At MC Homes, we don’t just limit ourselves to being luxury home builders. Our team is also incredibly experienced in the world of luxury home design.
One promise we are proud to make is when you choose to hire us for your luxury build, you don’t have to know the first thing about style or design. In fact, you can provide as much, or as little feedback on the style your luxury home will ultimately take on.
It should go without saying that in an effort to provide you with that service, we stay keenly aware of the design trends of yesterday, today and tomorrow. While we will always strive to create each home to be wholly unique, we are always drawing inspiration from both what today’s builds are trending toward, as well as some of the highlights from designs of the past to create something truly exceptional.
We published one such example last summer, when we discussed the resurgence of the Tudor style home, an inspiration we drew heavily on for the 2023 St. Jude Dream Home.
One new trend for 2024 is a shift toward reviving the charm and sophistication of Classic Colonial homes. Characterized by their timeless appeal and refined aesthetics, these homes draw inspiration from the rich heritage of American architecture.
Classic Colonial Characteristics
First, a bit of history: the “Classic Colonial” refers to the American Colonial architecture, a characteristic that emerged during the American Colonial era of the 1600s & 1700s. The name references the building style of the British colonists of New England, who were at the heart of building out these early American residences.
The term “Colonial” is rather broad, as it features different subsets of Colonial “style,” each drawing from past versions of colonizations in different parts of Europe; all largely serving the same functional purpose while having stylistic similarities.
For example, some American Colonial homes were styled like the French Colonials, while others exhibit more of the Spanish Colonial influence. The full list is much longer, also consisting of Dutch Colonial, British Colonial, Georgian, Saltbox, and more.
For all their differences, many of the Colonial styles also had overlapping similarities, the likes of which we incorporate into the modern Classic Colonial homes we see today.
Molding Mastery
One of the defining features of Classic Colonial homes is the meticulous attention to detailed molding. This architectural element adds a touch of grandeur and elegance to the overall design by providing texture and depth to the accents that adorn your home.
From crown molding that graces the ceilings to baseboards that anchor the walls, every inch showcases a precision and craftsmanship that was indicative of the time. Some examples are the classic ogee shape, dentil molding, and bead and reel style.
Detailed molding has found a footing as well in the modern adaptation of the American Colonial, where the skill involved in creating such molding has found a new appreciation in an era that knows how to compliment their features.
Ornate Framing & Trim
As is the case with molding, a lot of the nuance in Classic Colonial homes is in the details. Detailed framing and trim work are another tell-tale element of the style, with an emphasis on precision and opulence. You’ll find this work in the intricate patterns that adorn doors, windows, and mantels. The use of pilasters, pediments, and other architectural embellishments further enhances the visual appeal, creating a cohesive and harmonious design that quietly speaks of luxury.
High Gloss Paint
Classic Colonial homes also make use of high gloss paint, a design choice that not only changes the overall aesthetic of a room but also contributes to the durability of its surfaces. The reflective nature of high gloss paint creates a luxurious sheen, creating a visually stunning effect that compliments the detailed molding and trim. This style choice not only brightens up spaces but also amplifies the architectural features of the home.
High gloss paint also has its practical purposes: it’s quite a bit easier to clean due to its durability, and for the same reason, has a longer lasting effect than semi gloss or matte finishes.
Not only for its practical purposes, high gloss paint is also stylistically unique in that it creates a shiny, reflective surface. High gloss paint is extremely useful for accent walls or on cabinetry, as it adds an extra level of depth with the contrast it can create alongside a different finish, even of the same color.
Intricate Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting the architectural beauty of Classic Colonial homes. Intricate chandeliers, sconces, and pendant lights can effortlessly complement an overall design aesthetic, and their modern versions can really be the centerpiece of a room.
With all of the details in these classic styles, ample lighting is important to accentuate their beauty. From candelabra-style chandeliers to brass wall sconces, there are a number of options to illuminate your space while keeping in a complimentary style.
Curved Architectural Elements
Classic Colonial homes often feature curved architectural elements, adding a flourish of artistry to the overall design. This can be seen in the graceful curves of archways, staircase banisters, and even in the design of drywall and woodwork. These elements not only add visual interest but, once again, showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define the Classic Colonial style.
Find A Style All Your Own
At MC Homes, we take pride in being on the cutting edge of style and design. No matter how much of a design idea you have for your new home or remodel, we are prepared to assist as much, or as little, as you need.
Our design team works diligently to take your design inspirations to create something unique, something that truly speaks to you and your desires. Even if you don’t know what they are just yet.