10 Architectural Styles That Inspired Us in 2020

Over the years, Australia’s homes have been through some incredible transitions. From Melbourne’s traditional Victorian homes to Art Deco touches and European influences, the country’s architectural style is constantly evolving.

Whether you have your eye on a modern home or prefer a more traditional approach, here are 10 architectural styles that are bound to inspire.

1. Victorian

Melbourne is renowned for its pretty Victorian houses, dating from Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901). While earlier houses tended to be very simple, later builds became grander as the state’s wealth increased. By 1875, Victorian homes began to resemble the style we are familiar with today, incorporating intricate Italianate elements. Taller terraces, ornamented parapets and projecting veranda wing walls remain standout features of traditional Victorian homes.

2. Hamptons

The quintessential East Coast US holiday home evokes feelings of romance and glamour, hinting at an irresistible breezy beach lifestyle. The Hamptons aesthetic translates well in Australia, where an indoor-outdoor lifestyle is common. Shingles, white window frames, large porches and coastal-inspired interiors all help to create the feel of a stylish holiday home made for entertaining.

3. Edwardian

Often viewed as nostalgic properties with a strong Australian identity, Edwardian homes celebrate the country’s independence – with many displaying national pride in the form of kangaroo and emu motifs. Houses built between the 1860s and 1920s are still in strong demand and recognisable thanks to their terracotta tiled roofs, wooden verandahs, stained glass windows and ceiling roses. Edwardian homes favoured simplicity and airy, light-filled rooms – elements that continue to attract buyers today.

4. California Bungalow

Between WWI and WWII, Californian bungalows became a sought-after architectural style. Australians aspired to the modern, sunny outdoor lifestyle these bungalows represented. An influx of American architectural magazines flooded the country, inspiring open-plan spaces, simple interiors and ample space for a backyard and garage.

5. Art Deco

Australia embraced the Art Deco wave from around 1918 until WWII, incorporating design elements into brickwork, balconies and chimneys. Some of the best examples of Art Deco design can be found in apartment blocks in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. Popular internal features include Art Deco motifs in the ceiling moulds and cornices, wood panelling and glass brick walls.

6. Post War

As soldiers returned from WWII and the Baby Boom began, the demand for housing in Australia increased. Homes had to be built quickly and cost-effectively, utilising mass-produced materials such as wrought iron and cement. While these utilitarian homes chose substance over style, they often came with a generous plot of land and were the first homes in Australia to boast double garages

7. Mid-Century Modern

In the 1950s and 1960s, sleek open-plan living gained popularity in Australia. Fussy designs were replaced with clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of light. Suburbs throughout the country boast these beautiful modern homes, which are still extremely popular with buyers today.

8. Contemporary

Today’s homes are constantly evolving, adapting to suit modern needs and lifestyles. A key feature is sustainability, with buyers favouring green homes with minimal impact on the environment. Solar panels, recycled materials and natural elements often feature in modern builds. Many also choose to feature smart technology, while those who prefer their homes with a touch of tradition continue to incorporate vintage architectural styles – when designing a home today, the possibilities truly are endless.

9. Scandi

With the rise of global Scandinavian brands, Nordic-style homes have become increasingly popular in Australia. Their subtle beauty and simplicity appeal to modern buyers, who love the use of natural materials such as timber and brick, panelled walls and light-filled, cosy spaces. Interiors are functional and sleek, incorporating soothing colours such as white, grey and pastels. Storage is often clever and concealed, creating more space for the modern homebuyer.

10. Pavilion

This unique style offers the best of both worlds by infusing contemporary homes with mid-century charm. The box-like design may appear simple at first glance, but the many glass elements and airy open-plan spaces have been carefully considered to make the most of the Australian climate and landscape. Pavilion-style homes are designed to sit lightly on the land and always take their surroundings into consideration – a huge bonus for eco-conscious modern buyers.

___

To discuss the architectural style of your dream home, get in touch with the team at Edina Building Group today.