A Spanish Colonial home is characteristically one with its environment, says Lisa Stacholy, of LKS Architects in Atlanta, Ga.

The casual dwellings boast thick stuccoed walls, red tile roofs and enclosed courtyards that extend one’s living space.

The Spanish Conquistadores

“This style dates back to the tail end of the Spanish Conquistadores,” explains Stacholy. “It is what they knew how to build, and the style fit the environment.”

Slightly Different Styles with Similar Characteristics

As the style migrated throughout the then-Spanish territories, these homes began to veer away from the Spanish and Mexican originals.

Today’s Spanish Revival

Today, the term Spanish Colonial Revival is used to describe homes built in the early 20th century that incorporate various elements of Mediterranean architecture. But, as with all true styles, these homes are linked by a set of common physical characteristics.

Common Features of the Spanish Style Colonial Revival:

• Built from Indigenous Components
  Spanish Colonial homes might be made of adobe in the Southwest and coquina rock in Florida.
• Thick, Stucco-Clad Walls
  These types of walls are situated for a hot environment. Thick walls absorb the day’s heat and gently radiate it back into the building during the cool evenings.
• Small, Open Windows
  Smaller windows, originally sealed by wrought iron grates rather than glass panes, are sited on the building to best capture breezes while avoiding the direct rays of the sun. Wooden shutters, when present, are traditionally mounted on the inside of the home.
• One Story
  The Spanish Colonial is the ancestor of our ranch-style house.
• Limited Ornamentation
  Ornamentation on these informal homes was often limited to arches on entryway’s, principal windows and interior passageways. But, more elaborate homes might feature intricate stone or tile work, detailed chimney tops and square towers.
• Wooden Support Beams
  Wooden roof supports project out over the exterior walls in classic Spanish Colonials.
• Inner Courtyard
  Historically, the courtyard let families move the cooking to accompany heat and steam outside. Today, these patios, porches and courtyards act as informal gathering spots for family, extended family and friends.

Possible Challenges

In hot, arid climates, stucco-clad adobe walls are remarkably long-lasting. However, when located in colder, wetter climates, adobe bricks can shrink and swell. This can the protective stucco to crack or pull away from the interior wall.

Cracking Stucco

Spanish Colonial Architecture homes might require minor patches or complete resurfacing to prevent serious moisture problems. Cracked stucco can also be indicative of foundation issues.

Flat Roofs & Clay Roof Tiles

Many Spanish Colonials were built with flat roofs, which, when not drained properly, can leak. Clay-tile roof tiles are durable lifetime materials that require only periodic maintenance. Check regularly for cracked, missing or out-of-place tiles.

The Wooden Timbers

Wooden timbers, both interior and exterior, should be inspected for moisture and insect damage.

Comfortable Homes

Stacholy says, “To me, Spanish Colonial homes are the type where you can’t help but feel comfortable, the kind where you kick off your shoes at the door and pad around in bare feet,” 

Relaxing Home Environment

With plenty of alfresco gathering spaces, these rambling homes express a sense of relaxation and foster a connection to nature and the surrounding environment.

Where Can I Buy a Spanish Style House In Phoenix?

The style is prevalent in the warm climates such as Phoenix, AZ. We usually have a ton to choose from. Search below and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, call me at 602-400-0008 and I’ll help you find one.