How to Use European Design When Building Your Own Home

Arches dominate gothic design.

Throughout the long and tumultuous history of the European continent, one fact stands unchallenged; European architecture has provided the world with breath-taking architectural styles time after time. Whether you want French country detailing or the sensuous lines of Mediterranean appeal, you will find something you love in a European style.

Things You'll Need

• European architecture books
• Clay tiles (Southern European style)
• Gothic embellishments (High Victorian period)
• Columns (Greek Revival style)
• Hard wood floors (Colonial style)
• Wainscoting (Central European)
• Turrets (French provincial period)
• Geometric fabrics (Tuscany style)

Instructions

1. Opt for high ceilings, masonry floors and wainscoting throughout your new home if you like the traditional Central European style. With double-hung windows and narrow galley kitchens, this style provides function while adding elegance and classic beauty.

2. Build upwards with French provincial rooflines that compliment steep grades with slate or tile shingles. Arched windows and round or peaked dormers offset the sharp lines and add unmistakable cottage flair.

3. Incorporate hand-carved stone columns, massive planters and fireplace surrounds fashioned by native stone artisans. Ranging from gentle rose hues to deep burgundys, stone outcroppings along the Mediterranean Sea provide the same material famous sculptors use to carve masterpieces. Employ geometric patterns, tall entryways and swirls to bring a bit of Southern Europe into your new home.

4. Fashion wrought-iron window boxes, fences, railings and balusters with a distinctly Italian flavor to spice up your home architecture. Combining Gothic and Baroque influences, Italian design offers a warm, elaborate style that mimics the colorful vineyards in the South.

5. Choose a Colonial style design for a perennially popular architecture that holds its real estate value. Considered a classic favorite in housing, Colonial style includes second-story homes, two or more staircases elaborately trimmed with hardwood and wooden floors that warm an interior with their golden glow.

6. Combine more than one European design element to create your own signature style. Since the designs of one era led to the style of the next, similar elements span many eras and geographic locations.

Tips & Warnings

• Research European styles and narrow your choices down to one or two before contacting your architect . After choosing your desired style, your designer will incorporate your ideas into the exterior features and interior design elements of your new home.