Denver’s allure is often seen through the lens of its winter playgrounds, at least initially. 

But with the iconic Rockies serving as the backdrop, Denver’s diverse landscape opens a world of possibilities for homebuyers, from luxury living with mountain views to a fast-paced cosmopolitan scene, complete with world-renowned art museums and famous murals.

Becoming enamored with Denver is easy, but figuring out what kind of dream home to buy can get tricky. 

The city’s historic streets are no strangers to some of America’s legendary architectural flair; you’ll find storied Colonials almost as often as you’ll pass by sleek, Mid-Century Moderns. Below, the Prevu Real Estate team will take you on a tour of some of Denver’s most coveted house styles, from Craftsman Bungalows to Denver’s very own Foursquare Style.

Most popular home styles in Denver

• Craftsman Bungalow

• Tudor

• Queen Anne

• Denver Square (Foursquare)

• Mid-Century Ranch

• Mediterranean Revival

• Cape Cod

• Colonial Revival

Craftsman Bungalow

The Craftsman Bungalow style originated in Pasadena, California, with its roots harkening back to the Arts and Crafts movement that countered Britain’s Industrial Revolution. 

During that period, meticulous craftsmanship fell to the wayside when possibilities of cheaper materials and faster labor became apparent. But the Arts and Crafts movement that followed ushered in the Craftsman style, which became one of the most popular in Denver and the entire country.

The Bungalow version is often a single family home recognized for its classic symmetry, from the clean lines of its low-pitched roofs to the wide porches that encircle the charming two-story design. Craftsman Bungalows are especially a catch if they’re in an area with a lot of direct sunlight. 

The characteristically overhanging roofs are designed to create shade for the signature porches encircling the home so buyers can enjoy a lot of cool outdoor time on the front porch.

Those interested in exploring this style should start their search near Washington Park. Builders have been designing new construction to replicate the classic Craftsman Bungalow in this area. But if you’re keen on finding original builds, visit the Highland neighborhood first.

Tudor

The majestic Tudor style has always been prominent in the architectural repertoire. The iconic, steeply-pitched gabled roofs, large chimneys, and decorative half-timbering are usually the telltale sign of an expensive and exquisite home. 

Typically, Tudor homes are characterized by their distinct asymmetrical layout, with multi-paned windows that often come in groups of two, three, or even four. Often made of brick or stucco with a touch of stone, these homes are highlighted by a dominant front-facing gable that harkens back to their medieval roots. The iconic arched front doors amidst the complex rooflines and decorative chimneys are another charming feature of this style.

Many choose the Tudor style for its rustic interior, as well. While the outside of the house sets the tone with imposing stone and sharp, symmetrical lines, the indoor design often compliments the look with a welcoming canvas of natural wood. 

It’s also common to find exposed rafters in the living or dining areas, and almost every Tudor will likely feature an ornate fireplace. 

You can start your search for Tudors near Crestmoor Park, specifically around 6th Avenue. Montclair, a neighborhood a few blocks away, may also have a stock of similar-styled homes to explore.

Queen Anne

Of all the most popular architectural styles that survived through the ages, few can come close to the prominence of the Victorian style. But not everyone knows how many iterations the Victorian style can have.

Gothic Revival, Shingle, Edwardian, and Italianate are all technically under the umbrella of Victorian architecture. The one that took hold in Denver is called Queen Anne.

Arguably one of the most popular Victorian styles, Queen Anne demonstrates an unmatched artistry in home design. If you’re looking for a timeless masterpiece and something that can symbolize your taste, Queen Anne homes should be at the top of your list.

Defined by their steeply-pitched, irregular rooflines and partial or full-width asymmetrical porches, these houses often feature large bay windows and generous use of ornamentation. 

The whimsical, sometimes eccentric features, such as intricate woodwork, towers, turrets, and wrap-around porches, make Queen Anne homes in Denver an iconic showcase of Victorian flamboyance.

Denver’s Capitol Hill and Baker neighborhoods are known for their iconic Queen Anne houses. But the Potter Highlands Historic District and West Highland will be your best bet to get a full experience of what these homes can offer.

Denver Square (Foursquare)

The style now known as Denver Square spent many years without an official title, even though it enjoyed a peak of popularity in the early 1900s up until the 1930s. 

