Coastal New England architecture is a reflection of craftsmanship, tradition, and resilience. From New England colonial homes built by early settlers to the charming shingle-style homes that define seaside living, the region’s homes tell the story of evolving design, materials, and lifestyle preferences. In Rockingham County, where the coast meets history, homes range from 1700s houses with hand-hewn logs to elegant 1800s homes that showcase Federal and Greek Revival styles. Today, homeowners and builders face the challenge of preserving old New England homes while integrating modern comforts and energy-efficient upgrades.
Oxland Builders specializes in working with New England historic homes, blending colonial architecture and contemporary design to honor the past while creating functional, livable spaces for today’s families. In this blog, we’ll explore the defining characteristics of coastal New England architecture, its evolution over the centuries, and what makes these homes so timeless.
Early New England Homes: Colonial Architecture and Timber-Framed Construction
1600s–1700s: The Birth of New England Colonial Architecture
When settlers first arrived in New England, they needed homes that could withstand harsh winters, salty coastal air, and the test of time. This led to the rise of New England colonial architecture, which prioritized practicality, simplicity, and durability. The earliest homes, often referred to as saltbox houses or Cape Cod homes, were small, symmetrical, and constructed using hand-hewn logs or rough-sawn timber from local forests.
One of the most distinctive features of these 1700s houses is their timber-framed construction, which relied on heavy wooden beams, mortise-and-tenon joinery, and wooden pegs instead of nails. Unlike modern framing, which uses standardized materials, early builders shaped beams by hand, resulting in slightly uneven but incredibly strong structures. This technique gave homes their characteristic exposed wooden beams and posed challenges for future remodeling—many of these homes contain load-bearing walls that can’t be easily moved without major structural reinforcements.
Other defining features of early New England homes include:
- Central Chimneys – Large, multi-flue brick chimneys to provide heat throughout the home.
- Small-Paned Windows – Multi-light wood windows, often with leaded glass.
- Steep Gable Roofs – Designed to shed heavy snowfall in winter.
- Wide Plank Floors – Durable wood floors, often made from local oak or pine.
Despite their charm, old New England homes from this era often require significant structural updates to accommodate modern living. Original timber framing doesn’t easily lend itself to open floor plans, and outdated mechanical systems (plumbing, wiring, insulation) often need to be replaced. However, when restored thoughtfully, these homes maintain a historic warmth and authenticity that newer builds can’t replicate.
Architectural Styles of the 19th Century
As construction methods evolved, so did the architectural styles that shaped New England's historic homes. The 1800s saw a shift from the simplicity of colonial architecture to more ornate and decorative designs. Here’s a closer look at some of the most iconic styles from this period.
Federal Style (Late 1700s–Mid-1800s)
- Inspired by Georgian architecture, but with a more refined and symmetrical look.
- Features tall, narrow windows, decorative cornices, and grand entryways with fanlights.
- Typically built with brick or wood clapboard exteriors.
Common renovation challenges: Many Federal-style homes were built with horsehair plaster walls and hand-carved moldings, which can be fragile and require expert care during restoration.
Greek Revival (1820s–1860s)
- Modeled after ancient Greek temples, with columned porticos and gabled roofs.
- Popular in Rockingham County’s historic districts, particularly in town centers.
- Often painted white or pale tones to mimic the look of classical marble buildings.
Common renovation challenges: Many Greek Revival homes were built before modern insulation and HVAC systems, making energy efficiency a key concern when updating these homes.
Victorian Influence (Mid-Late 1800s)
- Marked by asymmetrical facades, bay windows, decorative trim, and turrets.
- More elaborate than previous styles, featuring stained glass, intricate woodwork, and patterned shingles.
- The use of bold exterior colors—a shift from the muted tones of earlier homes.
Common renovation challenges: Restoring Victorian homes often involves custom millwork and period-accurate detailing, as well as modernizing wiring, plumbing, and insulation without compromising historical character.
