The All-American Home Tour: Exploring Historic Home Styles Across the U.S.

It’s time to go on a good ol’ fashioned summer road trip to explore the most iconic historic all-American home styles from across the country. From the Colonial homes of New England to the Craftsman style of the prairies to the colorful French Colonial homes of the South, America’s historic homes have a diverse, layered story to tell based on the unique climates, histories, and cultures that have grown there. 

And what’s more? Taking a look at these homes can give us some pointers on how to instill a timeless, classic feel in our own homes.

So gas up and hit the road with us as we take you on a cross-country road trip in search of some design inspiration for your own home.

New England

 
With over 400 years of settlement history, the Northeast has a huge variety of historic architecture, much of it being well-preserved to this day. From stately Colonial and Federal homes to simple saltbox and Cape Cod-style homes, the go-to staples within New England homes are timeless finishes, classic decor, and no unnecessary clutter.

Take this home on Martha’s Vineyard—between neutral, classic elements like light, knotted hardwood and Shaker-style cabinetry, this home is a modern New England dream. For similar floors, check out LL Flooring’s Claire Gardens Oak Engineered Hardwood Flooring.

Southeast

It’s time we head down the coast to get a look at some classic Southeast homes. Between the ornate French Colonial homes of Louisiana and the modest log cabins of Appalachia, the Southeast holds a wide range of home styles that mirror its long history. Some classic staples of a Southern home are large wrap-around porches—which offer protection from storms and summer heat—and inviting, colorful interior decor with historic ties.

As with classic homes in New England, older Southern homes lean heavily on timeless elements like hardwood, while incorporating more well-worn, charming decor in brighter colors, seen in this home designed by Maggie Griffin Interiors. For floors instilled with South character (but with proven moisture resistance), try LL Flooring’s Tacoma Oak Waterproof Hybrid Resilient Flooring.

Midwest

 
Cutting northwest, we’re heading toward the vast prairies and forests of the Midwest. Inspired by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and the Arts and Crafts movement of the mid-19th century, much of the classic Midwestern architecture contains clean, simple lines and fewer intricate details found in historic coastal homes. Between Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic “Prairie Style” homes and utilitarian Craftsman homes, the emphasis is on simplicity and quality craftsmanship (hence the name).

Characterized by wood framing, exposed rafters, and open floor plans, rich, medium-toned wood is a major element of a classic Craftsman home. For a Craftsman-inspired home, consider LL’s Saddle Oak Solid Hardwood Flooring.

What are your favorite American homes? We would love to hear about great homes you see on your summer vacations—tag us on all social platforms at #LLStyle!

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