Southwest Florida’s homes are diverse to say the least. From modern to colonial and coastal contemporary to old Florida-style and ranches, our area has a wide array of different architectural home styles. This is one of the things that make our region so beautiful. Explore the characteristics and features of Southwest Florida‘s most popular home styles.
Modern Home Style
Southwest Florida has been closely tied to modern home architecture for quite some time. The area’s history is rich, and includes influential modern architects, such as Victor Lundy and Paul Rudolph. Both of their work can be seen throughout Southwest Florida. And their influence has left a mark on the region, especially in cities in and around Sarasota as well as in Naples.
The modern architectural home style is defined as sleek. Modern homes have clean lines, flat roof lines, minimalist design and large windows. They also are notorious for incorporating different materials into their design, such as glass, wood, metal, and concrete.
Modern architecture’s use of large windows creates stunning designs and even more stunning views. However, these glass openings need to be protected during hurricane season.
Discover the best hurricane protection for modern homes.
Coastal Contemporary Design Style
Coastal contemporary architecture is a unique mix between coastal design and modern style. It bring a beach vibe, which is fitting for our area. But it also incorporates sleek and modern elements into the design. The modern home style shines through with clean lines and large, sometimes floor to ceiling windows. A key feature of these homes is uniting the interior and exterior of the home. And the large windows and many doors provide unobstructed views outside and plenty of natural sunlight in.
Similar to the modern home style, these windows make the home vulnerable to hurricanes if they are not protected. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to protect them so you do not have to worry.
Discover the best hurricane protection for Coastal Contemporary homes.
Ranch (Florida Ranch) Home Style
It would be an understatement to say that the ranch home style is popular in the Southwest Florida region. Certain cities, such as Cape Coral have a majority of ranch homes, and it is easy to understand why.
These single-story homes are built for convenience and comfort. They are a great for those who do not want to contend with stairs. But that is not the only benefit of these homes. They have low-pitched roofs with large overhangs, which provides shade in the hot Florida sun.
One thing to note is that there are many different styles of ranch homes. They are not defined by a single look or feel. For instance, some ranches have arched openings and tiled roofs, reminiscent of Mediterranean design. Others have clean lines and styling.
The ranch style is a good choice if you prefer design flexibility. The choice of shutters, roof materials, exterior materials, and other components of the exterior home design is wide open.
This also goes for hurricane protection, where almost any type of hurricane shutter or impact window/door can be used.
Learn about the different options for storm protection for Ranch homes in Southwest Florida.
Colonial Architectural Home Styles
One of the more traditional home styles popular in Southwest Florida is the Colonial style. This architectural style is inspired by many areas of Europe, such as the Mediterranean. These are typically two (or two and a half) story homes.
There are many variations of Colonial homes. However, in our area the two most common Colonial styles are the British West-Indies style and the Spanish Colonial style.
Discover the best hurricane protection for Colonial homes in Florida’s Gulf Coast.
British West-Indies (Caribbean) Colonial Style
This style is inspired by the colonial period in the British West-Indies (Caribbean). It has a strong presence in our area, which makes sense given the tropical vibe in our coastal area. It is especially popular in areas like Naples, FL.
The British West-Indies architectural style is characterized by symmetry and tall, louvered, shuttered windows. Bahama and Colonial shutters add a charming and traditional look to the homes. The British West Indies style often features large verandas. And the homes are also synonymous with a tropical color palette, which bring personality and charm to each home.
Spanish Colonial Home Style
Another variation of Colonial home is the Spanish Colonial style. Spanish homes are inspired by Spanish architecture. And they are a true representation of luxury and sophistication. They are characterized by the use of arches (windows, doors, gates), smaller windows, stucco exteriors, low-pitched, red (or a variation of red) tile roofs, and other intricate details.
Mediterranean
Mediterranean architecture is possibly the most popular home style in much of Southwest Florida. It is characterized by several distinctive design elements that define its unique style. These include arched windows and doors. Some of the more luxurious examples also have grand entrances. They have low-pitched roofs with overhanging eaves that provide shade and protection from the sun. And they have red or similar tile roofs and stucco walls with neutral/earthy paint colors. Decorative elements like wrought iron railings and intricate tile work add charm and personality to these homes. Balconies are another key feature of Mediterranean homes.
Old Florida-Style
The old Florida-Style home is also referred to as Florida Cracker or Southern Plantation, among other names. There are many original examples throughout the state. And many new homes are inspired by these homes and use many of their design characteristics.
These homes are generally characterized by large porches or verandas, large roof overhangs, large windows, accompanied by Colonial shutters and or Bahama shutters on the exterior, and plantation shutters on the inside.
Many of the features were originally implemented for functional purposes. Specifically, they were intended (and still are beneficial) to help homeowners battle the heat and humidity of Florida, even today.
For instance, the large windows were to allow heat to rise and escape from the home. The extended roof overhangs allowed windows to remain open and provide fresh air and breeze even during pouring rain. The exterior shutters help with storm protection as well as with shade. The plantation shutters provide shade and privacy, while also allowing breeze into the home. And let’s not forget the distinctive metal roof that not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides durability and protection against harsh Florida weather.
Learn about hurricane protection products for your Old Florida-style home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southwest Florida’s diverse architectural landscape showcases a wide range of beautiful designs. Popular home styles range from the sleek lines of Modern homes to the charming details of Mediterranean villas and the functional elegance of Old Florida-style houses. However, living in the SWFL area also means being prepared for hurricane season. Regardless of your home’s unique style, protecting your property and family from storm damage is critical. Eurex Shutters understands the specific needs of each architectural style and offers a comprehensive range of hurricane protection solutions that meet each style. We can help you pick the perfect protection products to safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind.
So do not wait until a storm is on the horizon.
Contact Eurex Shutters today for a free, no-obligation estimate and ensure your Southwest Florida home is secure and stylish, no matter what hurricane season brings.
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- Meet and Exceed Current Florida Building Code
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