Old Florida style house plans are a unique blend of architectural styles that have been popular in the Sunshine State for over a century. These plans typically feature large porches, high ceilings, and open floor plans, which are all designed to take advantage of Florida’s warm climate and beautiful scenery. One of the most iconic examples of an Old Florida style house is the Cracker house, which is a simple, wooden structure with a raised porch and a tin roof.
Today, Old Florida style house plans are still popular, and they can be found in a variety of sizes and styles. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Cracker house or a more modern interpretation, there’s an Old Florida style house plan that’s perfect for you.
In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the history of Old Florida style house plans, discuss the different types of plans that are available, and provide tips on how to choose the right plan for your needs.
When choosing an Old Florida style house plan, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Size: Old Florida style houses can range in size from small cottages to large mansions.
- Style: There are many different styles of Old Florida houses, including Cracker houses, Mediterranean Revival houses, and Key West style houses.
- Porches: Porches are an essential feature of Old Florida style houses. They provide a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Ceilings: Old Florida style houses typically have high ceilings, which help to keep the house cool in the summer.
- Windows: Old Florida style houses often have large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
- Doors: Old Florida style houses typically have wide doors that open onto the porch.
- Roofs: Old Florida style houses often have metal roofs, which are durable and can withstand hurricanes.
- Exterior: Old Florida style houses are often painted in light colors, such as white or yellow.
- Landscaping: Old Florida style houses are often surrounded by lush landscaping, including palm trees and flowers.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose an Old Florida style house plan that is perfect for your needs.
Size: Old Florida style houses can range in size from small cottages to large mansions.
Old Florida style houses come in a variety of sizes, from small cottages to large mansions. The size of the house will depend on the number of bedrooms and bathrooms needed, as well as the desired level of luxury. Small cottages are typically around 1,000 square feet and have two or three bedrooms and one or two bathrooms. Medium-sized houses are typically around 2,000 square feet and have three or four bedrooms and two or three bathrooms. Large mansions can be over 5,000 square feet and have five or more bedrooms and four or more bathrooms.
When choosing the size of an Old Florida style house, it is important to consider the needs of the family. A small cottage may be sufficient for a couple or a small family, while a large mansion may be more appropriate for a large family or for someone who wants to entertain guests frequently.
The size of the house will also affect the cost of construction. Small cottages are typically less expensive to build than large mansions. However, the cost of construction will also depend on the materials used and the level of detail in the design.
Overall, the size of an Old Florida style house is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best size for a particular family will depend on their individual needs and budget.
Style: There are many different styles of Old Florida houses, including Cracker houses, Mediterranean Revival houses, and Key West style houses.
Old Florida style houses come in a variety of styles, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Cracker houses: Cracker houses are simple, wooden structures with a raised porch and a tin roof. They were originally built by early settlers in Florida, and they are still popular today for their durability and affordability.
- Mediterranean Revival houses: Mediterranean Revival houses are inspired by the architecture of Spain and Italy. They typically have stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and wrought-iron balconies.
- Key West style houses: Key West style houses are known for their bright colors, gingerbread trim, and wraparound porches. They were originally built by wealthy residents of Key West in the late 19th century.
- Other styles: In addition to these three main styles, there are many other styles of Old Florida houses, including Victorian, Colonial, and Art Deco houses.
When choosing a style for an Old Florida house, it is important to consider the desired look and feel of the home. Cracker houses are a good choice for those who want a simple and affordable home, while Mediterranean Revival houses are a good choice for those who want a more luxurious home. Key West style houses are a good choice for those who want a home with a tropical flair.
Overall, the style of an Old Florida house is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best style for a particular home will depend on the owner’s individual taste.
Porches are an essential feature of Old Florida style houses. They provide a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and they can also help to keep the house cool in the summer. There are many different types of porches, each with its own unique advantages.
- Wraparound porches: Wraparound porches are one of the most popular types of porches for Old Florida style houses. They extend around two or more sides of the house, providing ample space for relaxing and entertaining. Wraparound porches are also a great way to take advantage of views of the surrounding landscape.
- Screened porches: Screened porches are another popular option for Old Florida style houses. They are enclosed by screens, which keep out insects and other pests while still allowing fresh air to circulate. Screened porches are a great place to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about bugs.
