25 Old World House Plans To Mix The Old With The New

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Castles. Chateaus. Tudor. Classical. Neoclassical. French Provincial. Carved doors. Stained glass. Painted shutters … One of my favorite parts of living abroad has been enjoying the architecture throughout Europe. Home of fairy tales and centuries of rich design history, Europe is full of architectural wonder. When exploring, it is not uncommon to find towns and cities with a plethora of crooked alleys, winding ways and tucked away homes hidden, yet distinguishable by their unique doors cut deep into thick walls, normally accented with windows overflowing with flower boxes. Whether old or new, the combination of materials, roof lines, arches, and accents is simply enchanting. But does this old world, storybook charm only have to remain in Europe? To some degree, yes. There is simply not a way to duplicate all the centuries of patina and history that these cities have seen. But on the other hand, not entirely. Sure, the exact buildings cannot be transported, but the styles, materials, accents and details certainly can be an inspiration and a launching point even when building new. Inspired by all I have seen and enjoyed, I have gathered 25 old world house plans that wonderfully mix the old with the new, so if you want to start fresh with a new build, but look to bring a touch of European charm to your everyday life at home, these are for you! 

Characteristics Of Old World Design

Certainly, the characteristics of old world house plans largely depend on the architectural style and country you are referring to, however there are a few key details, materials and components that cross between multiple styles and countries which I will focus on here. 

Rooflines 

One of the first and perhaps most distinguishable characteristics of old world designs is that of rooflines. Whether utilizing the swooping roofline of Tudor designs or Mansard designs common in French architecture, steep roof pitches, with dormers, turrets, jut outs and accents are extremely common. These pitches normally range between 30 – 50 degrees to help provide weather resistance, larger space on the top floor and easier construction with their roofing materials. Despite the investment required to add these complicated rooflines, these details add interest, whimsy and a presence that quickly will transport you back to another time. 

Materials 

The next key set of characteristics is actually largely related to the materials used. Regarding roofs, tile, slate or metal roofs are much more common than roofing shingles. For walls though, most old world homes use a variety of stone and plaster-like stucco, frequently painted and occasionally with half timbered beams embedded. Copper and iron accents, whether used as gutters, downspouts, grates, railings, lights or roofing overhangs, are also quite popular. While most of these materials are more costly than other material options, they all are known to stand the test of time. Likewise, if people do own a home in Germany in particular (apartment life is very common!), they likely will only build, inherit or renovate one house and therefore want to invest in items that will last for years to come. 

Fireplaces, Arches & Details

Beyond materials and rooflines though, there are a few other aspects that can be seen across most styles of old world design. Fireplaces for one, are extremely common as they (along with wood stoves) used to be the primary source of heating for the home. Many chateaus, royal palaces and high end residences even used decorative tile heaters to radiate the heat from the fireplaces throughout the rooms. Like fireplaces, it also is common to see arched openings integrated throughout designs through doorways, passage ways, windows or gates. These doorways, windows and gates typically start at the ground floor, even if the homes are quite small and nestled between garages, buildings, into a mountain / hillside or along a canal.

25 Old World House Plans 

Under 2,000 Square Feet 

Old World House Plans 2,000 – 3,000 Square Feet

3,000 – 4,000 Square Feet

4,000 Square Feet & Above 

Final Thoughts 

Whether you are looking to embrace old world designs in a home of 1,500 square feet or 4,500 square feet, these storybook details will certainly allow you to feel as if you have slipped into another time. I have loved finding each of these old world house plans and now have a million pieces of inspiration swirling in my brain hopefully to use at some point when we return home in the future. But what do you think? Are you drawn to old world storybook designs? Or do you prefer a more modern or colonial design style? I have a huge appreciation for each style in its own way, but for me, there is something about old world designs that just draws me in!

Happy designing!

Chloe

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