The Charm and Character of Garrison Style Houses

Garrison style houses are one of the most distinct architectural styles in America. These homes were first built during the colonial era, and they have since evolved to become one of the most popular home designs in the country. Garrison style homes are known for their distinctive roofline, which features an overhanging second story that extends beyond the first floor. This unique design gives these homes a charming and elegant appearance that is hard to miss.

If you're considering buying or building a new house, it's worth taking a closer look at the Garrison style. In this article, we'll explore the history, features, and benefits of Garrison style homes. We'll also provide some tips on how to decorate and maintain these homes to ensure they remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

1. Origins of Garrison Style Houses

The Garrison style originated in the early colonial period in New England. Back then, most houses were built with a steep pitched roof to help shed snow and rainwater. However, this design made it difficult to create a usable second story. To solve this problem, builders began constructing homes with a lower-pitched roof for the main section of the house and an overhanging second story that extended beyond the first floor. This design allowed for more space on the second floor and created a unique and attractive appearance.

2. Distinctive Features of Garrison Style Houses

There are several key features that make Garrison style houses stand out from other architectural styles. Some of these features include:

• Overhanging second story: As mentioned earlier, the overhanging second story is the defining feature of Garrison style homes. This design creates a sheltered entryway and provides additional living space on the second floor.
• Symmetrical facade: Garrison style homes typically have a symmetrical facade with evenly spaced windows and doors.
• Central chimney: Many Garrison style homes have a large central chimney that serves multiple fireplaces throughout the house.
• Wood clapboard siding: Traditional Garrison style homes were built with wood clapboard siding. This type of siding is still popular today and can be painted or stained to complement the home's design.

3. Advantages of Garrison Style Houses

Garrison style houses offer several advantages over other types of homes. Some of these benefits include:

• Unique and attractive appearance: The overhanging second story and symmetrical facade of Garrison style homes create a charming and elegant appearance that is hard to match.
• Additional living space: The overhanging second story provides additional living space without increasing the home's footprint, making it an ideal choice for those who want a larger home but have limited space.
• Energy efficiency: Garrison style homes are known for their energy efficiency. The design of the roof helps to regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.
• Resale value: Garrison style homes are highly sought after by buyers due to their unique design and historical significance. This makes them a wise investment for homeowners who plan to sell their home in the future.

4. Decor and Maintenance Tips for Garrison Style Houses

Decorating and maintaining a Garrison style home requires some special considerations. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose traditional decor: To maintain the historical charm of your Garrison style home, it's best to stick with traditional decor styles. Consider using antique furniture, classic patterns, and muted colors to create a timeless look.
• Keep the exterior well-maintained: The wood clapboard siding on Garrison style homes requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and damage. Be sure to inspect the siding regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible.
• Use appropriate roofing materials: The overhanging second story on Garrison style homes requires special roofing materials to ensure proper drainage and ventilation. Consult with a roofing expert to determine the best materials for your home.
• Add modern amenities: While Garrison style homes have a historical feel, there's no reason why you can't add modern amenities to make your home more comfortable and functional. Consider adding central air conditioning, updated plumbing, or a smart home system to improve your quality of life.

5.

Garrison style houses are an excellent choice for homeowners who want a unique and charming home that offers plenty of space and historical significance. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Garrison style home is well-maintained and decorated to perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the history of Garrison style houses?

As mentioned earlier, Garrison style houses originated in the early colonial period in New England. They were designed to provide additional living space on the second floor without increasing the home's footprint.

Q2. What are the defining features of Garrison style houses?

The defining feature of Garrison style homes is the overhanging second story that extends beyond the first floor. Other features include a symmetrical facade, central chimney, and wood clapboard siding.

Q3. Are Garrison style houses energy-efficient?

Yes, Garrison style homes are known for their energy efficiency. The design of the roof helps to regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.

Q4. How do I maintain the wood clapboard siding on my Garrison style home?

Wood clapboard siding requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and damage. Be sure to inspect the siding regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible.

Q5. Can I add modern amenities to my Garrison style home?

Yes, there's no reason why you can't add modern amenities to your Garrison style home to improve your quality of life. Consult with a professional to determine the best way to incorporate these amenities into your home's design.

Q6. Are Garrison style homes expensive to build?

The cost of building a Garrison style home will depend on several factors, such as location, size, and materials used. However, Garrison style homes are generally more affordable than other types of homes due to their efficient use of space.

Q7. What is the resale value of a Garrison style home?

Garrison style homes are highly sought after by buyers due to their unique design and historical significance. This makes them a wise investment for homeowners who plan to sell their home in the future.

Q8. Can I decorate my Garrison style home with modern decor?

While it's best to stick with traditional decor styles to maintain the historical charm of your Garrison style home, there's no reason why you can't incorporate some modern elements into your decor. Just be sure to balance modern and traditional elements to create a cohesive look.

Q9. What roofing materials are best for a Garrison style home?

The overhanging second story on Garrison style homes requires special roofing materials to ensure proper drainage and ventilation. Consult with a roofing expert to determine the best materials for your home.

Q10. How can I make my Garrison style home more energy-efficient?

There are several ways to improve the energy efficiency of your Garrison style home, such as adding insulation, upgrading windows and doors, and installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system.