Classic Colonial Homes and The New England Stone That Give Them Curb Appeal

Thanks to the rich colonial history of the New England area, it’s no surprise that the folks who live, work and play here have a love for a true colonial style home that runs deep. Though all homes built in the colonial style share certain common elements, it’s the thoughtful use of other, time-honored materials and features that makes each of these homes truly one-of-a-kind.

This architectural style has many borrowed forms and features that are hallmarks from other European countries, introduced by immigrants who settled in the United States hundreds of years ago. Symmetry, small windows, a steep-pitch roof, and plank or raised-panel doors are just some of the defining characteristics seen in a classic colonial home.

“From oak and pine to granite, early Americans used the materials around them to create beautiful homes, each with their own unique character,” says Roger Barrett III of Early New England Homes. “This is a tradition we proudly keep alive today.”

At Swenson Granite Works, our heritage of stone work is as much of a true, New England tradition as this classic colonial architectural style. When it’s time to refresh these stately residences, many New Englanders visit Swenson’s retail locations to locally source granite that honors their colonial home design and stands up to the harsh winter climate.

Whether it’s a handcrafted stone wall around the perimeter of the property or pavers and stone steps that really make an entrance, a touch of natural stone adds warmth and charm. Natural stone like granite is a durable option that consistently outperforms wood, brick and concrete. It not only enhances the look of a classic colonial but preserves it for years to come.

How’s that for lasting curb appeal?

If you want to make the jump to adding natural stone to the exterior of your home but aren’t quite sure where to start, take a look at some of our favorite projects from the New England area and get ready to be inspired.

Our Woodbury Gray granite split face steps, granite pavers and Weathered Mountain stone wall, a native Maine fieldstone, welcome guests into this colonial in Freeport, Maine.

Woodbury Gray granite split face steps and post spruce up a beautiful Massachusetts colonial home.

Woodbury Gray granite rock face steps and New England Style wallstone perfectly complement the beautiful foliage in the front yard of this colonial.

Woodbury Gray granite posts and gray cobblestones dress up the driveway entrance.

The Woodbury Gray granite split face steps alongside the Weathered Fieldstone wall complement this classic brick colonial home beautifully.

Bluestone steps, treads and bluestone pavers lead to the front door of this elegant Marshfield, Massachusetts home.

Woodbury Gray granite split face steps enhance the exterior of this classic New England colonial.

When you are ready to revive your colonial home, visit your local Swenson Granite store. We will work with you to choose your features and plan your project from start to finish.

Interested in learning more about colonial-style architecture? Check out Early New England Homes for floor plans and photos of custom-built colonial homes.