How to Convert a Colonial to a Dutch Colonial

Colonial architecture features heavy symmetry.

Architecture is a reflection of both of its surroundings and the residents' taste. While Colonial style--which originated in America--refers to a general style of architecture and design, its genre includes the more specific designs of Dutch Colonial, Cape Cod, Saltbox and Georgian architecture. A basic Colonial design is identified by a rectangular and symmetrical shape throughout the home. Bedrooms in a Colonial home are usually on the second floor, with the living rooms and kitchen on the bottom floor. Windows in Colonials will have a symmetrical double-paned, double-hung arrangement. The Dutch Colonial style uses the same concepts of symmetry and doubles while adding the barn-like design elements brought by German settlers to the Pennsylvania region in the 1600s.

Instructions

1. Modify the Colonial roof into a Dutch Colonial gambrel-roof with side gables. Extend roof eaves so that they have a large overhang. Install a stone chimney on one or both ends of the home.

2. Add flaring eaves over second-floor windows. Install double-hung sash windows. Ensure that all casements and window framing is done in wood.

3. Create a linear interior floor plan. Use the original concept of a single-room Dutch Colonial to center your entrance doorway into the main room of your main floor. Add rooms symmetrically on either side, as the original Dutch style always added additions to the ends of the home. Use stone to create the end walls on either side of the home, where the stone chimney base will be located.

4. Replace your front door with a centrally located entrance. Install a Dutch double doorway. Look for a door that divides horizontally in the original historic style.

Tips & Warnings

• Use real estate listings to find Dutch Colonial homes in your area, and browse the listings or take a tour for inspiration.

References

• Architecture: Dutch Colonial
• Architecture: Colonial