Friday, July 13, 2012

Building in Style - Mediterranean Architecture

The flexibility of many home builders today gives you a wide range of choices when it comes to modern home architecture. Today's houses are more spacious and simpler due to application of wise space use in the house. There is also a significant change in the materials for house construction. You will be amazed with the various wonderful architectural designs of houses nowadays. Knowing the popular home architecture style that is popular today will help you choose the right one for you and your family. It is recommended for buyers who are seeking to purchase a house to have an idea about an authentic examples of rich and complex architecture used before going in for a deal.

Let us take a look at some background aspects about the Mediterranean region. Because of its location linking Europe, Asia and Africa, the Mediterranean region is home to an amazing diversity of peoples and cultures. Added to that, the occupation of Spain for hundreds of years has resulted to an eclectic architectural style that dominates Spanish style homes. The robust trade, migration patterns and even warfare and conquest have all contributed to the rich and varied history and culture of the Mediterranean region.

What has come to be termed "Mediterranean architecture" has its roots in a melange of lifestyle, culture, historical building styles, climate and topography of the region. The Spanish style house always seeks to exploit location and views, especially sea views. You'll see Spanish houses tucked away on rocky hillsides that tower above the sea or are proudly situated on glorious white sand beaches. Roof terraces are common, again to take advantage of the view.

Since sites for Spanish style homes are often hilly, rocky and uneven, the architecture tends toward low-slung and boxy designs with flat roofs. Windows are situated to take maximum advantage of both the view and the whole house seems to just blend into its surroundings. A typical Spanish style house has thick walls faced with white or light colored stucco to help keep the interior cool. Classical Roman features like columns and porches firmly anchor the Spanish style home in a vibrant historical context. Red clay tile roofs are typical and there are usually no overhanging eaves. Arches are integral design features and often appear above windows, doors, entryways and porches.

Spanish house styles tend to be asymmetrical in shape with multiple wings. Hip roofs are common. Details like carved doors and carved stonework, spiral columns and tiled walls and floors are also highly characteristic of Mediterranean architecture. Courtyards are prevalent and often function as outdoor rooms, making for easy transitions between outdoor and indoor spaces.

Fountains and water features grace the courtyards, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the arid climate. Spanish style houses give an overall impression of oneness with their surroundings. Spanish style homes continue to be popular in the present scenario due to their authenticity that reflect the best of Mediterranean architecture, culture and character.

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