When you visualize your dream home, what do you see? Is it modern and sleek, a cozy bungalow or a more stately Victorian abode? Do you want a split level, two stories, or do you want to keep it all on one main level? When it comes to Denver architecture, the possibilities are as unique as your personal vision.
Maybe you don’t have anything in mind yet and are looking for some inspiration. This article will show off some of the best that Denver architecture has to offer. These are the ten most popular home styles in Denver.
- The Bungalow: A Denver Architecture Staple
Their popularity is for good reason too. Typically one story, these smaller homes feel cozy all year round with their wood trim and pitched roofs. Plus, the covered front porch is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, rain or shine.
The porch coverings can block some sunshine from the front windows, but proper indoor lighting will keep your bungalow feeling bright and cozy.
The open floor plan of most bungalows makes the most of the modest space. Plus, some feature small second story dormers to add a bit of extra square footage and privacy.
While bungalows can be found all throughout Denver, some great examples can be found in the Highlands and West Highlands.
- Victorian Homes Bring High-Class Sophistication
Generally on the larger side, Victorian homes tend to be two or even three stories. Bright colors and decorative trim give them a unique appearance, both whimsical and sophisticated. Plus, their wraparound porches add a good deal of outdoor space.
People owning these homes appreciate the exterior vintage appeal but have added to the interior charm with tasteful 21st century updates.
- Denver Square: Uniquely Denver Architecture
Much as its name would suggest, these two or two-and-a-half story homes are square-shaped, with the width matching the height. Inside, the floors are divided into quarters, giving the entire house a symmetrical and well-ordered feeling.
Their simple floor plans also makes them well-suited to updating and remodeling, so if you’ve got a particular vision in mind for your home, a Denver Square could be your perfect canvas.
- A Tudor Fairytale
They have a vaguely Medieval appearance, though the Tudor style homes in Denver date to the beginning of the 20th century.
Tudor homes work well in Denver since their roofs are well adapted to the snow and rain. And the beautiful chimneys characteristic of Tudor homes practically beg for a cozy fire on winter evenings.
In Denver, however, Tudor homes tend to come with a hefty price tag. They’re mostly found in Hilltop, Belcaro, Montclair, Park Hill and Whittier, which tend to be higher-end neighborhoods.
- Sleek Mid-Century Modern
The enormous windows most mid-century modern homes sport provide great views and tons of natural light, keeping your home bright and airy.
- Grand Colonial Revival Style
Designed to be formal but not pretentious or imposing, Colonial Revival style homes reflect quiet order. Generally symmetrical or square, these homes generally have evenly spaced windows and the front door is dead center in the front of the house.
Often two or three stories, the most dramatic and noticeable element of Colonial Revival architecture is the use of columns, giving the homes a slightly Classical appearance.
- Laid-Back Living with Ranch Styles
With functionality in mind, ranch homes generally come with garages. Plus, they tend to be easy to renovate and update to suit your needs and tastes.
- Classic Cape Cod Charm
Their charming exteriors generally feature wood siding and multi-pane windows, along with steeply sloping roofs.
- Craftsman Makes a Comeback
Most Craftsman homes include lots of interior woodwork, such as built-in shelving, framed windows and rich fireplace mantels.
- Go New with Contemporary/Modern Row Homes
Even more so than the modern style, contemporary homes tend to incorporate asymmetrical features and the bold use of line and glass.
A great feature of contemporary homes is their focus on building for sustainability. Many builders make use of recycled materials, and design for comfort along with energy efficiency. They tend to include expansive windows for natural lighting.
Plus, contemporary homes don’t carry the same maintenance problems associated with some older homes.
