Most Popular Architectural House Styles in the Denver Area

Denver, Colorado is a city known for its rich architectural diversity. From the historic homes lining Capitol Hill to the custom builds of Cherry Hills Village, the Mile High City is a showcase of American architectural evolution. Whether you’re house hunting, remodeling, or just a lover of design, understanding the most popular home styles in the Denver metro area can help you appreciate the unique charm and value of each type.

Here’s a look at the most popular architectural house styles in Denver—their history, key features, and why they continue to appeal to homeowners and buyers alike.

Victorian

Era: Late 1800s–Early 1900s
Neighborhoods: Capitol Hill, Five Points, Baker

Victorian homes are among Denver’s oldest and most ornate, reflecting the city’s booming growth during the silver mining era. These homes are known for their intricate woodwork, asymmetrical facades, and vibrant color schemes.

Key Features:

Decorative trim and brackets ("gingerbread" detailing)
Turrets and towers
Stained glass windows
Steeply pitched roofs
Wraparound porches

Why They’re Popular: Victorians offer incredible historic character and craftsmanship that’s hard to replicate in modern homes.

Denver Square (American Foursquare)

Era: Early 1900s–1930s
Neighborhoods: Washington Park, Congress Park, Park Hill

The Denver Square is a local adaptation of the American Foursquare style. These homes were built to be practical, family-friendly, and built to last.

Key Features:

Boxy, two-story shape
Large front porch with columns
Four-room layout on each floor
Brick or wood siding

Why They’re Popular: Denver Squares are beloved for their generous layouts, classic curb appeal, and adaptability to modern updates.

Craftsman Bungalow

Era: 1910s–1940s
Neighborhoods: Platt Park, Highlands, Park Hill

Craftsman-style bungalows reflect a design philosophy that values simplicity, craftsmanship, and a connection to nature.

Key Features:

Low-pitched gable roofs
Wide eaves with exposed rafters
Tapered porch columns
Built-in cabinetry and woodwork
Earth-tone color palettes

Why They’re Popular: These homes feel cozy and inviting, often featuring beautiful wood details and thoughtful design for everyday living.

Mid-Century Modern

Era: 1950s–1970s
Neighborhoods: Harvey Park, Krisana Park, Arapahoe Acres

Mid-century modern homes embrace open living and minimalism, and they’re experiencing a strong resurgence in popularity.

Key Features:

Flat planes and low-pitched roofs
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Open floor plans
Integration with the outdoors
Clean lines and minimal ornamentation

Why They’re Popular: With their bright interiors and sleek style, these homes are ideal for modern buyers who value aesthetics and function.

Tudor Revival

Era: 1920s–1940s
Neighborhoods: Hilltop, Bonnie Brae, South Park Hill

Tudor homes are reminiscent of European medieval architecture and bring an old-world storybook charm to Denver’s tree-lined streets.

Key Features:

Steep gable roofs
Half-timbering
Leaded glass windows
Stone or brick exteriors
Arched doorways

Why They’re Popular: Tudors stand out for their romantic and whimsical aesthetic while offering solid construction and rich detail.

Ranch

Era: 1940s–1970s
Neighborhoods: University Hills, Virginia Village, Wheat Ridge

Ranch homes were built to maximize space and convenience during the post-WWII housing boom.

Key Features:

Single-story floor plan
Large picture windows
Attached garages
Open living/dining areas
Sliding glass doors to backyard

Why They’re Popular: Their accessibility, affordability, and potential for remodeling make them a favorite for families and retirees alike.

Contemporary & Modern Custom Homes

Era: 2000s–Present
Neighborhoods: Cherry Hills Village, Sloan’s Lake, LoHi

New builds in Denver often reflect a contemporary or ultra-modern design sensibility, especially in luxury markets and infill neighborhoods.

Key Features:

Flat or butterfly roofs
Expansive windows and natural light
Eco-friendly materials and smart home tech
Open concept living
Minimalist aesthetics

Why They’re Popular: They reflect today’s lifestyle priorities—efficiency, connectivity, and sleek design.

Mediterranean & Spanish Revival

Era: 1920s–1940s (and revival in recent decades)
Neighborhoods: Belcaro, Bonnie Brae, Cherry Creek

These homes bring a touch of European warmth and elegance to Denver’s streets.

Key Features:

Stucco walls and red tile roofs
Courtyards and arched doorways
Wrought iron detailing
Terracotta and stone flooring

Why They’re Popular: They offer timeless style, excellent indoor-outdoor flow, and are ideal for Colorado’s sunny climate.

Choosing the Right Architectural Style for You

When exploring homes in the Denver area, it helps to know which styles resonate with your taste and lifestyle. Do you love the timeless grace of a Tudor, the open-air feel of a mid-century modern, or the bold simplicity of a contemporary build?

Understanding each style’s strengths can also guide renovation decisions, help you identify hidden value, and ensure you maintain the architectural integrity of a home you love.

Find Your Dream Home with Marlowe Crown

Whether you’re drawn to Denver’s classic bungalows or the cutting-edge homes of Cherry Hills Village, Marlowe Crown can help you navigate the city’s architectural landscape with confidence. With deep knowledge of Denver’s diverse neighborhoods and home styles, Marlowe makes the process of buying or selling a home as smooth and successful as possible.

Let’s find the house style that fits your story. Contact Marlowe Crown today!