- Covered porches: Covered porches are a good choice for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the sun or rain. Covered porches can be attached to the house or freestanding, and they can be screened or unscreened.
- Balconies: Balconies are a great way to add extra space to an Old Florida style house. They can be located on the second story or higher, and they provide a great place to relax and enjoy the views.
When choosing a porch for an Old Florida style house, it is important to consider the desired use of the space. Wraparound porches and screened porches are great for entertaining, while covered porches and balconies are a good choice for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the weather.
Ceilings: Old Florida style houses typically have high ceilings, which help to keep the house cool in the summer.
High ceilings are a common feature of Old Florida style houses. They help to keep the house cool in the summer by allowing hot air to rise and escape through the attic. High ceilings also make the house feel more spacious and airy.
- Benefits of high ceilings:
High ceilings offer a number of benefits, including:– They help to keep the house cool in the summer.
– They make the house feel more spacious and airy.
– They can improve air circulation.
– They can make the house more energy efficient.
– They can add value to the home. - Drawbacks of high ceilings:
High ceilings also have some drawbacks, including:– They can make the house more difficult to heat in the winter.
– They can make it more difficult to reach light fixtures and ceiling fans.
– They can add to the cost of construction. - Choosing the right ceiling height:
When choosing the right ceiling height for an Old Florida style house, it is important to consider the climate, the size of the house, and the desired look and feel of the home. In general, higher ceilings are better suited for warm climates and larger homes. However, lower ceilings can be more energy efficient and easier to heat in the winter. - Other ways to keep a house cool in the summer:
In addition to high ceilings, there are a number of other ways to keep an Old Florida style house cool in the summer, including:– Installing ceiling fans.
– Using window treatments to block out the sun.
– Planting trees and shrubs around the house to provide shade.
– Using energy-efficient appliances.
– Sealing air leaks around windows and doors.
By following these tips, you can keep your Old Florida style house cool and comfortable all summer long.
Windows: Old Florida style houses often have large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
Benefits of large windows:
Large windows offer a number of benefits, including:
– They let in plenty of natural light, which can help to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
– They can make the house feel more spacious and airy.
– They can provide views of the surrounding landscape.
– They can help to improve air circulation.
– They can add value to the home.
Drawbacks of large windows:
Large windows also have some drawbacks, including:
– They can make the house more difficult to heat in the winter.
– They can make the house more difficult to cool in the summer.
– They can increase the risk of damage from hurricanes and other storms.
– They can reduce privacy.
Choosing the right window size:
When choosing the right window size for an Old Florida style house, it is important to consider the climate, the size of the house, and the desired look and feel of the home. In general, larger windows are better suited for warm climates and larger homes. However, smaller windows can be more energy efficient and easier to heat and cool.
Other ways to let in natural light:
In addition to large windows, there are a number of other ways to let in natural light to an Old Florida style house, including:
– Using skylights.
– Installing French doors.
– Using transom windows.
– Painting the interior of the house in light colors.
– Using mirrors to reflect light.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Old Florida style house is filled with natural light.
Doors: Old Florida style houses typically have wide doors that open onto the porch.
Doors are an important part of any home, but they are especially important in Old Florida style houses. Wide doors that open onto the porch are a hallmark of this architectural style, and they serve a number of important functions.
- Wide doors allow for easy access to the porch.
The porch is an essential part of an Old Florida style house, and it is important to be able to easily access it from the inside of the home. Wide doors make it easy to bring furniture and other items onto the porch, and they also make it easy to enjoy the outdoors without having to go through a narrow doorway.
- Wide doors help to create a sense of indoor-outdoor living.
Old Florida style houses are designed to take advantage of the warm climate, and wide doors help to create a sense of indoor-outdoor living. When the doors are open, the porch becomes an extension of the living space, and it is easy to move from one area to the other.
- Wide doors can improve ventilation.
Wide doors can help to improve ventilation in an Old Florida style house. When the doors are open, air can flow freely through the house, which helps to keep it cool and comfortable.
- Wide doors can add to the curb appeal of a home.
Wide doors can add to the curb appeal of an Old Florida style house. They give the house a more inviting and welcoming appearance, and they can help to make the house stand out from the others in the neighborhood.
If you are planning to build an Old Florida style house, be sure to include wide doors that open onto the porch. This is an important feature of this architectural style, and it will help to create a home that is both beautiful and functional.
