Picture this – a European villa in a warm seaside town, surrounded by ocean views, a patio, and large windows that seemingly pulls in the landscape around you into your home. With arched windows, wrought-iron details, and a blend of warm-toned, tiled roofs, the Mediterranean style house stands out amongst the many popular home styles across the US. To make your European villa dream come true, find out what makes Mediterranean style homes stand the test of time and how you can find one for sale near you.
What is a Mediterranean house?
Mediterranean houses are a home style that takes inspiration from historic European architecture, often from Spanish and Italian influence. These homes are reminiscent of villas found in seaside Mediterranean towns, with their red roof tiles, stucco exteriors, and blend of indoor-outdoor living.
History of the Mediterranean style house
Mediterranean style homes originated in the 1920s as part of the Roaring Twenties obsession with luxury, wealth, and leisurely lifestyles. This gave rise to many seaside resorts, which took inspiration from Mediterranean architecture. While resorts and hotels in the US popularized this architectural style, architects in California and Florida, such as Addison Mizner, Bertram Goodhue, and Paul Williams saw the appeal of this house style and began to design Mediterranean inspired homes.
Where are Mediterranean style homes located?
Mediterranean homes are most popular in warmer locations with long histories of Spanish influence, such as Santa Barbara, CA, Pasadena, CA, Austin, TX, and Miami, FL. One of the most recognizable examples of a Mediterranean mansion is the iconic Hearst Castle in San Simeon, CA. Unlike widely popular home styles like the ranch home, which can be found across the country, Mediterranean homes are more concentrated in states like California, Florida, and Texas.
Mediterranean house plans
Mediterranean homes have many overarching themes that are still prominent today,…