Characteristics and Types of Colonial Architecture in Florida
When you think of traditional Florida-style architecture, the Colonial style may come to mind. Colonial architecture is inspired by homes throughout different parts of Europe, such as the Mediterranean. In turn, there are many different variations of the Colonial architectural style. In Southwest Florida there are two variations that are quite popular. These include British West Indies-architecture and Spanish Colonial architecture.
Both of these home styles are visually appealing. So it is easy to understand why homeowners are concerned with ruining their curb appeal with hurricane protection. Luckily, there are hurricane shutters and impact glass that matches the natural style of these homes perfectly.
We discuss each of these popular Florida styles below along with appropriate hurricane protection options.
Hurricane Protection for a British West Indies-Style Home
The British West Indies-style is popular in Southwest Florida, especially in the Southwest Florida city of Naples, FL. This style is thought to be inspired by the Colonial period architecture in the West Indies in the Caribbean islands. As such, this style has a very Caribbean vibe and look.
The style is characterized by symmetry and tall, louvered, shuttered windows. These add a charming and classic look to the homes. The British West Indies style often features large verandas. And the homes are also characterized by their tropical color palette, which bring personality and charm to each home.
If you are trying to protect your home, there are some options that fit your home’s natural style perfectly.
Louvered shutters are a common component of British West Indies-Style homes. So both Colonial Shutters and Bahama shutters are commonly seen on this style of home. And luckily, both are offered in hurricane-shutter versions.
Below we highlight each of these hurricane shutters.
Colonial Hurricane Shutters
Colonial shutters are commonly seen on British West-Indies style homes in Southwest Florida. These louvered shutters sit on the side of each opening and fold over your window for a storm. They can be used on both windows and doors. Custom Colonial Hurricane Shutters allow you to match the size of your openings perfectly.
As an added bonus, they can be custom painted to any color. That means you can choose anything from classic black to a vibrant blue, a pastel, or whatever color your heart desires.
Bahama Hurricane Shutters & Deco Bahama Shutters
Full window Bahama shutters are commonly seen on West-Indies style homes in SWFL. Like Colonial shutters they are also louvered, but they are hinged at the top of each window (not the sides like Colonial shutters). They also act as window covers, covering your window at an angle (which is adjustable by telescoping arms). Their design makes them great for providing shade and blocking out harmful UV rays.
When a storm approaches, you drop them down and secure/lock them in place.
Decorative, half Bahama shutters are also common on these homes. These are strictly decorative, but they do add a nice visual appeal and provide some shade.
Impact Windows and Doors
If your home does not have shutters (and you do not want to add them) you can opt for impact glass. Impact windows and doors offer 24/7 hurricane protection with no preparation required. If your large panes of glass are a focal point of your home, then impact glass will allow you to protect your home without shutters.
Hurricane Protection For a Spanish Colonial Style Home
Spanish Colonial homes are another popular type of architectural style in Southwest Florida. These homes are a representation of luxury and sophistication. Their design includes arches, smaller windows, stucco exteriors, low-pitched, red tile roofs, and intricate details.
The design and style of these homes is quite unique. This means there is a limited list of products suitable for protecting them from hurricanes. Fortunately, Colonial Shutters are commonly seen on these homes. And these shutters are available in hurricane-rated versions.
If you do not want to add shutters to your home, your best option is to use impact windows and doors.
Here are your two best options that will help you protect your Spanish Colonial style home while staying true to its architectural style.
Colonial Hurricane Shutters
Colonial shutters are louvered shutters that sit on the side of each opening and fold over your window for a storm. Hurricane-rated versions use storm bars to secure them in place.
They can be used to protect both your windows and doors. As we mentioned above, custom Colonial Hurricane Shutters allow you to match the size of your openings perfectly.
As an added bonus, they can be custom painted to any color. That means you can choose anything from classic black to a vibrant blue, a pastel, or whatever color your heart desires.
Impact windows and Door
Adding shutters to your home’s exterior may not be right for you. So if your home does not have shutters (and you do not want to add them) you can replace your windows and doors with impact glass.
Impact windows and doors look just like regular windows so your home’s curb appeal will not change at all. They also offer 24/7 hurricane protection with no preparation required.
Best in class performance, technology & warranty
- Meet and Exceed Current Florida Building Code
- Custom, highest quality hurricane shutters
- Up to 20 year limited warranty
