Venturing into the world of home design and building may seem easy at first–until you realize just how many options exist. Given the variety and breadth of choices, deciding on the perfect home style for you and your family can be intimidating. 

This guide breaks down some of the most popular home styles, so you can explore your options and confidently make your choice.

Ranch Houses

Ranch-style homes are a timeless icon of American neighborhoods and gained their popularity back in the 1950s when nine out of ten homes embraced the look, according to the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training. With their Spanish-Colonial flair, these cozy, down-to-earth homes have a single-story design and a low-slung roof with wide eaves. 

Despite the whirlwind of change since their heyday, ranch homes remain a classic choice. They often have open-concept floor plans, large windows, and attached garages. Ranch-style homes offer a timeless charm updated for modern living. Many newly built ranches combine classic elements like back patios and sliding glass doors with stylish touches tailored to today’s design trends. While they may look different from the 1950s originals, ranches have retained their allure.

Beach Houses

Picture yourself in a seaside sanctuary with the ocean on the horizon. Beach houses are designed to allow homeowners to enjoy all the perks of beach life, such as the weather and sunlight. Flooded with light through expansive windows and soaring skylights, these homes beckon you to experience coastal life through wraparound porches or decks.

With architectures spanning from modern to traditional, beach homes are found in both single- and two-story floor plans. If your home is perched close to, on, or near water, your foundation is often raised several feet above sea level to prevent flooding during inclement weather. Beach houses along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean are built with reinforced windows, roofs, and support beams to help withstand potential hurricanes. Luckily, these safety features are cleverly hidden and don’t interfere with the home’s style or beauty.

Spanish Houses

Spanish-style homes hold a captivating charm due to their curved lines and arched doorways. A delightful blend of old-world elegance and modern luxury, these homes have made their way from Spain to primarily the neighborhoods of Florida, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Often covered in an exquisite exterior of white stucco (a mixture of cement, water, and sand), Spanish houses also have pretty Terracotta roof tiles that contrast with the white or cream-colored home. If the tiles are the iconic red, the home gains an additional touch of warmth and playful asymmetry.

Cottage-Style Homes

Pulling from the charm of the English countryside, cottage-style homes have steep peaks, stone or wood exteriors, and whimsical window shutters. Though inherently asymmetrical and unbalanced, this style still captivates homeowners. On the inside, these houses have a combination of functionality and charm with living spaces designed to cater to modern living. Many of these cottages have been renovated over the years, retaining the essence of their original interiors with refreshed style. Cottage-style homes, sometimes referred to as cabin-style homes, place an emphasis on first-floor livability. Bedrooms and most bathrooms are located on the second floor while living and work spaces (such as the kitchen and dining area) are placed on the first floor. These homes maintain a steady design flow from one area to the next.

If you're looking to create your dream home with all the latest technology and design trends, consider Pulte Homes. Our houses are customized to fit your lifestyle, now and in the future. With our commitment to quality, you and your family can enjoy your home for years to come. Plus, we understand that everyone's style is different, which is why we offer the option to personalize your new house. With a 10-year structural warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected. Let us help you build the home you've always dreamed of. Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities today!