Roofs: Old Florida style houses often have metal roofs, which are durable and can withstand hurricanes.
Durability: Metal roofs are one of the most durable roofing materials available. They are resistant to fire, rot, and insects, and they can withstand high winds and heavy rains. Metal roofs can also last for 50 years or more, which is significantly longer than other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles.
Hurricane resistance: Metal roofs are also very resistant to hurricanes. They are not easily damaged by high winds or flying debris, and they can help to protect the home from water damage. In fact, metal roofs are often required by building codes in hurricane-prone areas.
Energy efficiency: Metal roofs can also be energy efficient. They reflect the sun’s heat, which can help to keep the home cooler in the summer. Metal roofs can also be coated with a special reflective coating, which can further improve their energy efficiency.
Cost: Metal roofs are more expensive than some other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles. However, they can be a good investment in the long run, as they can last for many years and require less maintenance.
If you are planning to build an Old Florida style house, you should consider using a metal roof. Metal roofs are durable, hurricane resistant, energy efficient, and can add value to your home.
Exterior: Old Florida style houses are often painted in light colors, such as white or yellow.
The exterior of an Old Florida style house is just as important as the interior. The right paint color can enhance the home’s architectural features and create a welcoming atmosphere. Light colors are often used on Old Florida style houses because they reflect the sunlight and help to keep the house cool in the warm climate.
White is a classic choice for Old Florida style houses. It is a versatile color that can be paired with any trim color. White also helps to make the house look larger and more spacious. Yellow is another popular choice for Old Florida style houses. It is a cheerful color that adds a touch of warmth to the home. Yellow also pairs well with other colors, such as green and blue.
In addition to white and yellow, other light colors that are often used on Old Florida style houses include beige, cream, and light gray. These colors are all neutral colors that can be paired with a variety of trim colors. Neutral colors also help to create a timeless look that will never go out of style.
When choosing a paint color for your Old Florida style house, it is important to consider the overall style of the home. The paint color should complement the home’s architectural features and create the desired atmosphere. Light colors are a good choice for Old Florida style houses because they reflect the sunlight and help to keep the house cool. They also create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
In addition to paint color, there are a number of other exterior features that can enhance the look of an Old Florida style house. These features include:
- Porches: Porches are an essential feature of Old Florida style houses. They provide a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Porches can be screened in to keep out insects, or they can be left open to enjoy the breeze.
- Balconies: Balconies are another popular feature of Old Florida style houses. They provide a place to relax and enjoy the views. Balconies can be located on the second story or higher, and they can be screened in or left open.
- Exterior trim: Exterior trim can add a touch of detail and elegance to an Old Florida style house. Trim can be used to accentuate the windows, doors, and eaves of the home. Trim can be painted in a contrasting color to create a more dramatic look, or it can be painted the same color as the house for a more subtle look.
Landscaping: Old Florida style houses are often surrounded by lush landscaping, including palm trees and flowers.
Landscaping is an important part of any home, but it is especially important for Old Florida style houses. The right landscaping can enhance the home’s architectural features and create a welcoming atmosphere. Lush landscaping can also help to keep the home cool in the warm climate.
- Palm trees: Palm trees are a classic symbol of Florida, and they are often used in landscaping Old Florida style houses. Palm trees add a touch of tropical flair to the home, and they can also provide shade from the sun. There are many different types of palm trees that can be used in landscaping, so you can choose the ones that best suit your taste and the style of your home.
- Flowers: Flowers are another important part of landscaping Old Florida style houses. Flowers add a touch of color and beauty to the home, and they can also attract butterflies and other wildlife. There are many different types of flowers that can be used in landscaping, so you can choose the ones that best suit your taste and the climate in your area.
- Other plants: In addition to palm trees and flowers, there are a number of other plants that can be used in landscaping Old Florida style houses. These plants include shrubs, trees, and groundcovers. Shrubs can be used to create hedges or borders, trees can be used to provide shade or privacy, and groundcovers can be used to fill in bare spots in the landscape.
- Lighting: Lighting is an important part of landscaping any home, and it is especially important for Old Florida style houses. Lighting can be used to highlight the home’s architectural features and create a welcoming atmosphere. There are many different types of lighting that can be used in landscaping, so you can choose the ones that best suit your taste and the style of your home.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape for your Old Florida style house.
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