Home Style Guide: Dutch Colonial

Dutch colonial houses are easy to spot with their beautiful and distinct gambrel roofs. The style has deeply practical origins but has evolved and become known for its beauty and sweet homeliness. Let's dive into this design style and discover what makes it so unique and charming — and explore some design guidance for modernizing or accentuating your Dutch Colonial home's classic appeal.

UNDERSTANDING THE ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

The Dutch Colonial architectural style traces its origins to the early 17th century when Dutch settlers brought their building traditions to the American colonies. The style quickly became popular in New York, New Jersey, and along the Hudson River. The Dutch settlers adapted their European building techniques to suit the New World's harsher climate, creating functional and distinct homes. With its dual slopes, the signature gambrel roof was not just an aesthetic choice but a practical solution for maximizing interior space while withstanding heavy snowfalls.

Over time, the style has evolved and blended with other colonial influences but still managed to retain its unique charm and practicality. In the early 20th century, the Dutch Colonial style experienced a revival, as Americans sought to reconnect with the country’s colonial past, leading to the construction of many homes that echoed the simplicity and charm of the original Dutch Colonial architecture.

KEY ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES OF THE DUTCH COLONIAL STYLE

Dutch Colonial style houses are known for their signature gambrel roofs and wide overhanging eaves. The gambrel roof is really the star of the show, setting Dutch Colonials apart from any other house style. The gambrel roof features two distinct slopes, which makes the house look like it is wearing a little hat. This, combined with the quaint overhanging eaves and dormer windows, conjures imaginings of the Dutch countryside complete with windmills and tulips.

Dutch Colonials may have a fairytale sweetness to them, but they also usually have a symmetrical facade with beautiful details that give them a sturdy, practical feel. The entrance is commonly central and usually emphasized as a focal point of the house. Many houses also have Dutch doors, which can be split to open only at the top. These originally helped to let fresh air in and keep animals out. Traditionally, these houses were made of brick and stone, but clapboard was also common. These days, however, it's not uncommon to find a wide selection of siding options as homeowners update and reimagine the style.

UPDATING YOUR DUTCH COLONIAL HOME

Several approaches can work when you look to freshen up your Dutch Colonial. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process.

What About Siding and Trim Updates?

Hardie® fiber cement siding is a superb choice for your Dutch Colonial! It offers both the benefits of traditional aesthetics and modern durability. Hardie® Plank lap siding is ideal for replicating the classic look of wood clapboard with its smooth, textured surface and wide range of colors. It provides the authentic appearance of traditional siding while offering superior resistance to weather, rot and pests.

As a complement, Hardie® Shingle siding can be used to mimic the look of wood shingles, adding classic texture and charm. Hardie® Trim boards provide clean, crisp lines and a durable finish to accentuate windows, doors and eaves, all while keeping the low maintenance benefits of fiber cement.

Time to Choose Colors

There are so many options when it comes to choosing colors — and even more ways of combining them to get just the right look for your house. Most people tend to choose a color scheme that harmonizes with the home’s surroundings while staying true to the historical roots of Dutch Colonial design.

If you lean towards the timeless, classic look, consider using Hardie® Plank lap siding in traditional white tones for a look that complements the Dutch Colonial style. Arctic White plank lap paired with Deep Ocean or Midnight Black trim evokes the quintessential Dutch Colonial home.

For a bit more character, the inverse, with darker neutral siding offer a modern twist while maintaining the traditional charm of the architectural style. For fiber cement trim, Hardie® Trim boards in Arctic White provide a clean, contrasting finish to a Mountain Sage or Evening Blue plank lap that highlights the unique architectural details of Dutch Colonial houses.

Contemporary Updates for Your Dutch Colonial

To modernize the Dutch Colonial style with Hardie® products, explore options like Hardie® Plank lap siding in dark, contemporary shades of blue or gray, such as Deep Ocean and Night Gray, which provide a sleek, updated look while respecting the home’s traditional elements.

Or, use Hardie® Panel siding to introduce a fresh, modern pattern and elevate the home’s exterior design. For trim, Hardie® Trim boards in minimalist styles with a bold color offer a modern touch while complementing the classic architecture. Pairing these with large, modern windows can enhance natural light and create a contemporary yet cohesive design that preserves the Dutch Colonial’s enduring appeal and brings it firmly into the present.

And there’s no need to stick with white; sometimes a neutral brown, such as Rich Espresso paired with a sleek, monochromatic Timber Bark trim can help bring those Dutch doors and dormer windows to life.

Looking at photos of houses is a great way to figure out which styles you prefer. As you observe each house, try to pick out exactly what you like and don't like. You'll probably start to see themes emerge so you can start to name colors and styles that appeal to you. Why not start with an introduction to popular house color combinations, or try a guide to choosing external colors to help you on your way?

PUT IT ALL TOGETHER TO FRESHEN UP YOUR DUTCH COLONIAL

Struggling to imagine how all your choices will work together? Do horizontal boards look good in a color other than white? Will your colors work together? And have you used enough trim? It's not easy to picture it all — especially if you aren't a designer by profession.

Thankfully, Hover® Design Studio, brought to you by James Hardie, lets you visualize a variety of siding, trim, and color choices on a digital model of your house. You don't have to guess or wonder how the finished product will look. Try combinations you like and tweak them until you love the finished product.

If you’re ready to start your re-side journey with a professional, Request a Siding Quote so we can connect you with skilled local contractors. The James Hardie Contractor Alliance™ Program connects homeowners with contractors nationwide whom you can trust are both licensed and insured.