5 Most Used Architectural Styles in Colorado
Over the years, architectural styles have developed from artistic, cultural, technological, and economic movements. When thinking about building a home or investing in a home remodel, it’s important to understand what’s available to determine which style best fits your needs and personal taste. Take a look at some of the most popular architectural styles in Colorado to help determine your personal residential design style.
American Bungalow
The American Bungalow is a beloved architectural style for single-family homes that emerged near the turn of the 20th century. Early settlers adapted this design from a home style originating in India called “bangla,” a modest structure originally intended for wayfarers. In the US, these homes offered traditional and simplistic design with space-efficient floor plans, perfect for a small family. Key features include covered front porches with heavy pillars, wide welcoming stairs, cedar shingles, and clapboard siding. This charming red bungalow is a prime example of a Melton exterior home remodel.
Craftsman Redux | Boulder, CO
Contemporary
Contemporary architecture is defined by the building styles of the present day, characterized by open floor plans, oversized windows, the use of repurposed and energy-efficient materials, and a focus on functionality over style. Contemporary homes strive to connect indoor and outdoor spaces, incorporating the surrounding environment into the overall design. While these homes often appear luxurious, they are designed with practicality in mind, using modern building and home technologies to create refined, efficient living spaces.
Contemporary Collaboration | Boulder, CO
Raised Ranch
Raised ranch homes are ideal for families due to their space efficiency and practicality. Typically featuring two stories with the lower story at ground level or slightly below grade, these homes often include an attached garage, minimal exterior decoration, and asymmetrical design. The floor plans offer ample living space with large windows on both levels, providing bright and welcoming natural light throughout the home.
Split Level Suite | Boulder, CO
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-century modern homes emphasize efficiency and minimalism, characterized by open floor plans, built-in furniture like bookshelves or window seating, and extensive floor-to-ceiling windows. This style emerged in the mid-20th century, influenced by the availability of new building materials like steel and plywood post-World War II. The movement, largely driven by Frank Lloyd Wright, focuses on the simplification of form and minimal decoration. Homeowners are increasingly remodeling to achieve this style, often by knocking down walls to create open, functional living spaces.
Mid-Mod Masterpiece | Boulder, CO
Mountain Rustic
Native to Colorado, the mountain rustic style uses logs and stone to blend homes into their natural, mountainous surroundings. These homes aim to embody a rustic yet refined aesthetic, ideal for those drawn to the mountain lifestyle and the look and feel of log cabins. This style is perfect for anyone who loves all things mountain and desires a home that reflects that passion.
Rustic Refresh | Nederland, CO
For more information on these popular residential styles, check out our guide 7 Architectural Design Styles and How to Take Them Up a Notch.
