Different Housing Styles in New Zealand
There is a wide range of different housing styles that exist in New Zealand. Some are easy to categorise as they have similar designs, features, and/or elements. This particularly applies to older houses.
More modern houses are harder to define. Over the last 30 or so years, new build homes in Christchurch and elsewhere in the country often mix various styles together. Probably the only definable category that works for most of these houses is contemporary, although there is little in the way of design uniformity.
Some of the modern styles you will see in whole or in part include:
- Weatherboard houses built on small sections with a modest design.
- Open plan houses that are larger and have features like attached garages and rumpus rooms.
- Modern architectural designs that feature the latest construction materials, lots of glass, and clean lines.
- Architectural designs that push boundaries, and where the goal is to create a unique home that makes a statement.
- Mediterranean-style homes that borrow features from Europe.
- Contemporary two-storey homes with modern cladding, garages, and pitched roofs.
Common older housing styles include:
- The villa – popular from the late 1800s to the 1910s, villas were typically built from timber and have attractive, pre-war designs.
- The bungalow – bungalows largely took over from the villa. They are less ornate than villas and are usually found in the suburbs.
- Art deco – popular in the 1930s and 1940s, art deco houses have a unique design that often features flat roofs, curved walls, variable layers, and ornate internal wall finishes.
- State house – plain but robust and solid cottages with tiled roofs, timber joinery, and brick or weatherboard exterior finishes.
Best Housing Styles in NZ
Older style properties like villas and early 1900s bungalows are popular, but it’s important to be aware of the maintenance and renovation costs that are involved when you own one of these houses.
In terms of modern styles, all modern houses must adhere to the same building and energy efficiency standards. So, it all comes down to taste and how you will use the house. Experienced house builders in Christchurch will be able to help you make the right choice for your requirements.