Choosing the Right Style of Home

Colonial 

When it comes to house styles, you’ll recognize the Colonial’s commanding exterior by its symmetrical appearance and classic details such as columns or porticos, multi-pane windows with shutters, and brick or horizontal siding.

Abundant windows make these homes welcoming and bright. The Colonial style typically has a central foyer and staircase flanked by a living room and dining room on either side with a kitchen in the rear.

The Kingsport by Caruso Homes is a popular Colonial style home for families. What separates this from other options? The Caribbean or California spa baths make it stand out! You also get your choice between a gourmet kitchen design or a chef’s kitchen, both excellent in their own right.

Contemporary homes often get confused with modern style, but contemporary actually refers to a constantly evolving design based on what is popular at the present time, where modern style refers to a specific time period from the early to mid-twentieth century. 

Contemporary homes are popular thanks to their functional design. With a focus on clean lines and symmetry, these homes usually have fewer exterior adornments and a smaller footprint than others — but make up for it with spacious and stylish interiors.

What does this mean for you? Well-thought out floor plans like the Hamilton offer generous rooms with flowing open layouts and a smaller overall footprint. Our contemporary Seahawk floor plan takes advantage of outdoor living too, with the option to add a sunroom and decks on every level. It’s a stunning choice to complement waterfront views!

The Modern Farmhouse architecture draws its inspiration from old farmhouses and rustic barns. They often boast modern amenities like open floor plans, large windows, wood floors, and reclaimed wood beams that are exposed to the interior of the home.

These houses often include outdoor living spaces, such as wrap-around porches, to replicate the feel of an old country home.

Modern Farmhouse architecture offers a variety of options, from traditional to contemporary, and has many finishes that are customizable by the builder, such as wood tones, siding colors and roofing materials. Today’s farmhouse style often feature white or light vertical siding with black metal porch roofs and simple flat trim.

The Coverdale is one of the many plans by Caruso Homes that offer a modern farmhouse design option.

Craftsman 

Craftsman homes are extremely popular these days and are easily recognized by the low pitched or clipped-gable roofs, covered porches with tapered columns and exposed beams, brackets and rafters. Exteriors typically feature three types of siding—lap (horizontal), shake, and board & batten (vertical)—which are often combined in earthy tones with stone accents.

The craftsman-style extends to the interior of the home as well where simplicity is the key. Squared-edge trim is used for moulding, doors have flat panels, and shaker or mission-style elements are found in the staircase and cabinetry. Classic craftsman-style features natural wood tones, however some modern styles lend well to being painted in white or light tones.

Many Caruso Homes models offer craftsman-style elevations and interior trim options. Some of our favorites are the Hayes from our 55+ collection or the Lexington II from our Estate Series. 

Ranch-style houses are very dimensional, one-story homes with low roofs, wide eaves, and a porch. They are recognizable by their lengthy appearance, allowing builders to make the most of the square footage and give residents more living space inside. Because of their size and layout, Ranch homes often require large, wide home sites.

With everything usually on one level, ranchers are a popular choice for both new homeowners and those looking to age in place.

The Baywood in our Maryland communities and the Charleston in North Carolina both highlight the best aspects of the traditional Ranch home. Caruso Homes also offers a variety of smaller ranch styles, such as the Tillery, that are perfect for downsizers or fitting on smaller lots.

And if you love hosting guests and entertaining outdoors, these floor plans allow you to add a second story, basement, and screened back porch. They are truly Ranch-style living at its finest!

When it comes to your next home purchase, there are a number of styles available for you. It’s important to make sure that the one you choose is right for your needs, budget and aesthetic preferences. 

Many of Caruso Homes floor plans have multiple styles of elevations to select from. So once you narrow down the layout you like, you can choose if you prefer that home in a traditional colonial style, an artisan craftsman style or a rustic farmhouse style. 

Visit the floorplans section of our website to explore the various designs available.  Need help deciding? Contact us today…we’ll help you find the perfect match!