Colonial Style House: Definition, Variants, Costs & Trends

A Colonial-style house is a timeless architectural form rooted in 17th-18th-century colonial America, drawing from British, Dutch, French, Spanish, and German traditions. Typically, these homes are symmetrical, rectangular, and two to three stories tall, with a centered front door, multi-pane double-hung windows, and a steeply pitched gable or gambrel roof. They often feature brick, wood, stone, or stucco facades, with decorative shutters and minimal ornamentation.

Key Features at a Glance

• Symmetrical façade: balanced windows on each side of a central entrance
• Height & shape: two or three stories; rectangular footprint
• Roof style: steep gable or gambrel (Dutch Colonial); dormer windows are common
• Chimneys: single central or paired on ends, often brick
• Windows: multi-pane, double-hung with shutters; typically 5 across the second floor
• Entryway: pediment or crown above the door, sometimes flanked by columns or pilasters
• Floor plan: central hall divides formal living/dining at front and kitchen/family rooms in back; bedrooms upstairs

Colonial Variants

Costs: Build vs. Renovate

• New construction
  • National average: $100-200 /sq ft → ~$300k-600k for 3,000 sq ft
  • High-cost markets: up to $1,000+/sq ft → $3M+ in Bay Area
• Historic renovation
  • Basic rehab of an 18th-century Colonial: $300k-400k; full restoration: $1M+
  • Typical room remodels: kitchens $25k-90k; bathrooms $2k-35k

Pros: timeless curb appeal, adaptable layouts, strong resale value.
Cons: multi-level living (less suitable for all), energy inefficiency in older homes, high restoration costs and maintenance.

Modern & Revival Trends

• Colonial Revival (late 19th-mid-20th c.): combines multiple Colonial styles with grand entryways, sunrooms, side wings, and mantels
• Neo-Colonial/new builds: vinyl siding, open interiors, modern touches, but preserve symmetry, windows, and center hall layout
• Sustainability: better insulation, energy-efficient multi-pane windows, HVAC upgrades, while retaining historical charm

FAQ

1. What defines a Colonial-style home?
Mostly symmetry, two to three stories, steep roofs, multi-pane windows, and a central entry.

2. How much does it cost to build a Colonial?
Roughly $100-200 /sq ft nationally; in high-cost areas, $1,000+/sq ft, a 3,000 sq ft home might reach $3M.

3. Georgian vs. Federal Colonial. What’s the difference?
Georgian is formal with classical details; Federal adds finer embellishments like fanlights and Palladian windows.

4. Is Neo-Colonial authentic?
Yes, it mimics the symmetry and style, but adapts materials and floor plans for modern living.

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Written by Narayan Shrouthy. November 10, 2015

Narayan is a content writer for Kukun. With experience in both content writing and editing, Narayan mixes his writing and love for reading with his passion for music. As an active musician, He aims to be a key player in Kukun's content experience.