5 Exterior Styles to Make Your Home Stand Out
A thoughtfully chosen exterior style has the power to make your home feel timeless, modern, or somewhere uniquely in between. From the elegance of French Provincial to the breezy sophistication of Hamptons style, each design approach brings something special to the table.
Let’s explore five popular exterior styles and what makes each one distinctive, so you can find the perfect look to make your home stand out.
1. French New Provincial
The French New Provincial style is inspired by the picturesque countryside homes of rural France, combining rustic charm with refined elegance. This look is characterised by symmetrical layouts, steep-pitched roofs, and a neutral colour palette with whites, creams, and soft greys.
French Provincial homes often incorporate natural materials like stone, timber, and wrought iron, creating a warm, inviting exterior with a timeless aesthetic.
Decorative elements such as arched windows, Juliet balconies, and shutters complete the look, making this style ideal for those seeking understated luxury.
Key Elements:
Symmetrical design with a steep roof
Soft, neutral tones like cream, grey, and white
Natural materials: stone, timber, and iron details
Charming features like arched windows and shutters
2. NeoClassical
Classique by Verde Homes
NeoClassical architecture draws on the grandeur and symmetry of Greek and Roman designs, exuding a sense of formality and elegance.
Often associated with grand homes and stately buildings, this style features tall columns, pediments, and a balanced, symmetrical layout that radiates sophistication.
The NeoClassical palette tends toward light, understated colours like white, cream, and pastel shades, which enhance the style’s sense of grandeur without overwhelming the space.
Key Elements:
Grand columns and symmetrical facades
Decorative friezes and detailed pediments
Balanced proportions with a classic, formal layout
Light, neutral tones that add to the refined look
3. Hamptons
Hamptons style brings a relaxed, coastal vibe reminiscent of the beachfront homes in Long Island, New York.
Known for its airy spaces, wide verandas, and use of natural textures, the Hamptons look embraces a bright, fresh colour palette of whites, soft blues, and greys. Timber, stone, and shiplap detailing are common, adding warmth and texture.
Large windows let in ample natural light, creating an inviting, laid-back environment that’s perfect for beachside or suburban settings. This style strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, making it a favourite choice for many Australian homes.
Key Elements:
Light, beachy colour palette with greys and soft blues
Spacious verandas for a relaxed, outdoor living feel
Timber finishes, shiplap walls, and stone details
Large windows that flood the space with natural light
4. Contemporary
Contemporary design embraces simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on function, making it perfect for modern living. This style favours open spaces, large windows, and minimal ornamentation, with a neutral or monochromatic colour scheme to keep things fresh and uncluttered.
Contemporary homes often use a mix of materials like metal, glass, and concrete, highlighting a sense of lightness and efficiency.
With its emphasis on natural light and sustainable materials, contemporary design is both stylish and eco-friendly, appealing to those who value modern aesthetics and energy-efficient living.
Key Elements:
Minimalistic design with clean, sleek lines
Neutral or monochromatic colour schemes for simplicity
Emphasis on open spaces and large windows
Sustainable materials like glass, metal, and concrete
5. Brick Veneer
Montgomery by H&L Victoria
Brick veneer construction offers the charm of brickwork without the hefty price of full brick construction. It’s popular for its versatility and efficiency, consisting of a single layer of brick attached to a timber or steel frame.
This method creates a durable and weather-resistant exterior that works well with both classic and modern designs.
Brick veneer homes are popular for their thermal efficiency, particularly useful in Australia’s varying climates, and they offer a range of aesthetic options, from traditional red brick to modern, monochromatic tones.
Key Elements:
Lightweight construction with a single layer of brick veneer
Timber or steel framework for flexibility and cost-effectiveness
Excellent insulation and thermal efficiency
A versatile aesthetic that suits both traditional and modern designs
Finding Your Perfect Style
Each of these exterior design styles brings unique qualities to a home, whether it’s the rustic warmth of French New Provincial, the timeless elegance of NeoClassical, or the airy charm of Hamptons style.
Selecting the right style for your home involves balancing your aesthetic preferences with practical considerations like climate and lifestyle needs. With these options, you’ll be well on your way to creating an exterior that not only stands out but also reflects your personality and taste.
iBuildNew Editorial Team
As the specialist voice of Australia’s largest new home building resource, the iBuildNew Editorial Team delivers deep-dive coverage into the house and land sector. From analysing new estate launches to highlighting the country’s leading home designs, we track the building journey to provide clarity for every buyer.
