

Q: Can you mix different house styles?A: Absolutely! Many modern renovations blend traditional architecture with contemporary elements for a fresh look.

Ready to Design Your Dream Home?

At BY Design And Viz, we specialize in helping clients bring their vision to life — whether that means remodeling an existing home or designing a new space from scratch. Get in touch today to start planning your dream home design with our expert team.