Small colonial house plans offer a charming and historically inspired approach to home design. Defined by their compact size, symmetrical facades, and classic architectural details, these plans embody the essence of early American architecture. From grand residences to cozy cottages, small colonial house plans have found enduring popularity as they combine aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
A prime example of a small colonial house plan is the Cape Cod cottage. This iconic New England home features a low-slung, rectangular shape, a central chimney, and a steeply pitched roof. Cape Cod cottages are known for their simplicity, energy efficiency, and timeless appeal. Other notable variations of colonial house plans include the Georgian style, characterized by its symmetrical facade and columned portico, and the Federal style, renowned for its delicate ornamentation and curved cornices.
In this article, we will explore the intricacies of small colonial house plans, examining their key features, variations, and the advantages they offer. We will also provide tips and insights to help you choose the perfect plan for your dream home.
When considering small colonial house plans, it’s essential to keep in mind several key points:
- Symmetrical facade
- Central chimney
- Steeply pitched roof
- Cape Cod, Georgian, Federal styles
- Compact size
- Practical functionality
- Timeless appeal
- Energy efficiency
- Charming aesthetics
Understanding these elements will help you make informed decisions when selecting a small colonial house plan that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Symmetrical facade
A defining characteristic of small colonial house plans is their symmetrical facade. This means that the front of the house is balanced and harmonious, with elements arranged in a mirror image on either side of a central axis. Symmetry creates a sense of order and proportion, lending a timeless and elegant aesthetic to the home.
The symmetrical facade typically features a central doorway flanked by windows on both sides. The windows are often arranged in pairs, with the same size and shape on each side of the door. This arrangement creates a sense of balance and visual appeal, drawing the eye to the center of the house.
In addition to the windows and door, other architectural elements may also be arranged symmetrically on the facade. For example, a pair of columns or pilasters may frame the doorway, or a triangular pediment may crown the entrance. These elements enhance the symmetry of the facade, adding depth and interest to the overall design.
The symmetrical facade of small colonial house plans not only contributes to their aesthetic appeal but also serves a functional purpose. By arranging the windows and other elements symmetrically, architects can ensure that the interior of the home is well-lit and balanced. This creates a comfortable and inviting living space, where natural light can flow evenly throughout the rooms.
Central chimney
Another key feature of small colonial house plans is the central chimney. The chimney is typically located in the center of the house, where it serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose.
Functionally, the central chimney provides a passage for smoke and gases from the fireplace or stove to escape. This is essential for maintaining good air quality and preventing smoke from filling the living space.
In addition to its functional purpose, the central chimney also plays an important role in the aesthetics of the home. It creates a strong vertical line that draws the eye upward, adding height and drama to the facade. The chimney may also be adorned with decorative elements such as brickwork patterns, corbels, or a chimney cap, which further enhance its visual appeal.
The central chimney is often a focal point of the interior of the home as well. It may be surrounded by a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting gathering space. The chimney breast, or the wall that surrounds the fireplace, can also be used as a decorative element, featuring elaborate moldings or built-in shelves.
Overall, the central chimney is an integral part of small colonial house plans, contributing both to the functionality and aesthetics of the home.
Steeply pitched roof
The steeply pitched roof is a defining characteristic of small colonial house plans. It is designed to shed water and snow effectively, making it well-suited for the often harsh weather conditions of New England and other regions where colonial architecture is prevalent.
The steep pitch of the roof is achieved by using rafters that are set at a sharp angle. This angle allows water and snow to slide off the roof quickly, preventing it from accumulating and causing damage. The steeply pitched roof also helps to create a spacious attic, which can be used for storage or converted into additional living space.
In addition to its practical benefits, the steeply pitched roof also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of small colonial house plans. It creates a sense of height and drama, drawing the eye upward and adding visual interest to the facade. The roof may also be adorned with decorative elements such as dormers, cupolas, or weather vanes, which further enhance its visual appeal.
Overall, the steeply pitched roof is an important element of small colonial house plans, contributing both to the functionality and aesthetics of the home.
Advantages of a steeply pitched roof:
- Effective shedding of water and snow
- Creation of a spacious attic
- Enhanced aesthetic appeal
- Increased durability and longevity
Disadvantages of a steeply pitched roof:
- Higher construction costs
- Potential for wind damage
- More difficult to maintain
Cape Cod, Georgian, Federal styles
Cape Cod style
Cape Cod style houses are a type of small colonial house plan that originated in the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts. They are characterized by their simple, rectangular shape, steeply pitched roof, central chimney, and lack of ornamentation. Cape Cod houses are typically one-and-a-half stories tall, with a symmetrical facade and a central doorway flanked by windows on either side. They often feature dormer windows on the second floor, which provide additional light and ventilation. Cape Cod houses are known for their energy efficiency and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for homeowners in coastal areas.
