4 Architectural Styles That Real Estate Agents Love Right Now
Residential architecture is often a lesson in history. For instance, Colonial-style homes first began appearing in the U.S. in the 1600s, following the European colonization of North America. At that time, settlers from Europe impressed their own building traditions on American architecture, giving rise to a wide range of housing styles that are still in use today, including the Cape Cod style.
Sociopolitical forces informed trends in residential architecture back then, as they still do today. With that said, what types of architecture styles are on popular radar now? How are housing trends and norms indicative of the times we’re currently in? And how do architectural styles differ from region to region? I consulted four real estate experts to find out.
Modern Homes That Bring the Outdoors In
“Lately, I am seeing an incredible number of modern homes popping up, even in areas where the modern farmhouse typically reigns supreme. With the pandemic forcing us to spend more time indoors, the modern home is an ideal architectural style for bringing the outdoors in. The modern home tends to boast very large picture windows, multiple balconies, and oversized patio doors, all of which allow for additional sunlight and clear sightlines to the outdoors.”—Yari Karina Jones, Realtor with Keller Williams Select Union County, North Carolina
Mid-Century Modern Ranches for Every Type of Buyer
“Denver is full of these well-built mid-century modern ranches that have open floor plans, main floor primary bedrooms, and are typically full of natural light. They work for first-time homebuyers, downsizers, and everyone in between. And the interior finishes can swing in almost every direction, from modern to traditional, depending on your taste.”—Ashleigh Fredrickson, broker with The Agency, Denver
Rowhomes with Exposed Brick and Historic Charm
“The most common type of home in Baltimore City are rowhomes. These are generally long and narrow, and most historic rowhomes have exposed brick walls. Many of my clients are looking for homes that are renovated but not stripped of their original charm, and I have a lot of clients who specifically ask for homes with exposed brick. I love the brick because it’s original to these homes and the warm red gives a nice pop of color and adds a rustic vibe.”—Molly Reed, Realtor with Red Cedar Real Estate, Maryland
Contemporary Classical Architecture That Merges Old and New
“In today’s world, where we are so over-stimulated, I appreciate contemporary classical architecture. Contemporary classical architecture is modern and minimalistic, with a touch of the traditional character that many of us grew up with. This style always makes me feels at home.”—Yenisse Hernandez, member of The Coast Team at Compass, New York