The Shingle Style residences are a true testimony to the New England charm and beauty.
They have been one of the most requested architectural styles in the United States ever since they appeared in the late 19th century.
The combination of:
- aesthetic appeal,
- versatility,
- historical significance,
- ability to blend with nature,
- and durability,
makes the Shingle Style one of the most popular architectural choices.
There are several defining characteristics of the Shingle Style, and we will explore some of the most important and prominent ones.
Marvelous Porches
If any architectural style loves a big beautiful porch then it is the Shingle Style.
Shingle houses were originally built as vacation homes near the seaside or lakes and they were used for family gatherings and important events.
A porch was a place where you could enjoy the view and fresh air.
Before air conditioning, this was the place to cool off and enjoy the evening breeze.
Sometimes, people even slept on porches during hot summer nights.
Wood And Brick
The Shingle Style uses natural materials such as wood and brick.
These materials are perfect for giving a facade depth and character, especially wood.
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These natural elements complete the whole look and blend in with nature.
Also, wood has great insulation properties as it keeps the house cooler during summer and warmer during winter.
Some things simply cannot be replicated by plastic and unnatural materials.
Attention To Roofs
Some architectural styles give attention to different things, from doorways, facades, to roofs.
In the Shingle Style, roofs are mostly in the center of attention.
They represent a dominating feature that has given inspiration to many other styles.
Complex plans paired with different roof shapes of this style represent the true beauty of the architectural craft.
An Abundance of Doors And Windows
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As glass became more affordable in the late 19th century, architects used this opportunity to create numerous windows and doors.
It is not uncommon to see different styles of windows or doors on one Shingle house as they become more varied, larger, and more dominant features.
This creates a new admirable and recognizable element that makes this style stand out.
Uniqueness Is The Key
The Shingle Style houses are all unique in their style, as they do not follow rigid rules.
There are many exceptions to their build which makes this architectural style exceptional and admirable.
Both the interior and exterior of a Shingle house are adaptable to your liking which is what makes it ever so popular.