Colonial Home Exterior Guide for Virginia

Are you struggling to capture the timeless elegance of a Colonial home exterior? Many homeowners find it challenging to combine historical charm with modern functionality. The symmetrical facades, central entrances, and classic materials like wood, brick, or stone can be difficult to replicate without expert guidance. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate these complexities and achieve the perfect look for your Colonial home exterior.

At Commonwealth Contractors, we specialize in bringing the beauty of Colonial architecture to life. Our team understands the importance of historical accuracy and modern practicality, ensuring that your Colonial home exterior is both stunning and functional. With our expertise, you can transform your home into a masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Ready to dive in and discover how to create a breathtaking Colonial home exterior? In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential elements, from symmetrical facades and central entrances to classic materials and uniform windows and doors. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to achieve this iconic look.

What is a Colonial Style House Exterior?

When you think of traditional American homes, the Colonial style often comes to mind. These homes are known for their elegant symmetry and timeless appeal. Imagine walking up to a house with a perfectly balanced facade, where the front door is centrally located and flanked by evenly spaced windows. This symmetrical design creates a welcoming and stately appearance that is both simple and sophisticated.

Using a design-build construction approach, you can effectively create the Colonial-style home of your dreams. This method integrates the design and construction processes, ensuring every detail—from symmetrical facades to classic materials—is meticulously planned and executed. By adopting this approach, you save time, reduce costs, and guarantee historical accuracy tailored to your preferences.

Colonial-style homes, often constructed with classic materials like wood, stone, and brick, reflect the architectural spirit of early America.For more insights, check out our comprehensive Design-Build Construction Guide.

Unveiling the Key Elements of Colonial Architecture

Incorporate the timeless charm and historical significance of Colonial architecture into your home design! This guide explores the essential elements that define this enduring style:

• Balanced Symmetry: Colonial exteriors showcase a symmetrical shape, typically square or rectangular, for a sense of formality and visual harmony. This translates to evenly spaced windows, doors, and overall design.
• Five Windows in Harmony: Five rectangular windows grace the front facade of Colonial homes, contributing to the balanced and classic look. This uniformity reflects the emphasis on order and proportion in Colonial design.
• Central Entrance Makes a Statement: A central entrance with a decorative pediment and flanking pilasters or columns creates a grand focal point. This central door with traditional details like brass hardware and lanterns enhances the symmetrical facade and adds a welcoming touch.
• Classic Materials for Enduring Style: Colonial homes are traditionally built with durable materials like wood, stone, and brick. These materials offer timeless appeal and reflect the practicality of early American settlers. Look for wooden clapboards, brick facades, and stone foundations for an authentic aesthetic.
• Additional Elements for Character:
  • Gabled Roofs: Steeply pitched gabled roofs are a classic feature, promoting water runoff and adding structural integrity.
  • Functional Shutters: Enhance the symmetrical look and add a touch of charm with shutters, often in contrasting colors.
  • Prominent Chimneys: Central chimneys or pairs on either side are prominent features, reflecting both practicality and historical significance.

Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Colonial Home

Achieving an authentic Colonial home exterior relies heavily on selecting the ideal color palette. While the classic white with black shutters remains a popular choice, there are several period-appropriate options to explore:

• Timeless Elegance: White with Black Shutters: This iconic combination exudes sophistication. The crisp white exterior creates a clean base, while black shutters provide striking contrast.
• Warm Welcome with Earth Tones: Embrace a warm and inviting aesthetic with rich earth tones. Deep reds, browns, and greens beautifully complement the natural materials like wood and brick often used in Colonial architecture.
• Subtle Sophistication with Muted Pastels: Introduce a touch of color while maintaining a traditional feel with muted pastels. Explore pale yellow, light blue, or soft gray for a classic look with a hint of personality.

Beyond these options, consider these factors when selecting your Colonial color palette:

• Regional Influences: Color preferences in Colonial times varied by region. Research prevalent colors in your area's Colonial architecture for historical accuracy.
• Architectural Details: The style of your Colonial home (e.g., Georgian, Federal) may influence suitable color choices.
• Personal Preference: While staying true to the Colonial period, don't be afraid to personalize your palette! Choose colors you love that complement your home's architectural details.

