The beauty of building a custom home is that you have the opportunity to decide what you want and need… and then turn that vision into a home built for living.

One of the most fundamental decisions is the design style you prefer. If you’re wrestling with the choice of a modern vs. traditional home, we’re here to help! By working one-on-one with each of our homeowners, we can help you make decisions you will love to live with for years – and decades – to come.

First, let’s take a look at the difference between modern and traditional homes:

Traditional Home Design

When we talk about traditional home designs, we’re talking about styles inspired by 18th and 19th century homes, which had a heavy European influence. “Traditional” has become synonymous with “timeless” for many people, and there is an emphasis on symmetry, cozy charm, rich, dark colors and woods, ornate detail, and patterned textiles. Typically, traditional homes feature a number of purpose-built rooms rather than open spaces.

Often, traditional homes feature large, open porches, peaked roofs, and the use of wood, brick, and/or stone.

traditional home

A G&G Craftsman style home with stone accents and an open, airy porch.

These homes are designed to convey a sense of calm, predictability, and order. There is nothing that will shock or surprise; instead, the focus is on creating a homey atmosphere. That is not to say they are boring! Rather, they create a welcoming refuge from the cares and worries of the world.

Modern Home Design

It is important to note that some “modern” homes date back a century! Modern is a style rather than a specific time period. This design philosophy came about in response to the ornate – and, as some thought, overly fussy – conventions found in traditional homes. Modern cuts the clutter and creates a streamlined living space. Gone are the detailed woodwork, the enclosed, separate rooms, and the soft, round edges.

traditional home

A Modern Prairie style home by G&G featuring clean, angular lines.

Instead, modern home design focuses on stripping away the “extra” and letting the structure speak for itself. You’ll see open floor plans, multi-functional and flexible spaces, sharper, cleaner edges, the use of concrete and steel, lighter wood flooring, and minimal (or no) window treatments.

Seeing the Difference Between Traditional and Modern Homes

Let’s take a look at these designs in action!

Here is a Prairie style home that features traditional design elements:

traditional home
“By working one-on-one with each of our homeowners, we can help you make decisions you will love to live with for years - and decades - to come.”

The wood on the staircase and in the exposed beams of the sitting area are rich and dark. There is some subtle detail work on the newel posts, as well as stone as a living room focal point. It’s cozy, charming, and comfortable.

Now here is a Modern Prairie:

This modern design is uncluttered, light, and airy. Contrast the stairs with those of the more traditional Prairie. They’re streamlined, sleek, and minimalist. You can also see that there is an open floor plan that makes the space large and creates wonderful flow from room to room. In addition to crisp lines, the decor features a light/neutral palette that enhances the natural light.

Which Home Design Style Do You Prefer?

Neither is right or wrong, better or worse. And, as you can see, both traditional and modern styles are beautiful! Remember, you can infuse design elements from both to create your dream home. A Modern Farmhouse, for example, can offer purpose-built rooms, as well as space-enhancing open floor plans:

Again, there is no wrong answer when it comes to traditional vs. modern homes – but there is a right answer for you, your needs, and your lifestyle. We’ll help you find it! Get in touch with G&G today to learn more.

With G&G, it always starts with a conversation so let’s get to know each other a little better! Schedule a free consultation with us today!

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