Antique New England Colonial House Plans

Antique New England Colonial House Plans: A Timeless Elegance

New England colonial homes are known for their classic beauty, timeless elegance, and enduring charm. Whether you're looking to build a new home or remodel an existing one, antique New England colonial house plans can provide the inspiration and guidance you need to create a home that captures the essence of this iconic American architectural style.

History of New England Colonial Homes

New England colonial homes originated in the 17th century, when European settlers arrived in North America and began building homes based on the architectural traditions of their home countries. These early homes were simple and functional, with a focus on providing shelter and protection from the harsh New England climate.

Over time, New England colonial homes evolved to reflect the unique needs and tastes of the American colonists. They became more elaborate and spacious, with features such as multiple bedrooms, formal dining rooms, and parlors. The use of brick, wood, and stone as building materials gave these homes a distinctive character that set them apart from their European counterparts.

Characteristics of New England Colonial Homes

New England colonial homes are typically characterized by the following features:

Rectangular shape: Most New England colonial homes are rectangular in shape, with a symmetrical facade.
Gabled roof: The roof is typically gabled, with a steep pitch to shed snow and rain.
Central chimney: A central chimney is a common feature of New England colonial homes, and it is often used to divide the house into two equal halves.
Wood clapboard siding: Wood clapboard siding is a popular choice for New England colonial homes, and it gives them a classic and timeless look.
Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows are a common feature of New England colonial homes, and they provide good ventilation and natural light.
Front door with sidelights: The front door is typically flanked by sidelights, which are small windows that provide additional light and make the entrance more inviting.

Benefits of Building a New England Colonial Home

There are many benefits to building a New England colonial home, including:

Timeless beauty: New England colonial homes have a classic and timeless beauty that will never go out of style.
Durability: These homes are built to last, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
Energy efficiency: New England colonial homes are typically energy efficient, thanks to their thick walls and well-insulated attics.
Versatile design: New England colonial homes can be adapted to a variety of needs and tastes, making them a good choice for families of all sizes and lifestyles.

Finding Antique New England Colonial House Plans

If you're interested in building a New England colonial home, there are a number of resources available to help you find antique house plans. You can search online, visit your local library, or consult with an architect or home builder who specializes in historic homes.

Once you've found a few house plans that you like, it's important to have them reviewed by a qualified architect or contractor to make sure that they are accurate and up to code. You should also make sure that the house plans are appropriate for your budget and the size and location of your building lot.

Conclusion

Antique New England colonial house plans offer a unique opportunity to create a home that is both beautiful and timeless. With their classic design, durable construction, and energy-efficient features, these homes are a great choice for families of all sizes and lifestyles.

If you're interested in building a New England colonial home, there are a number of resources available to help you find antique house plans and get started on your project. With a little planning and effort, you can create a home that you'll love for generations to come.