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Spanish Style Homes: Ideal for Hot, Dry Climates
Spanish-style homes are a product of their environment. In extreme climates, every decision is based on one thing: survival. Consequently, Spanish architecture is ideal for hot, dry weather, built with locally available materials: stone, dirt, and clay.
Spanish-style houses can be seen in hot climates with cacti in the gardens and sun-warmed tiles on the roof. Spanish architecture also has other important characteristics. Here’s everything you need to know about Spanish-style homes that might convince you to move to the desert.
Spanish architecture made its debut in America in 1915 at the Panama-California Exposition in San Diego. Architect Bertram Goodhue designed the California Quadrangle in Balboa Park.
This example of white stucco walls and red tile roofs gained popularity in the American West, leading to the construction of Spanish-style homes with these features throughout the 50s.
The majority of Spanish homes today blend various styles, keeping the classic stucco exterior walls and red tile roofs. They may also include a Mission-style bell tower or a Monterey-style second-floor balcony. Spanish architecture is continuously evolving, which is why it’s often referred to as Spanish-style.
The range of Spanish-style homes is vast, offering endless options for home builders.
Exteriors of Spanish-style homes
Stucco walls
A Spanish-style home’s white walls are notable. White stucco is preferred because it reflects the sun rather than trapping heat, making it a practical option for a desert home.
The defining feature of Spanish-style homes is red-tiled roofs. Clay is easy to come by in desert areas, making it a logical material choice for your home. Additionally, it serves as the major detail for the exterior of a Spanish-style house.
Next, we find variances in Spanish-style houses. While stucco plays a role on the exterior, stone or brick may also be present. Usually, this creates a visual feature rather than a functional one.
Patterned tile can add a pop of color and style to your Spanish home. Whether it’s on the steps leading to your front door or on your front porch, this detail can elevate the overall aesthetic. With an eye for details, you can enhance the plain and flat areas of your home and bring in a vibrant element.
Consider using brick or stone for your driveway instead of concrete or asphalt to enhance the luxurious feel of your Spanish-style home.
Most classic Spanish-style homes are asymmetrical. If you have a grand front door, embrace the silhouette. Make it stand out with patterned tiles or landscaping to play up the Spanish architecture.
Colorful accents for your Spanish-style home can be achieved by painting your window sashes in a bright shade that complements any patterned tile you may have. A simple coat of paint can make a noticeable difference in the overall appearance of your house.
Wrought Iron:
Sometimes the front yard of a Spanish home will have a courtyard with a gate. If that describes your Spanish-style home, find a spectacular gate.
Heavy iron is preferable, and any pattern will do for a Spanish-style house.
Lawn care can be challenging if you can’t afford professional help. Instead of spending time mowing and weeding, consider landscaping your front yard. The arid climate allows for low-maintenance plants that won’t grow too tall or appear overly untamed.
This kind of outdoor area is perfect for Spanish-style houses.
Living in an area with snakes, coyotes, and large bugs makes having a sheltered outdoor space a preference. In Spanish-style homes, a courtyard may replace a backyard if it is spacious enough. Typically tiled and covered, it provides an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation and potted plants.
Want to add more interest to your courtyard? Consider a pergola and outdoor fireplace for your Spanish-style home. These additions create a beautiful seating area and allow for more stucco on your home.
Outdoor seating nooks are fun in a yard. Make a bench look built into your Spanish-style home to create a spot to hide away in your interior courtyard.
Everyone who has designed a home knows the value of separate areas for separate purposes. Transform some space in your Spanish-style house into a patio. This allows for an outdoor dining room and a separate living room, both independent from your pool.
Do you have kids at home? Then a courtyard with patio pavers might not be the best option. Give them some grass to play on and they’ll love you forever.
Get ready for outdoor bonfires and movie nights on the lawn of your house.
Looking to modernize your Spanish-style house while keeping its originality intact? Consider incorporating industrial elements. By adding iron-rimmed windows and linear features, you can enhance the beauty of your home while still honoring its Spanish heritage.
When it comes to the interiors of a Spanish-style house, indoor stucco is a great choice. Stucco can add texture and depth to your walls, giving them a rustic charm that is characteristic of Spanish design. Pair it with warm earth tones and wooden accents to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Another key element to consider is tile. Spanish-style houses are known for their beautiful tile work, so incorporating it into your home is a must. Whether it’s in the form of a backsplash, flooring, or even a decorative accent, tile can elevate the look of any room and add a touch of traditional Spanish flair.
Don’t forget about wrought iron. From light fixtures to railings and furniture, wrought iron can add a touch of elegance to your Spanish-style home. Look for pieces that feature traditional Spanish designs, such as scrollwork or floral motifs, to complete the look.
Lastly, pay attention to the details. Spanish-style houses often feature intricate carvings, arches, and ornate doorways. By incorporating these elements into your home, you can further enhance its Spanish charm and create a space that is truly unique.
In conclusion, modernizing a Spanish-style house does not mean losing its originality. By incorporating industrial elements, such as iron-rimmed windows and linear features, while still honoring traditional Spanish design, you can create a home that is both modern and authentic.
Spanish-style homes often incorporate exterior features on the inside as well, such as stucco walls. This textured backdrop serves as a versatile foundation for various types of decor.
Stucco might not be the only thing you’ll find on the walls. Stone is a great accent in rustic and Spanish-style homes. Light shades and earthy tones will match your stucco walls perfectly.
Many Spanish-style houses have high ceilings. Keep your decorating simple so that the important things stand out.
