Contemporary: Nontraditional and Distinct

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Contemporary homes represent an evolution of home design that came as city-dwellers made their way to the suburbs. The hallmark of a Contemporary home plan is its “simplistic distinctiveness," according to MonsterHousePlans.com.

"Contemporary homes tend to be a little grander and more modern. They aren't quite so ground hugging as, for example, a Ranch style of home," says Nyman. People attracted to this type of home like newer construction and all that comes with it, including more energy and cost efficiency as well as more space.

Where to find it: Contemporary homes can be found throughout the country, with more populated states like California, Texas, and New York boasting a higher volume of this type.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Bungalow: Natura...

People who live in Bungalow homes appreciate things that are rugged, adaptable and economic in design. "For these people it's all about comfort that is organic and natural," says Rikki Nyman, editor of AntiqueHomeStyle.com.

"Bungalow dwellers are practical and choose their home because it’s easy to live in and very efficient." Bungalows are designed to blend into the environment in which they're built and are all about ease between indoor and outdoor spaces. "Artists, architects, teachers, someone who has a more liberal approach to things, or even an outdoors person are the types you typically see living in a bungalow home," says Nyman.

Where to find it: Bungalows can be found throughout the country, but are in abundance in California and across the Midwest.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Colonial: Tradit...

Colonials are the iconic family home. One of the most popular styles in the United States, Colonials are square and stable. "People who live in Colonial homes are solid, grounded, successful, and sensible," says Nyman. "They like symmetry, formality and propriety, and they value tradition." The style of Colonials is light, airy, and clean, which is another reason people are drawn to this classic style.

Where to find it: Colonial homes can be found across the country.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Cape Cod: Quaint...

The Cape Cod style of house is similar to the Colonial but it's a bit more casual. "It's a simple style of house. People who live in a Cape Cod house are unpretentious, more casual, probably a little more creative and not deadline-driven," says Nyman. Since Cape Cods can be efficient and economical, they can be the perfect starter home for young couples, creating a bit of a romantic quality to this type of home as well.

Where to find it: This home originated in Massachusetts (Cape Cod!) and continues to be a popular style of home in New England -- mostly in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. But it's also a style that has spread across the country.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Spanish: Colorfu...

Spanish style homes are spirited and are all about making entertaining comfortable and relaxed. "These homes are casual and pleasant to live in. They offer lots of color and a lot of different textures and often feature large patios or other uncovered outdoor spaces for socializing," says Nyman. People who have an appreciation for Mediterranean style and warm-weather architecture will gravitate toward the Spanish style of home, which can be sprawling and rambling or tiny and cozy.

Where to find it: These houses are very popular in the southern tier of the United States, from Texas to California, and then again in Florida.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Ranch: Unpretent...

The Ranch style of home is long, low and asymmetrical in layout, with private space separated from living space. "Ranch type houses offer a more modern layout, with multipurpose spaces, very functional interiors and a logical, flowing layout," says Nyman. The ranch style of home is a great choice for those who are economical, practical and looking for easy living features.

Where to find it: Ranch style of house isn't concentrated in one area of the country. You can find them sprinkled throughout.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Cottage: Casual ...

The Cottage style of home represents a completely different flavor of lifestyle. "Cottages are, by definition, all about comfort, right sizing, and scaling to conform with your real self and not the Joneses," says Nyman. "Cottages are on the small side with a high cuteness factor." People who choose to live in Cottages opt for a charming, easy way to live.

Where to find it: Cottages are more prominent in areas of the Northeast

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Craftsman: Artis...

The Craftsman style of home is down-to-earth, with simple yet strong designs. "People drawn to these homes are often artistic individuals who appreciate handmade products, high quality craftsmanship, and slow design," says Nyman. These homes are not opulent - rather they're simple, clean, and well designed. Craftsman homes are all about the design principles, balance, harmony, contrasts and shaping everything in relationship to each other. Everything in the place has meaning.

Where to find it: Craftsman homes can be found across the country.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Tudor: Storybook...

Of the Romantic style of houses, the Tudor home is the most popular. "Owners love that they're rich in design with mixed patterns and unique characteristics," says Nyman. "People who live in Tudor-styles are drawn to their fairytale-like appeal, and this traditional style often resonates with people with a connection to English, Scottish or Irish heritage."

Where to find it: You’ll find Tudor style homes mostly on the East coast.

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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Prairie: Stylish...

The Prairie style of home is all American! When it first emerged, it moved residential architectural style in a new and very modern direction. "Like the Bungalow and Craftsman styles, the Prairie home incorporates the environment into the design," says Nyman. "It's characterized by harmonious geometry." People who choose to live in these types of homes enjoy open spaces, many built-ins and a home that's grounded in its environment.

Where to find it: Prairie style homes are more prominent in the Midwest..

(CREDIT: MonsterHousePlans.com)

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