Newcomers to Florida are often amazed at the architectural variety. The State’s history, weather, farmland, and miles of coastline have inspired different building styles that appeal to various tastes. The Sunshine State offers everything from historic “Old Florida” houses that often incorporate a Spanish flavor to spacious contemporary homes. Those building new homes in the area have a range of style choices, and contractors frequently build entire communities around a specific design. While you can find dozens of designs, five are everywhere, from North Florida to Miami.
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Contemporary
With their large windows and light, bright interiors, contemporary homes are one of the most requested styles. Whether clients are searching for existing houses or building from scratch, the clean lines of these designs have broad appeal.
For example, contractors building new homes in clermont fl, often choose contemporary styling. Houses take advantage of beautiful views and have a coastal flair. They often have attractive stucco finishes and lots of space for families.
Contemporary homes typically include elements of other styles. Although houses rarely have touches found on historic Florida homes, they borrow from modern architecture.
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Mediterranean
Mediterranean homes, with their low-pitched tiled roofs and stucco walls, are trendy in Florida. According to Architectural Ideas, the designs are rooted in Spanish Colonial and Revival designs.
Houses generally include symmetrical facades, arches, and intricate door surrounds. Parapet walls feature tile capping, and beautiful wrought iron detailing is often used in windows and balconies.
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Spanish
Spanish-style homes are what many people often envision when they think of Florida. The houses have a unique look that takes advantage of the natural climate and landscape.
Spanish houses are easily recognizable by their clay tiles, flat roofs, and terracotta additions, details also found in Mediterranean homes. Many designs include extras such as small balconies and wooden casements.
Houses have stucco exteriors and tile roofs. Per Florida Homes and Living, round and geometric features are also common. Stone floors and walls, wrought iron detailing, and wood-beamed ceilings are also elements of this historic and beloved design.
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Ranch Style
Many Florida newcomers are surprised to learn that Florida has a great deal of farmland. Not only is the state known for its miles of orange groves, but local growers produce sugarcane, tomatoes, strawberries, and watermelons. As a result of this rich agricultural heritage, modern farmhouse and ranch style-homes are popular.
Homes typically have one or two stories, a big front porch, and low-pitched roofs. They may be brick or wood and have elaborate door and window trim.
The interiors are large and airy, with high ceilings. Houses are typically surrounded by quite a bit of land.
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Coastal
Often located near the beach, coastal homes may be built on elevated foundations. They typically include wide eaves, front porches, and plenty of wood features. Homes are made to take advantage of the State’s climate and beauty. They have a vacation-home vibe, from their locations to their decor.
Interiors include open floor plans that allow owners to appreciate beautiful views. Houses are often built near the water and are designed to maximize airflow and cool breezes. Floor-to-ceiling windows are one of the most recognizable features of coastal homes.
Florida has a rich cultural heritage and almost as many miles of farmland as coastline, resulting in diverse architectural styles. Spanish, Mediterranean, Coastal, Ranch, and Contemporary home designs are some of the regions’ most popular.