FAQ
How much do Northwest style houses cost per square feet (approximately)?
The average cost for a Northwest style home is approximately $180-$325 per square foot. Costs will vary greatly depending on the area in which you build, if you choose a custom home, and the current housing and construction markets.
Are there Northwest style floor plans with a detached garage? Is it possible?
Yes, some Northwest style floor plans include a detached garage. You can also choose garage floor plans in the Northwest style to compliment your home.
Does Northwest style house usually come with a garage?
It’s fairly common for Northwest style homes to come with a garage. In fact, approximately half of all Northwest style plans include a garage. Attached garages are by far the most common. This may be due to both architectural style and practicality. Given the frequency of rain in the Pacific Northwest, an attached garage allows residents to easily get to their vehicle without braving the elements.
Is Northwest style considered a grand or luxury style of home? Is the style used for mansions or normally regular-sized homes?
The style is mainly used for regular-sized homes, but it is possible to build a mansion in Northwest style. Northwest style can be fairly luxurious with large floor plans of 4,000-5,000 square feet or even larger. Some of the most memorable homes in America come from the Pacific Northwest, taking the modern form and function the style is famous for and turning it into architectural primarypieces.
Is Northwest style ever built as a “small” home? Can it be built economically?
The Northwest-style works well as a small or tiny home. It can also be built to green home or passive house standards for more economical operation of the home. The style offers a large amount of flexibility, making it suitable for homes both large and small.
Can Northwest style floor plans be open concept?
Northwest style homes are often open concept. It can be made to feel even more open with exposed structural features and large windows.
What are popular Northwest style exterior colors?
Shades of green, brown, gray, and blue are popular exterior colors for Northwest style homes. The homes tend to have a natural feel, so colors from nature’s palette fit right in. The overcast skies of the Northwest also allow for the use of stronger or darker shades without being overwhelming. White is a classic color and can be paired with bolder trim colors.
Can you build a Northwest style house on a narrow lot?
Yes. This design style lends itself easily to being on a narrow lot, with some plans having a width of 26 ft. These may be smaller size homes or two-story homes to provide more square footage.
Can this style be built on a wide lot?
Yes. The Northwest-style can easily be spread out to accommodate a large lot and give plenty of room, particularly with a Craftsman or Bungalow style.
Can Northwest style homes be built on a sloping lot?
Yes. There is a surprisingly large selection of Northwest style homes that can be built on a sloping lot.
How many floors/stories does Northwest style usually have?
Northwest style normally has one story. About 1/4 of Northwest style plans include two stories, and very few include three stories.
Do Northwest style houses have a basement?
Yes, some Northwest style homes have basements. Many do not. Older homes of all styles are more likely to have a basement than contemporary homes.
Does this style of house ever come with a bonus room?
Yes, some Northwest style homes have a bonus room.
Do Northwest style floor plans come with energy-efficient options?
The Pacific Northwest is known for environmental activism, so it’s no surprise that the answer is yes. There are some Northwest style plans that are Net Zero Ready. This means that the home is designed to be energy efficient enough to run solely on renewable energy.
Is a porch a common design feature with Northwest style houses?
Covered front porches are a fairly common feature of Northwest style homes. Wraparound porches are also found on some homes.
What types of roof does Northwest style house typically have?
Northwest homes usually have a low or pitched roof with a deep overhang. Shed style, gable roofs, and steeply pitched cottage style roofs are also fairly common. In terms of materials, asphalt and wood shingles are commonly used. Many Pacific Northwest residents swear by the durability and function of metal roofs as well.
Does Northwest style work well with rustic interior decor? Or is it more suited to a contemporary interior?
Northwest style is often rustic or nostalgic. You’ll find rough hewn rustic pieces like log furniture, as well as exposed brick and structural elements. Classic furniture styles are often a staple of the style, along with Native American blankets. You’ll find cool base colors including blues and grays, with bright accent colors like orange and red. However, the Northwest style can be contemporary as well. The large glass windows and natural materials commonly used in the Northwest style can create a breathtakingly modern look that goes great with a contemporary interior.
