Whether you’re new to the Valley of the Sun and looking to buy a home, visiting the area on vacation or even if you’ve lived here all your life, you’re sure to encounter many different styles of homes in Arizona. Architecture here is rather different from other parts of the country.
From back East or a big city? You probably haven’t encountered a popular style of home found in Arizona commonly known as Santa Fe, or Territorial, style. These homes have a pueblo-style look and usually are constructed out of stucco. They feature a plain square design, which may have rustic wooden beams – called vigas – protruding out of the stucco in the front of the home or sometimes over the garage for a decorative touch. These homes support a flat roof and may resemble homes you’ve seen in Western movies.
Another type of architecture popular for Arizona homes is the Ranch style, which is quite common in other parts of the country, too. These single-level homes with a pitched roof are plentiful in older, established Arizona neighborhoods.
Of course, Spanish-influenced architecture has long been utilized in Arizona and is glimpsed not only in more mature areas but also in many of the newer, gated communities. These homes are highlighted by arched doorways and red-tile roofs that are usually pitched but can also be flat.
The newer edition of Santa Barbara, or Tuscan, style has sprung up within the past seven to 10 years, frequently in larger homes with about 5,000 square feet and, more specifically, in homes located in Paradise Valley and other upscale environs. In fact, when older homes are torn down and rebuilt in those areas, the new home is often built in the Tuscan style. The look usually includes tile roofs, rustic-type shutters and high ceilings. The Tuscan style also may feature a courtyard in the front of the home (or near the entrance) and while such homes may be one story, there are many that are two or even three stories, often with lots of stonework on the outside to distinguish them from other types of homes found in the Valley.
One more architectural style that is a bit more of a rarity in Arizona dwellings is the contemporary. With its modern and airy feel – often incorporating clean lines, geometric forms, overhangs and lots of glass windows and/or walls to let the light in – contemporary homes often look like works of art themselves. Of course, this type of home also calls for a certain type of homeowner. Clutter in this type of home can ruin the presentation!
No matter what style of home you prefer, however, Arizona has a home that will work for you. And if you can’t find one ready to purchase in the style you desire, rest assured. You can always buy a lot and have the home of your dreams custom-built just for you.
Tags: Architectural Styles of Arizona Homes, arizona property expert, homes in arizona, homes located in Paradise Valley