Top Architectural Home Styles in Somerset County

In 2023, Somerset County boasts a diverse array of stunning home styles, with Cape Cod, Colonial, and Ranch architectural designs emerging as the most coveted. The allure of these homes lies in their timeless elegance and practicality, reflecting a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary influences. From the charming simplicity of Cape Cod residences to the stately grace of Colonial structures and the easygoing one-story layout of Ranch-style abodes, Somerset County showcases a rich tapestry of architectural excellence that resonates with the preferences and lifestyles of its residents.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod style homes are a classic and enduring architectural design that originated in the early colonial settlements of New England in the 17th century. Known for their simplicity and practicality, Cape Cod homes typically feature steep-pitched roofs to handle heavy snowfall, symmetrical facades, and dormer windows that provide additional headroom in the upper levels. These homes are often one or one-and-a-half stories high, characterized by a central chimney, and have a rectangular shape. The exterior is commonly clad in clapboard or shingles, contributing to a quaint and charming aesthetic. Cape Cod homes have a timeless appeal and are well-suited to various settings, from coastal communities to suburban neighborhoods. Renowned for their cozy atmosphere and efficient use of space, Cape Cod style homes have endured for centuries and continue to be a popular choice for homeowners seeking a blend of historical charm and practical functionality.

Ranch 

Ranch style homes, also known as ranchers or California ranches, are a popular architectural design characterized by their single-story, horizontal layout and open floor plans. Originating in the United States in the 1920s, ranch homes gained widespread popularity in the post-World War II era, experiencing a boom in construction during the 1950s and 1960s. These homes typically feature a long, low profile with a simple and unembellished exterior. The design often includes a centrally located living space, bedrooms situated on one side of the house, and a garage on the other. Ranch style homes are known for their integration with the surrounding landscape and are well-suited for both suburban and rural settings. Their single-level layout appeals to homeowners seeking accessibility and ease of mobility. While they may vary in architectural details, ranch homes are generally characterized by their emphasis on a casual, comfortable lifestyle and have become an enduring symbol of mid-century American residential architecture.

Colonial

Colonial style homes are characterized by their timeless elegance and classic symmetry, drawing inspiration from the architectural designs prevalent in the American colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries. Typically two or three stories high, these homes feature a central entrance door, often adorned with a decorative crown or pediment, flanked by evenly spaced windows on either side. The facades are commonly constructed with brick or wood, and the roofs are typically steeply pitched with gables. Colonial homes often boast a central chimney, reflecting the practicality of heating in the colder climates of the northeastern United States where this style originated. The interiors of colonial homes typically showcase a sense of formality, with a central hallway and balanced, symmetrical rooms on either side. This enduring architectural style has transcended centuries and continues to be cherished for its timeless charm and historical significance.