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When you imagine your dream home, what comes to mind? Whether you have the blueprint mapped out in your head or you’re torn between a variety of vague ideas, Johnson Imperial Homes of Hastings, NE, is happy to step in and offer their expertise. These custom home builders are proud to prioritize curb appeal, and they have experience with a number of different designs. If you’re in the exploratory stages of home design, consider these four popular architectural styles that the experts recommend.

A Guide to Popular Architectural Styles From a Custom Home Builder

1. Cape Cod

As the characteristic style of many Northeast U.S. homes, this home is often recognized by its symmetrical appearance. In a Cape Cod-style home, you’ll find a centered entrance and a simplistic facade. Most of these homes feature steeped roofs with side gables, a chimney, and shutters. They are usually composed of a wooden frame and covered in lap, shake, or shingle siding. If you’re charmed by the idea of a cottage-like rectangular home reminiscent of the 17th century, the Cape Cod style is just right for you.

2. Art Deco

At the core of art deco architecture is a simple concept: simple, blocky shapes edged in intricate ornamentations. That’s why this style was so popular in the 1920s and 30s—the minimalist bases were cost-effective, and the elaborate decorations were in style. Such applied motifs included geometric shapes inspired by Native American artwork, as well as chevrons and floral patterns. The most common materials associated with art deco architecture are stucco, smooth stone, terracotta, and concrete. Opaque plate glass and metal are often used for the decorative add-ons.

3. Colonial

custom home builderColonial architecture—of which the Cape Cod-style is a spinoff—is marked by a rectangular footprint, a steep, pointed roof, and central entry point. However, these traditional homes rise to two or three stories and feature brick or wood exteriors. They are also easily recognized by symmetrical pairings of windows with shutters. Many colonial homes feature columned porches or entry pediments.

4. Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern homes are based on retro designs with a modern-day flair. Modeled after homes built from 1945 to the 1980s, these post-WWII plans focused on a return to nature. Therefore, they were inherently simple, with open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out to the surrounding landscape. In a mid-century modern home, you’ll find flat roofs, large windows or sliding glass doors, and other simple geometric lines. Another mark of a mid-century home is elevation changes, such as a few steps descending into a living room.

Whatever architectural style sticks out to you most, Johnson Imperial Homes is equipped to turn it into a living space for you. Their team offers comprehensive services, covering everything from the initial designs to the eventual construction project. After almost 100 years of experience, they have the expertise to ensure your home is as beautiful as it is functional. Call them today at (402) 461-4100, and visit the website to learn more about their extensive history as a custom home builder. 

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