Saltbox Home Styles
Saltbox homes are an iconic element of early American colonial architecture, recognized for their distinctive, asymmetrical design. Originating in New England in the late 1600s, the Saltbox style gets its name from its resemblance to the wooden boxes used to store salt during that period. These homes are celebrated for their practicality, historical significance, and rustic charm, making them a beloved choice for those who appreciate classic colonial aesthetics.
Key Features of Saltbox Homes
Asymmetrical Roofline
The defining feature of Saltbox homes is their long, pitched roof that slopes down to the back, creating a two-story front and a single-story rear. This unique roofline not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also served practical purposes, such as helping to shed heavy snowfalls common in New England.
Central Chimney
Saltbox homes often feature a central chimney, which was essential for heating multiple rooms in the original colonial designs. The chimney typically rises through the middle of the house, providing warmth to both the front and back sections.
Simple, Unadorned Facades
Reflecting the Puritan values of simplicity and functionality, Saltbox homes have plain, unadorned facades. The exterior is usually constructed of wood with clapboard or shingle siding, giving the homes a straightforward and rustic appearance.
Small, Multi-Paned Windows
The windows in Saltbox homes are typically small and multi-paned, designed to provide adequate light while minimizing heat loss. These windows often have wooden shutters, adding to the colonial charm.
Large Keeping Room
The ground floor of a Saltbox home often includes a large, multipurpose room known as the keeping room, which served as the kitchen, dining area, and living space. This room usually features a large fireplace, which was the heart of the home.
Exposed Beams and Wide-Plank Floors
Inside, Saltbox homes often have exposed wooden beams and wide-plank wood floors. These features highlight the rustic and handcrafted quality of the construction, adding to the historical authenticity.
Creating a Saltbox Home
Exterior Design
To create a Saltbox-inspired exterior, focus on the characteristic asymmetrical roofline. Use traditional materials like wood for siding, and consider painting the exterior in classic colonial colors such as white, red, or blue. Incorporate small, multi-paned windows with wooden shutters to enhance the historical look. A central chimney and simple, straightforward detailing will complete the authentic colonial facade.
Interior Design
Inside, prioritize a straightforward, rectangular floor plan centered around a large keeping room. Use exposed wooden beams and wide-plank floors to maintain the rustic charm. The keeping room should feature a large fireplace as a focal point, reflecting its historical significance. Maintain a neutral color palette with earthy tones to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Furniture and Fixtures
Furnish a Saltbox home with period-appropriate pieces to enhance the colonial aesthetic. Look for sturdy wooden furniture with simple lines, such as trestle tables, ladder-back chairs, and wooden chests. Incorporate textiles like braided rugs, handwoven blankets, and simple curtains to add warmth and texture. Lighting fixtures should be simple and functional, with wrought iron or wooden candleholders and lanterns.
Decorative Elements
Decorative elements in a Saltbox home should reflect the simplicity and functionality of the colonial period. Consider using:
- Handcrafted Items: Pottery, woven baskets, and handmade quilts add a personal touch and highlight the artisanal quality.
- Historical Artifacts: Display items like pewter dishes, tin lanterns, and old tools to enhance the historical feel.
- Natural Elements: Incorporate natural materials like dried flowers, wooden bowls, and stoneware to add rustic charm.
- Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces
Extend the Saltbox aesthetic to the outdoors with thoughtful landscaping that complements the historical style. Use native plants, stone pathways, and wooden fences to create a natural and harmonious setting. A vegetable garden or herb garden can add to the colonial charm and provide a functional outdoor space.
Saltbox home styles offer a unique blend of historical significance, practicality, and rustic charm. With their distinctive asymmetrical rooflines, central chimneys, simple facades, and functional interiors, Saltbox homes reflect the resourcefulness and simplicity of early American settlers. By incorporating the key features and principles of Saltbox design, homeowners can create spaces that are not only historically authentic but also warm and inviting. Whether restoring an existing Saltbox home or designing a new one, the result will be a space that exudes timeless colonial elegance and a deep connection to America’s architectural heritage.