Exposed beams are common in Spanish architectural style and can be a major detail in pulling together all your wood furniture. Whether you prefer raw, rustic beams or smooth and stained versions, they are perfect for unifying a Spanish eclectic room.
The Spanish style homes often have a grand fireplace as the focal point in the living space. Whether it has a chunky mantle or extends all the way to the ceiling, it provides a cozy feature for colder seasons.
Let’s discuss lighting in Spanish homes. Wrought iron lighting fixtures are commonly used, as they create a striking contrast against the light stucco walls and dark wooden decorative elements.
Spanish furniture, specifically for a Spanish-style interior, should consist of wood pieces. Look for heavy dark accent tables, high headboards, and deep rich wood tones to create an authentic Spanish feel. The natural wood complements the earthy tones commonly found in this style.
Furniture should not only be wooden and heavy, but also intricately carved to enhance its design. This style is influenced by the Spanish Baroque design era, which is known for its attention to detail.
When it comes to Spanish baroque style, it is important to note that it complements smooth stucco-filled homes. The more detail the furniture has, the better it fits with this style.
Wood cabinetry is also a key component of this design style.
Furniture isn’t the only place to add heavily carved wood in your interior. If you’re planning a kitchen makeover, choose cabinets that match the heavy wood aesthetic. You’ll earn extra design points if they feature carved details, similar to your other furniture.
Wood cabinetry also complements a Spanish eclectic kitchen.
Vibrant hues
Wood pieces aren’t the only type of decor in Spanish-inspired homes. Spanish decor embraces rich jewel shades, such as bright red, blue, golden yellow, and orange, which are commonly found in Spanish-style homes, particularly in Spanish eclectic style.
Patterned tile in a modern Spanish home offers the opportunity to create a big statement. Whether it’s a patterned backsplash in the kitchen or a shower covered in your favorite design, incorporating patterned tile can elevate the Spanish style of your home.
Last but not least, consider your window coverings when it comes to Spanish style. Traditionally, Spanish-style homes had small windows, but modern layouts often feature larger ones. To combat the hot sun in the afternoons, opt for heavy curtains that can be closed to keep your space cool. Hang them high and wide to maximize the benefits, especially if you have large, arched windows.
There are truly impressive Spanish-style homes and mansions available that embody this style. Let’s take a closer look at a few examples.
Spanish Style Houses:
A Spanish colonial home in Southern California
This house is situated on 1.7 acres of beautiful land in Los Angeles, California. Studios OZ Architects and The JRC Group collaborated on this Spanish colonial architecture.
It’s a large Spanish-style mansion with over 20,000 square feet of living space, featuring 7 bedrooms and 9.5 bathrooms. The design is rooted in 1920s Spanish Colonial style homes, with a central courtyard and numerous unique features.
Given its size, the interior is expected to be opulent and luxurious. It is elegant, refined, and inviting. Some areas are impressive, like the master suite, which measures 2,500 square feet, with two bathrooms and large closets.
There is also a massive stone-decorated wine cellar that can hold 7,000 bottles. Additionally, the property boasts a tennis court, a spa, and a swimming pool.
The Sonoma region in California is famous for its estates and historic value. Robert Baumann + Associates designed this Spanish-style mansion to reflect the owners’ personal style and their affinity for Spanish revival architecture.
The site was previously occupied by an old house that the new owners had no interest in preserving. They demolished it and built a slightly bigger Spanish revival house in its place. However, they made sure to preserve as much of the beautiful landscape and trees as possible.
There’s a lovely 3,600 square-foot house here with a big basement and large outdoor terraces and patios. The design predominantly uses traditional and natural materials like stone and wood with iron accents, typical of Spanish revival homes, creating an authentic look.
FAQ:
What defines a Spanish-style home?
Spanish-style architecture, prevalent in the western and southwestern parts of the United States, incorporates elements suited for warm climates. White stucco walls, red tile roofs, and wrought iron accents are key features.
What characterizes a Mediterranean-style house?
Mediterranean-style houses incorporate various architectural influences. They typically have a low-pitched roof, arched doorways and windows, bell towers, wooden support beams, and natural elements.
What’s the difference between Spanish Colonial and Spanish Revival?
Spanish Revival style is influenced by Spanish Colonial period, but it features more ornate decor elements. These often include intricate patterns in tilework and fancy wrought iron elements.
Are Spanish-style homes more expensive?
Some elements of Spanish-style houses make them more expensive. The tiled roof, for example, costs about three times more than a regular roof with shingles.
Mission revival homes are inspired by the Spanish missions built in California during the late 18th century. These homes incorporate features of traditional Spanish architecture brought to the US by settlers. It is also known as California Mission Revival, especially in other regions of the southwestern US.
Spanish Colonial architecture includes various elements.
Spanish style homes evolved during the era of Spanish Colonialism. They utilize local materials, natural elements, and have thick stucco-covered exterior walls. Some variations, such as Pueblo revival homes in New Mexico, may feature adobe walls.
Spanish colonial homes are typically one story with small windows, a flat roof, wooden support beams, and an inner courtyard.
Santa Fe style, also known as Pueblo style, Pueblo revival, or Adobe Revival, is a reflection of Spanish Colonial West combined with Spanish style. These homes incorporate elements from the Pueblo and Hopi Native American tribes.
In conclusion, Spanish style homes have a rich history and unique architectural features derived from Spanish Colonialism and the influence of Native American tribes in the Southwest.
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