New England Farmhouse: An In-depth Look
Definition
A New England Farmhouse refers to a classic early-American style of house that emerged in the northeastern region of the United States. Characterized by its simple and box-shaped design, this type of farmhouse typically features white clapboard siding and a steeply pitched roof designed to help shed heavy snow—a practical necessity for the harsh New England winters.
Examples
- Classic Farmhouse in Massachusetts: A two-story house with white clapboard siding, a steep gable roof, and minimal ornamental detailing.
- Restored Farmhouse in Vermont: Maintains the original box shape and steep roof, but includes modern amenities while preserving historical integrity.
- Farmhouse in New Hampshire: Features wide plank wooden floors, large fireplace, white clapboard, and a steep roof, showcasing the quintessential elements of this architectural style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What materials are commonly used in New England Farmhouses? A: The most common material for exterior siding is white clapboard. Interiors often feature wooden floors and large fireplaces.
Q: Why do New England Farmhouses have steep roofs? A: The steep roofs are designed to efficiently shed heavy snowfall, preventing roof accumulation and structural damage.
Q: Can New England Farmhouses be modernized while retaining their original charm? A: Yes, many homeowners update interiors with modern amenities while preserving exterior elements like white clapboard siding and steep roofs to maintain historical authenticity.
Q: Are New England Farmhouses expensive to maintain? A: Maintenance can vary depending on the condition and location of the property, as well as the materials used. Generally, older homes might require more upkeep to preserve their historic features.
Related Terms
- Clapboard: A type of wooden siding used for exterior cladding of buildings, notably in New England Farmhouses.
- Gable Roof: A roof with two sloping sides and a gable at each end, commonly found in traditional New England Farmhouse designs.
- Colonial Architecture: Another early-American architectural style influencing New England Farmhouses, characterized by symmetry and simple geometric forms.
Online Resources
References
- “A Field Guide to American Houses” by Virginia McAlester
- “New England Style: The Architecture, Heritage and Interiors” by New England Historical Society
- “The Houses of New England” by William Morgan
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Big House: A Century in the Life of an American Summer Home” by George Howe Colt
- “Living in New England” by Stanley Schuler and Edward J. Skillin Jr.
- “The Simple Home: The Architecture of Early American Houses” by Jonathan Hale
Real Estate Basics: New England Farmhouse Fundamentals Quiz
### What is the primary material used for the exterior siding of a New England Farmhouse?
- [x] White clapboard
- [ ] Red brick
- [ ] Stucco
- [ ] Vinyl siding
> **Explanation:** The traditional material for exterior siding is white clapboard, which is a defining feature of New England Farmhouses.
### What type of roof is typical for New England Farmhouses?
- [ ] Flat roof
- [ ] Mansard roof
- [x] Steep pitched roof
- [ ] Hip roof
> **Explanation:** New England Farmhouses typically feature a steep pitched roof to help shed heavy snow, a practical consideration for the region's winters.
### Which of the following characteristics best describes a New England Farmhouse?
- [ ] Elaborate ornamental detailing
- [ ] Asymmetrical design
- [ ] Modern glass facades
- [x] Simple and box-shaped
> **Explanation:** New England Farmhouses are known for their simple and box-shaped design, reflecting early-American architectural simplicity.
### For what purpose is the steep roof design in New England Farmhouses?
- [ ] Aesthetic purposes
- [ ] Interior space utilization
- [x] To shed heavy snow
- [ ] To reduce construction costs
> **Explanation:** The steep roof design is primarily for functional purposes, specifically to efficiently shed heavy snow and prevent roof damage.
### Can New England Farmhouses be modernized without losing their historic charm?
- [x] Yes, with careful renovation
- [ ] No, any modernization destroys historical authenticity
- [ ] It is impossible to modernize these homes
- [ ] Modernization is unnecessary for these homes
> **Explanation:** Many homeowners choose to modernize the interiors while preserving the historic exterior elements such as white clapboard and steep roofs, thus maintaining the farmhouse's historical charm.
### What kind of flooring is commonly found in the interior of a traditional New England Farmhouse?
- [ ] Carpet
- [ ] Concrete
- [x] Wide plank wooden floors
- [ ] Tile
> **Explanation:** Traditional New England Farmhouses often feature wide plank wooden floors, adding to the rustic and historical feel of these homes.
### Which early-American architectural style has influenced New England Farmhouses?
- [ ] Victorian
- [ ] Georgian
- [x] Colonial
- [ ] Mediterranean
> **Explanation:** New England Farmhouses were significantly influenced by Colonial architecture, which is characterized by symmetry and simple geometric forms.
### Are New England Farmhouses commonly found outside the northeastern United States?
- [ ] Yes, they are prevalent across the entire U.S.
- [ ] They are found worldwide.
- [x] They are predominantly found in the northeastern U.S.
- [ ] They are only found in large urban areas.
> **Explanation:** New England Farmhouses are predominantly found in the northeastern United States, a reflection of the region’s early-American settler history.
### What is a common feature inside New England Farmhouses?
- [x] Large fireplaces
- [ ] Spiral staircases
- [ ] Tech-integrated walls
- [ ] Indoor pools
> **Explanation:** Large fireplaces are a common interior feature in New England Farmhouses, providing warmth and a focal point in the living spaces.
### Why might maintenance costs for a New England Farmhouse vary?
- [ ] Because of modern technology integration
- [x] Due to the age of the property and materials used
- [ ] Because of their location in urban areas
- [ ] Because they are new constructions
> **Explanation:** Maintenance costs can vary depending on the age of the property, the materials used, and the preservation of historical features, which may require more upkeep.
