Home Style Guide: Tudor House

Tudor architecture saw a resurgence in popularity in the 1900s, and nowadays, we recognize them as an epitome of the country manor. What makes a Tudor home in style? Let’s take a closer look.

What is a Tudor Style House?

When designing a new home in the Tudor style, there are several key characteristics that cannot be left out.

Decorative Half-Timbering

The off-color planks arranged vertically, horizontally, and diagonally along the outside of this home is a trademark of Tudor style. While not structurally necessary, the design element calls back to English country manors and adds a cozy touch.

Steep Roofs with Multiple Gables

While the roofline isn’t nearly as eclectic as a Victorian, these homes still display multiple gables – the pointed part of the roof – facing in different directions. This element adds to the overall imposing nature of Tudor style houses.

Multi-Story Structures

While Tudor cottages can be one or one and one half stories high, a true Tudor-inspired home is two or more stories. These are perfect for large families, homeowners who love to entertain, or those who simply want the space to stretch out and relax.

In addition to these points, most Tudor homes are made from an array of different materials such as brick, stucco, and wood. They often have a chimney, and the multi-paned windows are intentionally designed to recall medieval architecture.

How do you Decorate a Tudor Style House?

There are plenty of ways to embrace the Tudor aesthetic – or mock Tudor, as revivals are referred to – without giving up common comforts and modern design schemes.

Dramatic Ceilings

Exposed beaming was originally a structural necessity, but nowadays, homeowners are bringing the look back for aesthetic purposes. Install dark wood beams horizontally across white ceilings for an eye-catching touch; for low ceilings, a coffered ceiling painted in light complimentary colors is a great choice.

Display the Rose

The red and white Tudor rose is iconic of this dynasty. A way to nod your head toward the history behind the House of Tudor is to incorporate roses, but go for a modern touch: Wallpaper on a statement wall with a red and white watercolor rose, or go for a large statement piece designed after the dynasty’s symbol.

Utilize Natural Light

Traditional Tudor homes were often dark, with windows hidden by heavy drapes to control drafts. With the modern desire to embrace nature, this isn’t a trend we want to replicate. Instead, have the window designs representative of Tudor architecture – multi-paned in repeating squares or diamonds. Forego the thick curtains for sheer drapes or window treatments that protect privacy while allowing the sunlight inside to flood the room.

Go for Warm Colors

Tudor homes were often painted in warm colors, emphasizing the comfortable vibes of these structures. Go with shades of red, yellow, and orange, but be cautious about going too dark or too bright. Dark walls with heavy wood beams and thick drapes in front of the windows will make the room uncomfortably dark for most, while using colors that are too bright will further separate the home from Tudor aesthetics – not a bad thing, but just something of which to be aware. 

Balanced Blend of Modern and Traditional

Tudor style homes continue to entrance homeowners. While they’re more common in rural areas due to their country house origin, these homes can be modernized to fit in almost any environment. Get started finding your new home today, and find more design inspiration on our social media!