What Exactly Is a Tudor Style House?

A Tudor-style house is a distinct and iconic architectural style that originated in England during the late Medieval period, around the 15th century. Over time, the style has been revived and adapted, particularly in the early 20th century in the United States, where it became associated with the "Tudor Revival" style.

Here are some key characteristics of a Tudor-style house:

1. Steeply Pitched Roofs

• One of the most defining features of a Tudor home is its steep, gabled roof with multiple angles. These roofs often have a herringbone pattern or other intricate details and can appear very dramatic, almost castle-like. Roofs are often made of dark-coloured materials like slate or tile.

2. Exposed Timber Framing

• Tudor houses often feature exposed wooden beams or half-timbering, where the timber structure of the building is visible on the exterior. The spaces between the beams are filled with plaster, brick, or sometimes stone.
• This gives the house a distinctive, old-world charm, reminiscent of medieval cottages or the homes of English nobles.

3. Brick and Stone Exteriors

• The exterior of a Tudor home typically includes brick, stone, or stucco. In the Revival style, you may find combinations of these materials used for the walls. The mix of stone and brick gives the home a sturdy, fortress-like appearance.
• Stone details around windows and doors are common, as are arched doorways.

4. Leaded Glass Windows

• Tudor homes often have small, multi-paned windows with lead framing, creating a distinctive pattern of diamond or rectangular shapes. These windows tend to be tall and narrow and sometimes have an arched shape, enhancing the medieval feel.
• The glass panes often have a slight distorted texture, contributing to the antique look.

5. Tall, Narrow Windows

• Besides the leaded-glass windows, narrow, tall windows are a hallmark of the Tudor style. Some might be casement windows (hinged at the side), and many feature arched tops.

6. Arched Doorways

• Arched doors are another signature of Tudor-style homes. These doors are often large and made of solid wood, sometimes with decorative ironwork or studs. The doors typically lead into a small entryway or vestibule.

7. Chimneys

• Tudor homes typically feature large, prominent chimneys—often tall, brick, and sometimes with decorative masonry or stacked stone. This makes the chimney one of the focal points of the home’s exterior.

8. Small, Cozy Interiors

• Inside, Tudor homes tend to have low ceilings, small, cozy rooms, and wood paneling. These homes often feel more intimate due to their room layouts, which may include formal sitting rooms, a large hearth or fireplace, and well-defined spaces.
• Stone or brick fireplaces are a common feature, often the focal point of the living area.

9. Ornate Woodwork and Detail

• Inside the house, expect intricate woodwork, such as exposed ceiling beams and wainscoting. The wood may be dark, often oak, which complements the historic and cozy feel of the space.

10. Asymmetry

• Tudor homes often feature an asymmetrical design—they don’t follow a strictly balanced or formal layout. This adds to their charm and gives them a more rustic, handcrafted feel.

11. Charming, Cottage-like Features

• While Tudor-style homes can range from quaint cottages to grand mansions, they all tend to evoke a storybook charm. They often have overhanging eaves, bay windows, and dormer windows that add to their whimsical appearance.

Tudor Revival (Early 20th Century)

The Tudor Revival style, which became popular in the United States in the early 1900s, was influenced by the earlier medieval-inspired Tudor architecture but was more relaxed in its interpretation. You may find some modern versions of Tudor-style homes that lean more into the "storybook" or "English cottage" look, with a slightly less rigid design. These homes are often found in suburban areas and feature the following characteristics:

• Combination of brick, stone, and stucco
• Irregular rooflines (often with cross gables or multiple roof sections)
• Rounded arches above doors and windows
• Decorative detailing like leaded glass, stone or brickwork, and sometimes ironwork

How Does It Look Today?

While the traditional Tudor houses were built in the late Middle Ages, today’s homes in this style maintain many of the core features. If you're looking at a modern Tudor-style house, you’ll likely see:

• Large fireplaces as the centrepiece of living rooms
• Cottage-style gardens that complement the rustic exterior
• A sense of warmth and coziness from the interior woodwork, fabrics, and colours (like deep reds, rich browns, and earthy tones).

Whether you're dealing with a classic historic Tudor or a more modern interpretation, the overall aesthetic is one of romantic charm, elegance, and a bit of old-world mystique. It's perfect for creating a home that's cozy but full of character.