With its abundant attractions and diverse landscapes, Florida offers something for everyone. From its white sand beaches, bustling cities, and amazing outdoor activities to its natural wildlife, it’s no wonder so many people choose to call this state home. If you’re considering buying a house in Florida, you might be wondering what types of homes you’re likely to find.
Don’t worry, Redfin is here to help. We’ve collected 11 common Florida style homes, whether you want to rent a home in Venice or buy a condo in Orlando. While home styles vary from city to city, here are some of the most popular home styles in Florida you’re likely to find. Let’s dive in.
1) Key West
Key West style homes are particular to the Key West region of Florida, meaning it’s a unique home style you’re likely not going to find outside of the area. These homes often have a conch-style architecture, characterized by their steep metal roofs and pastel-colored exteriors. You’ll typically find large porches or verandas, as well as shutters or louvered windows, helping provide ventilation and shield from the Florida sun. Additionally, some homes may be elevated off the ground to help protect your home from flood damage.
2) Art Deco
Art Deco homes are known for their striking visual appearance and luxurious design elements. With bold geometric shapes, like zig zag or chevron patterns, and symmetrical designs, materials such as marble, chrome, or glass, Art Deco houses are one-of-a-kind. The exteriors often have a sleek and streamlined look, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. You’ll find bold and vibrant colors such as black, gold, and deep jewel tones throughout the homes, creating a dramatic look. These Florida style homes also may have decorative details like sunburst motifs or stylized floral designs.
3) Contemporary
Contemporary homes typically feature clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on open spaces and natural light. They often have a neutral color palette and incorporate a mix of materials such as glass, steel, and concrete. Contemporary homes also prioritize energy efficient features like solar panels and high-efficiency appliances. Finally, they may feature smart home technology, such as automated lighting and temperature controls.
4) Craftsman
Craftsman style homes in Florida are characterized by their low-pitched roofs and front porches with tapered columns or pedestals. The exterior often features natural materials such as wood siding or stucco, and details like decorative brackets, beams, and rafters. Inside, you’ll find an open floor plan with built-in cabinetry, fireplace, and natural wood finishes such as oak or maple. Craftsman homes typically have large windows that let in plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
5) Mediterranean
Mediterranean houses take inspiration from the historic architecture located in Mediterranean countries, specifically Spain and Italy. In Florida, many of these homes have a Spanish influence, reminiscent of seaside villas. With their red-tiled roofs, stucco exteriors, metalwork, exposed wooden beams, and blend of indoor-outdoor living it’s no surprise these homes are abundant in Florida.
6) Modern farmhouse
Farmhouses are popular across the country, but in Florida, modern farmhouses are more popular. Modern farmhouses usually feature a combination of classic and contemporary elements. The exterior may include white-painted wood siding and a black or metal roof, along with plenty of windows to let in natural light. Another hallmark of the modern farmhouse aesthetic is the traditional covered front porch. Inside, the farmhouse style is combined with modern elements such as clean lines, reclaimed wood, and metals, creating a unique blend of old and new design elements.
7) New construction
New construction homes often feature modern designs with clean lines and open floor plans. They typically incorporate energy-efficient features and smart home systems. Many of these Florida-style homes also have outdoor living spaces, such as patios and screened-in lanais, to take advantage of the warm weather and tropical views. Additionally, Florida’s new construction homes may feature hurricane-resistant materials and other building techniques to help withstand Florida’s weather conditions.
8) Ranch
Ranch-style homes are popular for their single-story layout, open floor plan, and indoor-outdoor living spaces. They’re designed with a low-pitched roof, wide eaves, and large windows to maximize natural light and ventilation. The homes often feature a U- or L-shaped design that creates a private outdoor space, such as a courtyard or pool area. Some of these Florida homes may have a screened-in porch or lanai. Ranch homes are also known for their stucco or brick exteriors, and may incorporate Mediterranean or Spanish architectural elements for an added Floridian touch.
9) Resort-style
Resort-style homes capture the essence of a luxurious vacation without leaving the comfort of your home. You’ll find large open living spaces that blend with outdoor areas like patios, verandas, and courtyards. With a focus on outdoor entertaining and relaxation, resort-style homes in Florida typically have swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits for gatherings.
The homes’ architecture are inspired by tropical and Mediterranean styles with features like expansive windows, high ceilings, and spacious bedrooms with private balconies. The lush landscaping provides a sense of privacy and tranquility that makes everyday living feel like a tropical getaway.
10) Spanish
Spanish-style homes in Florida are known for their distinctive features, including stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and arched doorways and windows. You’ll often find a courtyard or patio, providing a year-round outdoor living space. Spanish-style homes may also include decorative tile work, wrought-iron accents, and ornate carvings or moldings. The interior often boasts open floor plans, high ceilings, and a blend of modern and traditional finishes.
11) Victorian
Victorian style homes in Florida include a wide range of architectural styles, namely, Queen Anne, Second Empire, and Gothic Revival. Queen Anne Victorian homes have colorful exteriors and ornate details. Second Empire Victorians feature Mansard roofs, diamond-shaped dormer windows, and decorative millwork. Lastly, Gothic Revival Victorian houses have pointed arches, steeply pitched roofs, and highly decorative trims.
This post first appeared on Redfin.com. To see the original, click here.