Georgian style
Georgian style houses are another type of small colonial house plan that originated in England during the Georgian era. They are characterized by their symmetrical facade, columned portico, and Palladian windows. Georgian houses are typically two stories tall, with a rectangular or square shape. The facade is often adorned with decorative elements such as pilasters, cornices, and pediments. Georgian houses are known for their elegance and formality, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a stately and impressive home.
Federal style
Federal style houses are a type of small colonial house plan that originated in the United States during the Federal period. They are characterized by their delicate ornamentation, curved cornices, and elliptical fanlights. Federal houses are typically two stories tall, with a rectangular or square shape. The facade is often adorned with decorative elements such as dentils, moldings, and swags. Federal houses are known for their graceful and refined appearance, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a charming and elegant home.
Comparison of Cape Cod, Georgian, and Federal styles
Cape Cod, Georgian, and Federal styles are all popular choices for small colonial house plans. However, there are some key differences between the three styles that homeowners should be aware of before making a decision.
- Cape Cod houses are the simplest and most economical of the three styles. They are typically one-and-a-half stories tall, with a rectangular shape and a steeply pitched roof. Cape Cod houses lack ornamentation, which makes them easy to maintain.
- Georgian houses are more formal and stately than Cape Cod houses. They are typically two stories tall, with a symmetrical facade and a columned portico. Georgian houses are often adorned with decorative elements such as pilasters, cornices, and pediments.
- Federal houses are the most ornate of the three styles. They are typically two stories tall, with a rectangular or square shape. The facade is often adorned with delicate ornamentation such as dentils, moldings, and swags. Federal houses are known for their graceful and refined appearance.
Compact size
Small colonial house plans are known for their compact size, which makes them ideal for homeowners who want to live in a comfortable and efficient home without sacrificing style or functionality.
The compact size of small colonial house plans is achieved through a combination of design elements, including:
- Steeply pitched roof: The steeply pitched roof of small colonial houses allows for a spacious attic, which can be used for storage or converted into additional living space. This eliminates the need for a separate attic or loft, which can save space and reduce construction costs.
- Central chimney: The central chimney of small colonial houses serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. It provides a passage for smoke and gases from the fireplace or stove to escape, while also creating a strong vertical line that draws the eye upward and adds height to the facade. This eliminates the need for multiple chimneys, which can save space and reduce construction costs.
- Symmetrical facade: The symmetrical facade of small colonial houses creates a sense of order and proportion, while also allowing for efficient use of space. The windows and other elements are arranged in a balanced and harmonious way, which minimizes wasted space and maximizes the use of natural light.
- Efficient floor plan: Small colonial house plans typically feature an efficient floor plan that makes the most of the available space. The rooms are arranged in a logical and functional way, with minimal wasted space. This allows homeowners to live comfortably and efficiently in a smaller home.
The compact size of small colonial house plans offers a number of advantages, including:
- Lower construction costs: Smaller homes require less materials and labor to build, which can save homeowners money on construction costs.
- Lower energy costs: Smaller homes require less energy to heat and cool, which can save homeowners money on energy bills.
- Easier to maintain: Smaller homes are easier to clean and maintain, which can save homeowners time and money.
- More sustainable: Smaller homes have a smaller environmental footprint, as they require less resources to build and maintain.
Overall, the compact size of small colonial house plans is a major advantage, as it allows homeowners to live in a comfortable and efficient home without sacrificing style or functionality.
Practical functionality
Efficient floor plans
Small colonial house plans are known for their efficient floor plans that make the most of the available space. The rooms are arranged in a logical and functional way, with minimal wasted space. This allows homeowners to live comfortably and efficiently in a smaller home.
One of the key features of efficient floor plans in small colonial house plans is the use of multi-purpose spaces. For example, the living room may also be used as a dining room, or the kitchen may also be used as a family room. This eliminates the need for separate rooms, which can save space and reduce construction costs.
Functional storage solutions
Small colonial house plans also incorporate functional storage solutions to help homeowners keep their homes organized and clutter-free. Built-in shelves, drawers, and cabinets are often used to maximize storage space without taking up valuable floor space.
For example, built-in shelves can be used to store books, DVDs, and other items in the living room. Drawers can be used to store clothes and other items in the bedroom. And cabinets can be used to store food and other items in the kitchen.
