As you can imagine, Massachusetts is known for its picturesque coastline, vibrant city life, and storied past. From the bustling city of Boston to the charming town of Salem, Massachusetts has a city that fits any personality. If you’re considering buying a home in Massachusetts this year, there are plenty of historic and modern home styles to complement your needs. Whether you’re looking for a classic Cape Cod home or a modern ranch home, you can find all of these home styles and more in Massachusetts.
To guide you along the way, we at Redfin have compiled a list of 9 Massachusetts home styles you’re likely to find, whether you’re looking to buy a home in Weymouth or a coastal property in Plymouth. Let’s explore some classic Massachusetts-style homes.
1) Three-decker
Three-decker homes are a type of multi-family housing specific to Massachusetts, primarily found in the Boston area. They typically have three floors, with one apartment per floor, and a shared front porch or deck. These homes often feature exterior elements such as ornate trim, bay windows, and decorative brackets. Interiors often have high ceilings, hardwood floors, and classic architectural details such like moldings and wainscoting.
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2) Cape Cod
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With their iconic symmetrical design, steep pitched roof, and large chimney, Cape Cod homes are a popular and well-loved house style throughout the United States. It’s particularly popular in Massachusetts since its namesake city is located in the state. Typically single-story, these homes usually have two to three bedrooms and an open floor plan. There are numerous windows, so natural light floods in through the home – adding to the charm of these houses. Cedar shingles, brick, stucco, or stone exteriors are also typical of the Cape Cod style.
3) Colonial
The Colonial home style dates back to the early 1600s and is among the oldest home styles in the US. Although there are numerous variations of Colonial homes in different architectural styles, these homes share common features such as their two-story construction, sloped gable or gambrel roof, and large interior fireplace. Exteriors of Colonial homes often have stone, wood, or brick facades with symmetrical windows. As with many classic home styles, you’ll find a formal living and dining room on the first floor with bedrooms located on the second.
4) Contemporary
Another Massachusetts home style to know about is the contemporary home. These homes offer a sleek and modern aesthetic that’s both eye-catching and functional. With a focus on clean lines and open spaces, you’ll find lots of natural light and plenty of room to entertain. You’ll often find a mix of materials like metal, glass, and concrete, along with unique features like exposed ductwork and floating staircases.
5) Craftsman
Craftsman homes in Massachusetts are known for their charming and welcoming atmosphere. These homes often feature a warm color palette and a mix of natural materials like wood and stone. You’ll find unique touches like exposed beams, intricate woodwork, and built-in cabinetry. Craftsman homes are designed to be functional and comfortable, with open floor plans and cozy gathering spaces. Whether you’re looking for a bungalow or a larger Craftsman-style home, Massachusetts has plenty of options to choose from.
6) New construction
New construction homes in Massachusetts often feature a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. They typically have an open floor plan, focusing on natural light and energy efficiency. Many new homes incorporate modern amenities such as smart home technology and energy-efficient appliances. Home designs often take inspiration from the historic architecture of New England, with features like gabled roofs, dormer windows, and front porches.
7) Ranch
Ranch homes, also known as rambler homes, are single-story homes with an open and practical layout that gained popularity in the mid-20th century. Massachusetts ranch homes often feature a simple, rectangular shape with a low-pitched roofline. They typically have a wide, open living room and dining area, often with a fireplace as a focal point. These homes may also have a separate living room, multiple bedrooms, and bathrooms, as well as an attached garage. Ranch homes in Massachusetts come in a variety of architectural styles, like mid-century modern and traditional, and may incorporate elements of Cape Cod or Colonial design.
8) Tudor
If you’re drawn to the romantic and medieval aesthetic of Tudor architecture, you might consider a Tudor-style house. These homes are typically made of brick with white stucco and half-timbering details, inspired by England’s Tudor period. They often feature rounded doors, exposed beams, and a variety of unique window styles such as oriel, diamond-shaped panes, and tall, narrow windows. Tudor-style houses are usually two to three stories tall, making them perfect for those who appreciate plenty of space. These homes are often found in many of the affordable places to live in Massachusetts.
9) Victorian
Massachusetts has a rich history of Victorian architecture, specifically in the Stick-Eastlake, Queen Anne, Italianate, Second-Empire, and Richardsonian Romanesque. The Stick-Eastlake style is characterized by its use of woodwork, spindle work, and decorative brackets. Another is the Queen Anne style, which often features asymmetrical designs, ornate woodwork, and multi-colored paint schemes. The Italianate style, with its tall, narrow windows and decorative brackets, is also prevalent in Massachusetts. Other popular types include the Second Empire style, known for its mansard roofs, and the Richardsonian Romanesque style, featuring heavy stone construction and arches.
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