Maine, the “Pine Tree State,” offers a stunning coastline, lush forests, and charming small towns. From the bustling city of Portland to the picturesque Acadia National Park, Maine has plenty of beautiful cities, great activities, and diverse recreational options for anyone wanting to move to the state. If you’re considering buying a home in Maine, there are plenty of home styles to choose from whether you’re searching for a cozy coastal cottage or a log cabin in the mountains.
At Redfin, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 most common Maine home styles you’re likely to find, whether you’re looking to buy a home in Bangor or a vacation cottage in Bar Harbor. Let’s explore some iconic Maine-style homes.
1) Beach cottage
Cottages are a quintessential Maine home style – especially if you’re looking for a beachfront property. Beach cottages typically feature a bright and airy design with light-colored wood siding or shingles. There are large windows that let in plenty of natural light, and a wrap-around porch or deck for enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Inside, you’ll find a cozy living space with a fireplace or wood stove, nautical-themed décor, and comfortable furnishings perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach. While the layout may be smaller, beach cottages offer all the amenities you need for a comfortable coastal lifestyle.
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2) Cape Cod
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Recognizable and cherished across the country, Cape Cod houses feature a symmetrical design, steep pitched roof with triangular areas, and a large chimney. These homes typically offer an open floor plan with two-to-three bedrooms and lots of windows to bring in natural light. While most Cape Cod homes are single-story, you can also find multi-story versions. Additionally, the exterior of these homes have cedar shingles, brick, stucco, or stone. This only adds to the charm, regardless of where you’re looking to buy a home in in Maine.
3) Colonial
Colonial homes are some of the oldest home styles found in the US. They date back to the early 1600s and, unsurprisingly, come in a vast range of architectural styles. No matter what style of Colonial home you’re looking at in Maine, they share common features. Expect to see a two-story design, steep gable or gambrel roof, and a central fireplace. The exteriors of Colonial homes are typically made of stone, wood, or brick, and have a symmetrical window design on the façade. You’ll often find bedrooms on the upper levels while the formal living and dining rooms are located on the first floor.
4) Contemporary
Contemporary homes are a popular choice for those looking for a modern home in Maine. With an emphasis on simplicity and function, these homes feature clean lines and an uncluttered aesthetic. Natural light floods the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying Maine’s scenic beauty. Materials like glass, steel, and concrete blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious and modern feel.
5) Craftsman
Craftsman homes in Maine have a distinctive and charming style, with natural materials and earthy colors that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. These homes often feature a prominent front porch, tapered columns, and exposed rafters. Inside, you’ll find open floor plans, built-in cabinetry, and an emphasis on function over form. This Maine style home is perfect for those who appreciate a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a touch of rustic charm.
6) Log cabin
Log cabins in Maine are a popular type of rustic home. They have a natural look and feel, with rough-hewn logs and exposed beams. Many log cabins in Maine feature stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. They’re located in wooded areas or near lakes and bodies of water, providing residents with a peaceful and tranquil retreat. You can also find these homes located in some of the affordable places to live in Maine.
7) Modern architecture
Modern architecture homes are an innovative and sleek home style that has made its way to Maine’s real estate market. With their emphasis on clean lines and functionality, these homes offer a minimalist design that still feels warm and welcoming. You’ll often find large windows that provide ample natural light. Home exteriors are a mix of materials like steel, concrete, and glass that give the home an industrial edge. The interior typically features an open floor plan with a focus on functionality, making it easy to live and entertain in this style of home.
8) New construction
New construction homes in Maine often incorporate traditional New England architecture. They have design elements like pitched roofs, dormer windows, and wrap-around porches. They may also feature modern amenities and energy-efficient technology. Many homes are sustainably built with locally-sourced materials, such as reclaimed wood and stone. New construction homes in Maine may also offer views of the state’s picturesque coastline, forests, and lakes.
9) Ranch
Ranch-style homes in Maine are typically one-story houses with a low-pitched roof and a long, rectangular shape that is oriented parallel to the street. They often have a simple and functional design, with open floor plans and large windows that provide plenty of natural light. Ranch homes are commonly have wood or brick exteriors, and may feature a front porch or a large deck for outdoor living. Many of these homes in Maine also have a garage or carport attached to the side of the house.
10) Victorian
In Maine, some of the popular types of Victorian homes include Queen Anne, Second Empire, and Gothic Revival. Queen Anne-style Victorian homes have an asymmetrical shape, multiple gables, and decorative details such as ornate spindle work, fish scale shingles, and turrets. Second Empire-style Victorian homes feature mansard roofs, dormer windows, and decorative brackets. Gothic Revival-style Victorian homes are known for their steeply pitched roofs, pointed arches, and intricate detailing, including gingerbread trim and lancet windows.
You can find these types of Victorian homes in many parts of Maine. They’re highly sought after with their architectural beauty and historic charm. There is also an emphasis on coastal style as many of these homes are located along the coastal Maine cities.
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