The Evolution of House Designs in the UK

From the exposed timber framework of Tudor cottages to the floor to ceiling windows of modern houses, domestic architecture in the UK has undertaken many changes throughout the years. Keep reading to learn about some of the distinctive house styles found in the UK across the centuries and their characteristics.

Tudor Houses

Tudor houses are notorious for having exposed timber frames. These were typically cut by hand, resulting in a lack of symmetrical framework - this characteristic is a quick and easy way to identify an original Tudor house compared to a replicated design.



Another feature many Tudor houses have is a jetty. This is where the upper floors of the house project out and overhang the lower floor with the support of horizontal beaming. This was a popular way to increase floor space within the house without the need for building out into the street.

Victorian Houses

A staple feature of Victorian houses is their bay windows. Following the arrival of plate glass, the popularity of bay windows grew rapidly in Victorian architecture, flooding living spaces and reception rooms with natural lighting.

On the outside, Victorian houses are known for their decorative and colourful (often red) brickwork. Many Victorians incorporated designs into their brickwork to flaunt their wealth and status.

On the inside, Victorian houses boast high ceilings. This is done to give the illusion that a room is larger than it actually is. Although, in lavish properties, which are not short on space, this is taken one step further with the addition of intricate ceiling designs - another way to display wealth.

Modern Houses

Houses today aren’t quite as easily definable as being in a specific era of design compared to houses of the past. However, there are certain housing features that we see today which are a sign of the times.

For example, floor to ceiling windows have gained increasing popularity in recent years. These are a feature of many new-builds, with people wanting to create an open feel and promote copious levels of natural light in their space.

The integration of sustainable features are also common to see on modern houses, with the addition of solar panels seen on many roofs for those who want to power their home using renewable energy. Thatched roofs have also made a reappearance thanks to sustainable mindsets; people have identified thatched roofs as a sustainable roofing method, which also fits into the quaint, rustic style - one of the circulating house design trends.

Open plan housing is another rising commonality in new houses. More and more people are opting for houses with open floor plans, or renovating their own homes to achieve as such, to make their living space feel larger and more inviting.

More so than adhering to a singular design, modern housing is all about offering choice. Whether you want to design a sustainable house, or incorporate historical design influences into your home, residential architects can create a house design to suit your needs and wishes.

House Design Plans in Birmingham

If you are based in Birmingham and are looking for architectural assistance with your new home, Integrated Designs & Associates is the company for you. We offer a range of domestic services that will cater to your needs, turning your dream house into reality. Get in touch with us today to find out more about who we are and the quality services we provide!