It eventually became known as the American Foursquare, which, as the name suggests, leaned heavily into a boxy, square design that enamored homebuyers of the era due to the charming, neat look most of these homes showcased.  

Foursquares are known for their boxy design, typically featuring a four-room floor plan over two stories. The houses are almost always square and often feature a centered dormer window in the front. Front porches typically span the full width of the house, and the interior will usually feature a central staircase. 

What makes the Denver Square version so unique is using yellow or red brick instead of wood as a foundational and exterior material. Those who want to claim a piece of Denver history in their home search should explore near City Park and Denver’s Historic districts. Capitol Hill, Highland, and Washington Park are also viable neighborhoods to explore.  

Mid-Century Ranch

The Mid-Century Ranch style emerged in the post-war era as the embodiment of the American Dream, bringing a taste of warm California to the frosty Mid-West. 

Sometimes known as California Ranch or Rambler, these homes became an architectural staple in American neighborhoods from the 1950s through the 1970s. Their linear, modern style and ground-hugging profile reflects an easy-living philosophy, a far cry from the more ornate Victorian homes.

Characteristic features of the Mid-Century Ranch include a single-story layout, an asymmetrical rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped design, and simple, open floor plans integrated with the outdoor space. Large windows and sliding glass doors were designed to flood the homes’ interiors with natural light, becoming a trademark feature of the Mid-Century Ranch. These homes often include patios and an attached garage, as well.

Harvey Park and Virginia Village became the hotspots of Mid-Century Modern homes in Denver. Among these, you will likely find classic examples of the Mid-Century Ranch.

Mediterranean Revival

The Mediterranean Revival style's light, mellow color palette, and design are often associated with beaches and the sea. 

Denver’s signature scape of snowy-peaked mountains seems like it would clash with such a style, but the Mediterranean Revival design delivered a distinct European charm to various Denver neighborhoods.

The style’s most prominent features are often low-pitched, red-tiled roofs, white stucco walls, and enclosed courtyards. Of course, many of these features are negotiable, and the design can be adjusted to blend smoother with the surrounding area.

Either way, no home is truly Mediterranean Revival without some ornamental detailing. Doors and windows often feature rounded arches, balconies, and intricate tile work. Interiors usually boast large, formal entryways that open into various common rooms. Courtyards and patios also play an essential role, echoing the Mediterranean tradition of outdoor living.

In Denver, these homes can often be found in South Park Hill and Sloan’s Lake, while newer builds can be spotted in Lakewood and Denver Creek.

Cape Cod

Reminiscent of the New England coastal houses of the 17th century, Cape Cod architecture enriches Denver with a uniquely American home style. 

Since their inception, Cape Cod homes became renowned for their simplicity and functionality, sporting a symmetrical design, steep roofs, and a central front door flanked by multi-pane windows. The idea behind their design was a foundation that could handle the stormy weather of the Atlantic on the New England coast. This design can be quite useful for those shopping in the snowier areas of Denver.

Cape Cod homes are typically one and a half-story homes and offer ample space for a loft or additional bedrooms. The homes sometimes include a large central chimney linked to a fireplace in the main living area.  

No specific neighborhoods have a concentration of Cape Cod homes, so you’ll have to broaden your search if you want to find one. However, if you’re keen on seeing them first before starting to look, Glendale and Southwest Aurora are known to have a stock of Cape Cods.

Colonial Revival

Denver's Colonial Revival homes pay homage to the legendary architectural styles of America's colonial past. This style, popularized from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, exhibits a refined elegance through its symmetry and simplicity.

Typical Colonial Revival homes feature a rectangular shape, a medium-pitched roof, and a centrally located front door. The facade displays an even, symmetrical arrangement of windows on either side of the entrance. Inside, rooms are evenly proportioned and arranged around a central hallway that often runs the length of the house.

Some Denver Colonial Revival homes include decorative elements such as porches, dormer windows, and elaborate front doors. However, the overall aesthetic that made Colonials popular in the first place remains: ample space and understated elegance. 

The cozy, residential pockets of the Central Park neighborhood in Denver should be the first stop for buyers interested in spotting a selection of Colonial Revivals.

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