Nestled in historic neighborhoods, colonial houses with a garage on the side offer a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. These architectural gems, often dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, have been adapted over time to accommodate the needs of contemporary homeowners. Let's delve into the captivating world of colonial houses with side garages, exploring their history, architectural features, and the benefits they bring to homeowners today.
Colonial architecture, influenced by European styles, began to take shape in the American colonies during the 17th century. The colonial house with a side garage, however, is a more recent adaptation, emerging in the 20th century as a response to changing lifestyles and the increasing popularity of the automobile. This fusion of old and new creates a distinctive aesthetic that honors the past while embracing the present.
Architectural Features of Colonial Houses with Side Garages
Colonial houses are characterized by their symmetrical design, centered front doors, and balanced window placement. When a garage is added to the side, these traditional elements are often maintained, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.
One common approach is to position the garage door in line with the front door, preserving the symmetrical facade. This integration can be achieved through various design elements, such as matching the garage door material and color to the house's exterior, or adding architectural details like columns or pediments to the garage facade to echo the house's design.
Preserving Symmetry
Symmetry is a defining feature of colonial architecture, and when designing a colonial house with a side garage, maintaining this balance is crucial. This can be achieved by positioning the garage door in line with the front door, or by adding design elements that mirror those on the front of the house.
For example, if the house has a centered front door with a pediment above, the garage door could be flanked by columns to mimic this design element. Alternatively, the garage door could be placed slightly off-center to maintain the overall symmetry of the house, with a window or other architectural feature added to the other side to balance the facade.
Blending Materials and Colors
Another way to integrate a side garage into the colonial house design is to match the garage door material and color to the house's exterior. This could mean using the same siding material for the garage as for the house, or painting the garage door to match the house's trim color.
For instance, if the house has clapboard siding and white trim, the garage door could be made of the same clapboard material and painted white. Alternatively, if the house has a more rustic look, the garage door could be made of wood and stained to match the house's exterior.
Benefits of Colonial Houses with Side Garages
Colonial houses with side garages offer a range of benefits to homeowners, from practical advantages to increased property value.
One of the most significant advantages is the convenience of having a garage for parking vehicles and storing belongings. This can be particularly appealing in areas with harsh winters, as a garage provides a protected space to park a car and avoid scraping ice and snow.
Convenience and Storage
In addition to providing a space for vehicles, a side garage offers ample storage for tools, gardening equipment, and other items that might otherwise clutter the house. This can help keep the home organized and clutter-free, making it more enjoyable to live in.
Moreover, a side garage can provide a workspace for hobbies or small businesses, such as woodworking, painting, or even a home office. The separate space allows for messier activities without disrupting the living space in the house.
Increased Property Value
Colonial houses with side garages can also command a higher price on the real estate market. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, homes with garages tend to sell for more than homes without garages, with the difference ranging from 1% to 20% depending on the region.
This increased value can be attributed to the convenience and practicality of a garage, as well as the fact that a garage can help protect a car's resale value by keeping it out of the elements. Furthermore, a well-designed side garage can enhance the curb appeal of a colonial house, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
In the end, colonial houses with side garages offer a unique blend of history and modernity, combining the charm of old-world architecture with the convenience of modern living. Whether you're a history buff, a practical homeowner, or a real estate investor, there's much to appreciate in these distinctive homes. So, if you're in the market for a new home, consider the colonial house with a side garage - it just might be the perfect blend of old and new for you.