The 1900s Boom: Modernization Meets Tradition
Early 20th-Century Homes: Practicality & Mass Production
As the 20th century began, home construction in Rockingham County and across coastal New England shifted toward efficiency and accessibility. While traditional New England architecture remained influential, the rise of factory-milled materials and new building techniques allowed for faster, more affordable home construction.
One of the biggest changes was the decline of balloon framing in favor of platform framing, where each floor was built separately. This method improved fire safety and structural integrity while making constructing homes with standardized materials like sawn lumber and pre-manufactured millwork easier.
Craftsman & Bungalow Homes (1900s–1930s)
- Low-pitched roofs with wide eaves and exposed rafters.
- Handcrafted details, including built-in cabinetry, window seats, and wainscoting.
- Emphasis on natural materials like stone, wood, and brick.
Common renovation challenges: Many Craftsman homes were built with plaster walls and ample woodwork, requiring careful restoration. Additionally, early 20th-century homes often have shallow foundations, which may need reinforcement to support modern updates.
Colonial Revival (1890s–1940s)
- A nod to New England colonial architecture, but with modern conveniences.
- Features symmetrical facades, classical columns, and central hallways.
- Expanded floor plans with larger kitchens, bathrooms, and formal dining rooms.
Common renovation challenges: Homeowners looking to update Colonial Revival homes often struggle with low ceilings, smaller bedrooms, and outdated electrical systems that weren’t built for today’s appliances.
Mid-Century Development: The Suburban Boom
After World War II, the United States experienced a housing explosion driven by returning veterans, economic prosperity, and the rise of suburban neighborhoods. With its mix of coastal beauty and proximity to urban centers, Rockingham County became a prime location for mid-century home development.
Ranch-Style Homes (1940s–1960s)
- Single-story, open floor plans designed for easy living.
- Large picture windows and sliding glass doors connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Simpler designs, often featuring brick or wood siding.
Common renovation challenges: Many ranch homes have small kitchens and low ceilings, making modern updates focused on expanding layouts and improving natural light.
Split-Level Homes (1950s–1970s)
- Multi-level layouts designed to separate living and sleeping areas.
- Often feature integrated garages and basement-level family rooms.
- Exterior materials like stone, brick, and vertical wood siding became popular.
Common renovation challenges: Split-level homes often have awkward layouts that can be challenging to reconfigure for today’s open-concept living preferences.
Contemporary Coastal New England Architecture
Blending Historic Charm with Modern Luxury
While coastal New England architecture is deeply rooted in tradition, modern homeowners embrace a blend of old and new to create homes that honor the past while incorporating modern conveniences. In Rockingham County, this means preserving historic details while making updates for comfort, efficiency, and durability.
One of the biggest trends in remodeling New England historic homes is maintaining original architectural elements—such as wide plank flooring, exposed wooden beams, and detailed millwork while introducing modern materials and layouts. Many homeowners are opting for:
- Open-concept interiors replace smaller, compartmentalized rooms common in older homes.
- Expanded kitchens with large islands provide a better flow for cooking and entertaining.
- Larger windows bring in more natural light, contrasting the smaller windows often found in early New England homes.
- Energy-efficient materials like insulated siding, double-paned windows, and modern HVAC systems improve sustainability.
Curious about the cost of a home remodel in this region? Explore the current averages and the factors that influence it here.
Classic Meets Contemporary on the Seacoast
Another significant aspect of modern vs. old architecture is the push for smart home integration. While traditional colonial architecture emphasizes symmetry and craftsmanship, today’s homeowners want app-controlled lighting, climate control, and security systems, all expertly incorporated into historical homes without disrupting their charm.
The coastal influence also plays a significant role in contemporary design. Many homeowners embrace shingle-style exteriors, coastal color palettes, and expansive porches to capture the essence of seaside living while ensuring their homes remain durable against New England’s harsh winters and salty air.
Honoring New England’s Architectural Legacy in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts’ Seacoast Region
If you’re considering a home renovation, addition, or restoration on the Seacoast, our team is here to help you navigate the process while honoring the architectural character that makes your home special. Contact us today to start a conversation about your project. Let’s bring New England’s rich architectural history into the future together.
