The distinction between Colonial and standard home styles is quite straightforward; Colonial refers to a specific kind of design, while conventional is a broader term encompassing several styles, including Colonial. Colonial architecture and interior decorating are inspired by the architecture and decor of the Colonial age in the us, which spanned around around 300 years, ending at the first- to mid-1800s.The many home fashions that fall under a conventional label have timeless designs with historic origins, leaving out only the very modern and modern fashions that appeared in the mid- to late-20th century.

Characteristics of Colonial Architecture

Colonial homes are symmetrical, with a centered front door and an equal quantity of windows on each side. A normal amount of windows showing on the front of the residence is nine: 2 on both sides of the doorway, 2 windows directly above the first story windows on the second story, and one directly above the doorway. Homes have a central chimney or just one on each end of the house. Inside the home, a central stairway contributes to upper bedrooms branching away from a central hall. These characteristics are typical of New England Colonial residences. Variations developed in different areas of the country, as stated by the dominant civilization in the region, like Spanish Colonial, Dutch Colonial and also French Colonial.

Additional Colonial Sub-Styles

Colonial decorating and architecture also changes by time periods. Styles changed during this 300-year-long era. Colonial style begins with the First Period or Post-Medieval English, from 1600 to 1700. Next came Georgian, from 1700 to 1780; followed by Federal, which ranged from 1780 to 1820; and indigenous Revival, from 1825 to 1860. Symmetry was a frequent element in all these fashions except early First Period residences, which had asymmetrical doors and window openings. Georgian architecture, named for the succession of English kings named George, was influenced by the European idea of gentility. Federal style also drew inspiration from European trends at the work of architect Robert Adam especially. Greek Revival architecture focused on Grecian door moldings and window columns and frames supporting porch roofs.

Traditional European Styles

Traditional European home styles draw inspiration from different countries, regions and time periods in Europe. Mediterranean style has influences from many countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea including Spain, France and Italy. French fashions range from formal to casual, together with the refined furniture of kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI, Baroque and Regency styles and the ever-popular French nation. Tuscan and Spanish Colonial or Hacienda styles can also be closely related to Mediterranean style, but they are more specifically focused on designs affected by these specific European regions. English styles like Tudor and English Cottage are commonly seen in deluxe suburbs and quaint country residences. Historical Victorian-style residences feature many Medieval European impacts paired with cottage-style elements leading to unique and in-depth architectural capabilities.

Traditional American Models

Although styles like Ranch and also Craftsmen seem to disprove that the all-American lifestyle and can be found scattered throughout the heartland of America, you will still find European impacts in this and any other style. Country-style residences include sub-styles like Cottage, Farmhouse, and Log or Lodge style residences. New American, yet another suburban home design suitable for big properties, borrows many conventional Colonial components but features largely asymmetrical facades and intricate roof lines with a number of gables in varying heights, similar to Victorian-style residences.