illustrations by Roland Sarkany and Michael Gellatly Spanish Colonial Revival

An eclectic mix of influences can be found in our state’s early architecture. Here, we highlight seven prominent styles that have withstood the test of time.

Popular between 1915 and 1940, this style incorporates details such as terra-cotta tiles and large chimneys, like those seen in Spanish and Mexican architecture. Arched entry portals and a combination of gable, shed and flat roofs are common.

Transitional Ranch An L-shaped floor plan is typical of an early or transitional Ranch home, a style that was introduced in the mid- to late-1930s. Other characteristics are brick or concrete-block walls, metal-framed windows with small panes, and low-pitched gable or hip roofs, often having asphalt shingles with horizontal wood siding at the gable ends.

Transitional Ranch

Tudor Revival

Tudor Revival To spot a Tudor-style home, look for tall chimneys, multiple gables, and steep roofs covered with wood or slate shingles. Other characteristics include leaded-glass casement windows and arched doorways. This Revival style was popular between 1915 and 1940.

International A low, squared geometric form characterizes this home style, which stemmed from the Modern art movement. Other traits include corner windows with small panes, squared door openings, a flat roof and smooth stucco walls. This style was particularly popular between the 1950s and 1970s.

International

Craftsman Bungalow

Craftsman Bungalow Built from 1905 to 1925, this style most often is a single-story dwelling, but sometimes has an extra half-story. Features include a front porch with square columns, and a low-pitched roof with front-facing gable ends, exposed trim, and trusses.

Mediterranean Revival These large two-story homes often have irregular floor plans and asymmetrical facades. They also feature elaborate doorways, small-paned casement windows, red-tiled hip roofs, smooth plastered walls that usually are white, and such decorative elements as columns, pilasters and turrets.

Mediterranean Revival

Southwest

SouthwestPopularized between 1915 and 1940, these homes are characterized by exposed beams and a mix of flat and low-pitched gable roofs with red tiles. The floor plans tend to be rectangular, and walls are flat and stuccoed in earth or light tones. Tall windows are typical, and there may be a front porch or arched portal.