Landscaping Inspiration for Colonial Homes

Want your Colonial home to be the star of the block? The right landscaping can make all the difference. For a visual guide to help you get inspired, visit Houzz for stunning examples of Colonial home landscapes. Here's how to create that picture-perfect scene that whispers history:

Double the Delight with Mirrored Garden

Ditch the random plantings. Colonial gardens are all about balance. Think twin flowerbeds flanking a central walkway, or matching shrubs on either side of your porch. It's simple and oh-so-charming!

Blooms All Year Round

Perennials are your new best friends. These beauties come back year after year, with minimal fuss. Lavender and rosemary not only add color, but their lovely scents will fill your air. Plus, they were commonly used in Colonial times, giving your yard a touch of historical authenticity.

Frame Your Home with Flowers

Flowering trees are like nature's spotlight for your Colonial gem. Plant dogwoods, magnolias, or cherry trees to add bursts of color throughout the seasons. Imagine the springtime magic of pink blossoms against your historic backdrop – pure postcard perfection!

Indoor Meets Outdoor Oasis

Unlike sprawling modern gardens, Colonial landscapes hug the house for a cozy feel. This creates a seamless flow, making it easy to step from your living room right into your outdoor haven. Picture yourself enjoying a cup of tea on the patio, surrounded by your beautiful, well-maintained garden – a true escape!

How To Bring Colonial Exteriors to Life

Enhancing the exterior of your Colonial home with thoughtful touches can significantly boost its curb appeal and historical charm. Incorporate symmetrical landscaping, classic lighting fixtures, and period-appropriate architectural details to create a cohesive and inviting look. By focusing on these elements, you can ensure your home stands out while staying true to its Colonial roots.

Evoking History with Lighting

• Embrace the Classics: Lantern-style fixtures with wrought iron frames and clear glass panes provide a warm, inviting glow. See more on Urban Ambiance.
• Elegance Meets Functionality: Wall sconces flank your entryway or adorn exterior walls, offering a welcoming glow and highlighting architectural details. Learn more about choosing sconces from The Spruce.
• Pathfinders with Sophistication: Line walkways and driveways with post lights for a guiding light and timeless elegance.
• Accenting Architectural Gems: Pendant lights on your porch illuminate and draw attention to architectural features. 

Colonial Front Door Design Ideas

• Classic Panel Doors: These doors feature multiple panels and can be painted in contrasting colors for character. Explore more ideas on here.
• Decorative Crowns and Pediments: A crown or pediment above the door adds a traditional and elegant touch.
• Symmetrical Side Lights: Narrow windows on either side of the door add symmetry and natural light. 
• Traditional Hardware: Brass or iron handles, knockers, and hinges complete the authentic look. Learn more on HGTV.

Window Treatments for Colonial Homes

Enhancing your Colonial home's windows with period-appropriate treatments and styles can significantly boost its historical charm and functionality. Here are some key options to consider:

• Double-Hung Windows: A timeless choice with two sashes that slide up and down. These windows were common in colonial times for their practicality and aesthetic appeal. Learn more about double-hung windows from Fine Homebuilding.
• Shutters: Add visual interest and provide privacy and protection. Shutters were originally functional, protecting windows from storms and providing insulation. Today, they remain a quintessential element of Colonial home exteriors.
• Window Grilles: Decorative elements divide the window glass into smaller panes. This mimics the historical style where large panes of glass were not available, adding historical authenticity and sophistication.
• Curtains and Drapes: Simple, classic designs in neutral colors work best. These window treatments enhance the overall aesthetic without overpowering the historical charm of your Colonial home.

Roofing Options that Complement Your Colonial Home

Choosing the right roofing materials is crucial for maintaining the historical integrity and visual appeal of your Colonial home. Here are some suitable options:

• Wood Shakes and Shingles: Offer a rustic, natural look. They were widely used in the past for their availability and practicality. 
• Slate: Provides a classic, elegant appearance and durability. Slate roofs have been a popular choice for centuries, especially in high-end Colonial homes.
• Metal: Mimics traditional materials and offers increased durability and efficiency. Modern metal roofs blend historical aesthetics with modern performance.
• Asphalt Shingles: Cost-effective and can resemble wood or slate. Asphalt shingles offer versatility and ease of installation, making them a popular choice for many Colonial homes. 

