Historic homes are a part of any culture. They are typically large, expansive, and ornate. They are the downtown pride of cities and towns nationwide. And it is not just their age that makes these homes prime candidates for preservation, touring, and even museums. There are many features that help the historic home stand out among rows of modern houses.

Different historic homes have different architectural characteristics and all stand out individually in their own right. According to OldHouses.com, here are some popular home styles and their stand-out features:

Colonial Style homes were popular in the years leading up to the American Revolution and are a mix of French, Spanish, and English architecture. Colonial style homes are known for:

• Symmetry. Intricately framed and noticeably square, the uniformity and detail are well-known.
• Entryways. Entryways are key to colonial style. Look for decorative crowns above the front door and narrow side windows surrounding.
• Columns, Columns, Columns. Perhaps the most notable feature of many historic homes, columns are innately Greek. From small entries to large porches, decorative columns often define the facade of the home.

Romantic Style homes embrace the Greek, Gothic, and Italian styles. They are subsequently very appealing to the eye and entail some of our favorite historic homes.

• Steeply Pitched Roofs. These dramatically steep roofs are often adorned with anything from pinnacles to battlements to parapets. It makes one wonder how Santa ever managed during this period in history.
• Decorative Pilasters and Moldings. The front of Romantic or National style homes are decked out and visually stimulating. Intricate pilasters project out from the walls and bold, or simple, moldings adorn all edges.
• Symmetry and Asymmetry. Gothic and Italian homes are more likely to be asymmetrical and obvious about it, while Greek homes will stick with the symmetry common among Colonial homes.

Victorian Style homes were built in the era of industrialization and therefore introduced some new architectural techniques.

• Steep Roofs. Victorians also enjoyed steep roofs but they used innovations to create oddly-shaped roofs with hips and dominant gables.
• Textured Shingles and Siding are an attempt by the designers to avoid commonality. New innovations allowed architects to experiment, let’s say, by steering clear of a smooth-walled appearance.
• Large, Asymmetrical Porch. Victorian porches are big and often wrap around to the side of the house. They do not necessarily follow any symmetrical pattern. These are certainly a favorite feature for many, and easily recognizable.

These are just a few examples of historic home styles and their many distinctive features. Note that these features are all exterior features that you might see taking a walk in downtown Philadelphia. Historic homes are also very intricately designed on the interior and if you ever get the chance to tour one, check it out. You can also visit OldHouses.com for more examples of historic homes, including photos and links.

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