There’s something magical about Southern homes. Whether it’s the stately columns, expansive porches, or warm brick finishes, Southern custom home exteriors evoke a sense of charm, tradition, and hospitality. If you’re dreaming of a home that combines elegance with comfort, Southern exterior styles might just steal your heart.
So, what makes these homes stand out? It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about culture, climate, and character. Southern architecture has evolved over centuries, blending influences from Europe, Africa, and the American frontier to create homes that are as practical as they are beautiful.
Hallmarks of Southern Custom Home Design
Wraparound Porches
Perhaps the most iconic feature of Southern homes, wraparound porches are more than just outdoor seating—they’re social hubs. Designed to capture cool breezes and provide shade from the sweltering sun, they offer the perfect spot for sipping sweet tea and watching the world go by.
Tall Columns and Pillars
Borrowed from Greek and Roman influences, tall columns are both structural and symbolic. They give homes a regal, grand appearance while paying homage to antebellum architecture. You’ll typically find these framing the entrance of Southern manors and plantation-style homes.
Shuttered Windows
Functional and decorative, shutters help control sunlight and airflow while adding character to the exterior. In storm-prone areas, they serve as protection, but in all Southern homes, they add a touch of historical flair.
Symmetrical Facades
Southern homes love balance. You’ll notice centered doors, evenly spaced windows, and mirroring structures on either side of the home. It’s a nod to classical design and creates a sense of order and beauty.
Popular Southern Home Exterior Styles
Colonial Revival
Features and Materials
Colonial Revival homes often feature red brick facades, white trim, and gabled roofs. Symmetry is everything here. The doors are often centered with an elaborate crown or portico, and windows are double-hung with shutters.
Best Locations for Colonial Style Homes
These homes are perfect in historic districts, but their classic look fits beautifully into suburban neighborhoods as well.
Greek Revival
Historical Influence
Inspired by ancient Greek temples, this style became popular in the 19th century. It was especially embraced in the Southern United States due to its association with grandeur and prosperity.
Exterior Characteristics
You’ll notice tall white columns, pediments, and bold cornices. The exteriors are typically painted in soft whites or pastels, giving them a stately but approachable feel.
Lowcountry Cottages
Designed for Climate
Native to coastal areas of the Carolinas and Georgia, Lowcountry homes are elevated on piers to prevent flooding. Their open layouts and high ceilings keep interiors breezy and cool.
Defining Architectural Elements
Low-sloped roofs, broad front steps, and wide porches define this relaxed and inviting style. Exterior materials often include wood and tabby concrete.
Farmhouse Style
Rustic Elegance
Originally built for functionality, modern farmhouses combine traditional charm with today’s design trends. Think metal roofs, wood siding, and lots of porch space.
Modern Southern Farmhouse
The updated version features black window frames, mixed materials, and minimalist landscaping—keeping the roots but freshening the look.
Creole Cottages
French-Spanish Heritage
Creole cottages are a unique Southern gem, found mainly in Louisiana. Their design is a blend of French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences.
Unique Exterior Elements
Look for steep-pitched roofs, symmetrical front facades, and colorful stucco or wood exteriors. Often built close to the ground, these homes boast ironwork railings and lush gardens.
Key Materials in Southern Home Exteriors
Brick and Stone
Durable and timeless, brick is a Southern staple. Whether in deep reds or soft sand tones, it provides insulation and aesthetic appeal.
Wood and Clapboard Siding
Often used in cottages and farmhouses, wood adds warmth and texture. It ages beautifully, especially when painted in classic whites or pastels.
Metal and Tin Roofing
These materials are not just trendy—they’re practical in rainy or humid Southern climates. They reflect sunlight and age gracefully.
Color Palettes That Define Southern Charm
Classic Whites and Creams
Neutral tones reflect heat and keep the house looking clean and crisp. They’re also versatile, pairing well with any accent color.
Earthy Greens and Warm Grays
Inspired by Southern landscapes, these colors blend beautifully with natural materials like brick, wood, and stone.
Bold Yet Traditional Accent Colors
Think navy shutters, red front doors, or pastel porch ceilings (yes, blue ceilings are a Southern tradition—meant to ward off spirits and insects alike!).
Landscaping to Match Southern Home Styles
Magnolia Trees and Boxwoods
A Southern yard isn’t complete without magnolia trees. Paired with neatly trimmed boxwoods and flowering hydrangeas, your exterior becomes a picture of Southern grace.
Gravel Walkways and Iron Fencing
These elements give a timeless, well-manicured look while guiding guests to your welcoming front porch.
Modern Takes on Traditional Southern Homes
Mixing Contemporary With Classic
Today’s designers love blending old and new. Picture a Greek Revival structure with steel-framed windows or a colonial home with a glass-railed porch.
Eco-Friendly Southern Exterior Choices
Sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, solar-paneled roofs, and energy-efficient siding are increasingly popular in modern Southern builds.
Tips for Designing Your Own Southern Custom Exterior
Working With Architects
Start with a clear vision. Bring photos, color swatches, and inspirational styles. Make sure your architect understands the balance between charm and functionality.
Blending Functionality and Style
Don’t sacrifice comfort for style. Choose materials that work with your climate, and remember—porches, shade, and airflow are more than just pretty features in the South.
Conclusion
Southern custom home exteriors are more than just a style—they’re a lifestyle. From the gracious porches to the historical detailing, each element tells a story of warmth, elegance, and resilience. Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating, embracing Southern style means creating a home that welcomes, impresses, and endures. So go ahead—add those columns, paint that ceiling blue, and pour yourself a glass of sweet tea. Your dream Southern home awaits.
