Are you looking to buy or build a new house in Wisconsin and want to know what type of house to choose? Then you’ve come to the right place. Our state is known for its diverse topography, from rolling hills to flat plains, and the houses here have been carefully crafted to suit its climate and terrain.
Wisconsinites have a unique taste; according to a recent survey, some of the house styles we find most attractive are not very popular nationwide. For instance, if you truly want to impress the neighbors, you would probably be better off with a colonial house style than a cape cod style.
Without further ado, let’s dive in! Below are the most popular house styles in Wisconsin:
Farmhouse Style
According to a report published by HomeAdvisor in June 2022, the colonial house style was the most preferred by Wisconsin’s residents. This popularity means colonial-style home listings have gotten pretty expensive recently, with some listings costing as much as $3,500,000. But you’ll still find many homes within the $300,000-$600,000 price range.
Colonial-style houses are typically characterized by symmetrical facades, clapboard siding, and gabled roofs, although they’re also compatible with popular roofing styles like gambrel and hip. Originating in the early American colonies, the style has since become a timeless classic. It is practical for Wisconsin’s climate, as it typically features a pitched roof that can help prevent snow buildup during the winter months.
Craftsman Style
The craftsman style is a trendy choice in the northern regions of Wisconsin, e.g., Green Bay and Appleton, where it complements the natural beauty of the area. This style features a low-pitched roof, overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and tapered columns. The interiors are often opulent, boasting built-in furniture, wooden detailing, and large kitchens.
Craftsman house designs provide excellent insulation during the winter months, making them suitable for Wisconsin’s climate. Constructing a Craftsman-style home in Wisconsin can cost anywhere from $250,000 to $750,000, while houses for sale are often priced between $200,000 and $1,000,000.
Tudor Style
The Tudor style is known for its traditional charm and elegance. Featuring steep-pitched gable roofs, half-timbering, and an asymmetrical floor plan, it is popular in the eastern region of Wisconsin. The interior is characterized by ornate woodwork, exposed beams in the ceilings, leaded glass windows, and decorative chimneys.
Tudor homes are also good for Wisconsin’s climate, as they are designed to keep heat inside during the winter months. Adored for being grand and noble, Tudor homes’ prices are typically on the higher end. While listings can go for $300,000, houses are often priced at or above $1,000,000.
Contemporary Style
The contemporary house style is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and an emphasis on natural light and space. Contemporary-style homes have increased in popularity in recent years, particularly among younger homebuyers. Its modern and minimalist aesthetic is a welcome contrast to Wisconsin’s traditional styles.
Contemporary homes typically feature large windows, open floor plans, and a focus on outdoor living spaces. Exteriors are often bathed in materials such as metal, glass, and concrete. Unsurprisingly, the style is particularly popular in urban areas like Madison, but it can also be spotted in a few suburban regions.
Like all the house styles listed here, the contemporary is practical for Wisconsin’s climate. The large windows and open floor plans allow for plenty of natural light, which can help offset the shorter days in the winter. The design also allows for better air circulation, which regulates indoor temperature and humidity levels. Additionally, the use of materials such as concrete and metal can provide excellent insulation during the colder months.
Contemporary-style homes in Madison, Wisconsin, have a median listing price of $400,000 and can get as expensive as $1,200,000.
Housing in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know
Getting a new home in a state like Wisconsin is pretty economical. Housing is much more affordable here than in many other parts of the country. Based on data from major real estate bodies in Wisconsin, houses sell for an average of $270,000-$325,000. Pretty neat. But you also want to make sure you’re getting enough value for what you pay. Picking a beautiful housing style that suits the topography and climate and/or choosing a good local architect, are necessary to achieve that.
