What comes to mind when you think of New England? Clambakes, stonewalls, and autumn foliage all conjure images often associated with Northeastern America, but what is the building style specific to the region? When our forefathers first settled the area in the 17th Century the architecture of their homes and interiors were inspired by their homes in England, and not much has changed over the years for classic New England style and décor.
Shakers settled in New England in the earliest days of American colonization, and they decorated their homes sparsely with useful and minimalist furnishings. They often whitewashed the rooms, and the floors featured wide-planked boards, adorned with peg rails, ladder-back chairs, simple cabinetry, and handmade baskets.
Today, New England homes feature various styles, but most people envision rustic cabins, coastal cottages, and rural farmhouses. Of course, houses in each part of the Northeast share similar vernacular influences.
New England style can be grouped into coastal, farmhouse, primitive, rustic, cottage, and traditional sub-categories.Of these sub-categories, many material elements are commonly found. Outside, you might see cedar shake shingles, white picket fences, iron lanterns, stone walls, gardens, and of course, barns!
Inside, low wood ceilings and exposed beams would cover wide plank floors and brick hearths. This New England style is what Americans now think of as traditional design – it has timeless appeal and is still very popular today. We are Early New England Homes. For more information about New England style homes, call us at (860) 643-1148.