Modern Twists for Your Colonial Home

Colonial homes embody timeless elegance, but incorporating modern touches can create a fresh look without sacrificing their traditional charm. Here's how to breathe new life into your abode while respecting its history:

Embrace Bold Accents:

• Pops of Color: Don't be afraid of a bold statement! Paint your front door or shutters in a vibrant hue like red, blue, or green to create a striking contrast against the classic lines of your Colonial home.
• Modern Furniture: Update your outdoor space with contemporary seating. Choose pieces with clean lines and sleek designs that complement the traditional architecture. Imagine comfortable conversation areas where you can relax and entertain in style.

• Hardwood Floors: Sand and refinish or apply a fresh coat to restore and enhance the beauty of your floors. This quick process can be completed in just 1-2 days and provides a major upgrade to your interior, making a great first impression.

• Modern Living Spaces: Adding a small office, comfortable seating, or entertainment areas can make the living room more functional and inviting​. For more tips, check out our Living Room Remodel Design Guide.

• Open Concept Layouts: Tear down walls to create an open floor plan, making the home feel larger and more connected. This renovation opens up the space, allowing for better flow and connectivity throughout the house.
• Smart Home Technology: Integrate smart home devices, such as automated lighting, thermostats, and security systems, to blend modern convenience with historic charm.
• Sustainable Landscaping: Use native plants and eco-friendly materials in your landscaping to enhance the exterior while promoting sustainability and reducing maintenance efforts.

Preserving the Past:

While embracing modern touches, remember the importance of maintaining your Colonial home's historical charm and value:

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for your home's exterior - cleaning, painting, and repairing any damage. A well-maintained home not only looks beautiful but also retains its value.
• Historical Accuracy: Research the original design elements and materials used in Colonial homes. This ensures any updates or renovations align with the traditional style, preserving the historical integrity of your abode.
• Authentic Materials: Whenever possible, opt for materials commonly used in Colonial architecture. Think wood, stone, brick, and traditional hardware. These elements lend authenticity and enhance the charm of your historic home.
• Consult Professionals: Consider seeking guidance from historical home restoration professionals. Their expertise can be invaluable in maintaining the authenticity of your Colonial home while incorporating modern touches that complement its timeless beauty.

Choose Commonwealth Contractors for Your Colonial Build

Selecting the right contractor is crucial when aiming to achieve the perfect Colonial home exterior. Commonwealth Contractors is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that honor the historical charm and functionality of Colonial architecture. Here's why choosing Commonwealth Contractors is the best decision for your Colonial build:

• Expert Knowledge in Colonial Architecture: At Commonwealth Contractors, we specialize in Colonial architecture, ensuring your home's design remains true to its historical roots. Our team understands the key elements that define this style, such as symmetrical facades, central entrances, and the use of classic materials like wood, brick, and stone.
• High-Quality Craftsmanship: Attention to detail is our hallmark. We pride ourselves on high-quality craftsmanship, using the finest materials and techniques to ensure that every aspect of your home is constructed to the highest standards. This commitment to quality ensures durability and beauty.
• Custom Design Services: Every home has its unique character, and we offer custom design services to meet your specific needs. Whether restoring an existing home or building a new one, our team works with you to create a design that reflects your vision while adhering to architectural principles.
• Comprehensive Project Management: From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, we provide comprehensive project management to ensure your build runs smoothly. We handle every aspect, coordinating with suppliers, managing timelines, and ensuring all work meets the highest standards.
• Transparent Communication: Clear and consistent communication is key to a successful build. We keep you informed at every stage, providing regular updates and addressing any questions or concerns. This transparency builds trust and ensures the final result meets your expectations.
• Proven Track Record: With a portfolio of successfully completed projects, we have a proven track record of delivering exceptional results. Our satisfied clients attest to our professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence.

Visit Commonwealth Contractors to learn more about their services and view their portfolio.