Your Old House:  Beyond Bungalows

Most of the historic homes in Cottontown are bungalows. But we are fortunate to have several other lovely types of homes in our historic district. Here’s how you can recognize them.

The Cottage/Romantic Revivals (from 1910 to 1940) are quite common in our neighborhood.  These homes, like bungalows, are usually 1 to 1 ½ stories high. However, unlike bungalows, they usually have a steeply pitched roof, often with several gables or dormers. This type home features a variety of quaint detailing, such as arches; tiny, decorative windows in gable ends; elaborate brickwork or ironwork.

The Foursquare (constructed from about 1890 to 1930) is one of the most popular types of housing in the country, although there are just a few in our neighborhood. These homes are two-stories tall and have a “box” shape. There is usually a hipped roof with a front dormer. The front porch may be a small stoop or may run the full width of the house.

The Colonial Revival (built from 1880 to 1940) was made to look somewhat like American homes of the 1700s. These homes usually have two stories with a symmetrical appearance. There is often an impressive entry way in the center of the front, perhaps with round columns. The trim and detail work on this type house is usually more elaborate than it is on the Foursquare.