Natural light and ventilation
Small colonial house plans are designed to maximize natural light and ventilation. This helps to create a bright and airy living space, while also reducing energy costs.
Windows are typically placed on all sides of the house to allow for cross-ventilation. This helps to keep the home cool and comfortable in the summer months. And skylights can be used to bring natural light into interior spaces, such as hallways and bathrooms.
Timeless appeal
Small colonial house plans have endured for centuries, and for good reason. They offer a timeless appeal that resonates with homeowners of all ages and tastes.
- Classic design: Small colonial house plans are based on classic architectural principles that have been proven to stand the test of time. The symmetrical facade, steeply pitched roof, and central chimney are all elements that have been used for centuries to create beautiful and enduring homes.
- Versatile style: Small colonial house plans can be adapted to a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern. This versatility makes them a popular choice for homeowners who want a home that is both timeless and unique.
- Energy efficiency: Small colonial house plans are inherently energy efficient. The compact size, steeply pitched roof, and central chimney all contribute to reducing energy consumption. This makes them a good choice for homeowners who are looking to save money on their energy bills.
- Low maintenance: Small colonial house plans are relatively low maintenance. The simple design and durable materials make them easy to care for. This makes them a good choice for homeowners who don’t have a lot of time or money to spend on home maintenance.
Overall, the timeless appeal of small colonial house plans lies in their classic design, versatile style, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. These homes are built to last, and they can be adapted to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Energy efficiency
Compact size
One of the key factors that contribute to the energy efficiency of small colonial house plans is their compact size. Smaller homes require less energy to heat and cool, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills. In addition, the compact size of small colonial houses reduces the amount of materials needed to build the home, which can also save money and reduce the environmental impact.
Steeply pitched roof
The steeply pitched roof of small colonial houses is another factor that contributes to their energy efficiency. The steeply pitched roof allows for better air circulation, which helps to keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In addition, the steeply pitched roof can help to shed snow and rain, which can reduce the risk of damage to the home and its contents.
Central chimney
The central chimney of small colonial houses also contributes to their energy efficiency. The central chimney helps to draw warm air up and out of the home, which can help to reduce heating costs in the winter. In addition, the central chimney can help to prevent cold air from entering the home in the winter, which can also help to reduce heating costs.
Insulation and air sealing
In addition to the design features mentioned above, small colonial house plans can also incorporate a variety of insulation and air sealing measures to improve their energy efficiency. Insulation helps to keep the home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while air sealing helps to prevent air leaks, which can also lead to energy loss. Common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam. Common air sealing measures include weatherstripping, caulking, and sealing around pipes and wires.
Overall, small colonial house plans are a good choice for homeowners who are looking for an energy-efficient home. The compact size, steeply pitched roof, central chimney, and insulation and air sealing measures all contribute to the energy efficiency of these homes, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills and reduce their environmental impact.
Charming aesthetics
Symmetrical facade
One of the most charming features of small colonial house plans is their symmetrical facade. The symmetrical facade creates a sense of balance and harmony, which is visually appealing and inviting. The windows and other elements are arranged in a mirror image on either side of a central axis, which creates a sense of order and proportion. The symmetrical facade is often complemented by a central doorway, which adds to the overall charm of the home.
Steeply pitched roof
Another charming feature of small colonial house plans is their steeply pitched roof. The steeply pitched roof adds height and drama to the home, and it also helps to shed water and snow effectively. The steeply pitched roof is often adorned with dormer windows, which add even more charm and character to the home. Dormer windows also provide additional light and ventilation to the upper floors of the home.
Central chimney
The central chimney is another classic feature of small colonial house plans. The central chimney is typically located in the center of the home, where it serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. The central chimney provides a passage for smoke and gases from the fireplace or stove to escape, while also creating a strong vertical line that draws the eye upward and adds height to the facade. The central chimney is often adorned with decorative elements such as brickwork patterns, corbels, or a chimney cap, which further enhance its visual appeal.
Charming details
Small colonial house plans are often adorned with charming details that add to their overall appeal. These details may include decorative moldings, wainscoting, and built-in cabinetry. Decorative moldings can be used to add interest and character to the walls and ceilings, while wainscoting can be used to add a touch of elegance to the lower walls. Built-in cabinetry can be used to provide additional storage and display space, while also adding to the overall charm of the home.
Overall, the charming aesthetics of small colonial house plans are what make them so popular among homeowners. The symmetrical facade, steeply pitched roof, central chimney, and charming details all contribute to the overall appeal of these homes, making them a great choice for anyone who wants a home that is both beautiful and functional.
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