Chesterfield's rich history is readily apparent in the quaint shops and historic buildings that line its square, but the town has seen much expansion over the years, with new homes popping up all around it. As a result, from traditional homes to sleek modern designs, there is a home style in Chesterfield for every taste and budget.
Whether you are a first-time buyer or a veteran home-mover, understanding your preferences will ensure that you find the right home for you. This guide will provide you with a better understanding of what home styles are available in the city and offer tips to help you make your choice.
The history of Chesterfield's architecture
Chesterfield is home to some of the oldest homes and structures in St. Louis County, including those dating back to the 1840s located in the 200-acre Faust Historic Village, which was set up in the 1960s to preserve the estate of Frederick Bates, Missouri’s second governor. As a result, Chesterfield has an array of diverse architectural styles displaying influences from the colonial period to the modern day.
Chesterfield houses are typically made of brick or stone with a hip roof, such as a shotgun or bungalow style. Many homes have wrap-around porches or decks that provide space for outdoor living. Home sizes vary from small bungalows to Chesterfield luxury homes, which feature such amenities as sprawling lawns, in-ground pools, and tennis courts.
Some common local home styles include:
Contemporary
This type of home is commonly found in urban areas and features clean lines and open spaces. Many feature modern designs and amenities, such as floor-to-ceiling windows and verandas. A benefit of this style is that it can be adapted to any size or type of property, and buyers who seek this type of home are often attracted to the fact that it is low maintenance in comparison to historic homes.
Colonial Revival
Colonial homes are characterized by their symmetrical shape, central entrance, and columned porch and often have two or three stories with formal living spaces and a separate kitchen area. This style of home dates back to the 18th century and became popular in the United States during the early days of the republic, with inspiration often drawn from George Washington's Mt Vernon. Homeowners who prefer this style want a home that’s both classic and comfortable.
Queen Anne
Chesterfield's Queen Anne architecture harkens back to a time when the city was first settled, and these homes are highly coveted due to their unique style and historical value. Queen Anne homes are often characterized by their turrets, bay windows, and wrap-around porches and attract buyers seeking old-world charm and intricate detailing.
Tudor Revival
This regal home style is distinguished by its half-timbered facade and grandeur and can be found in rural and suburban areas alike. The style is based on the English Manor house and is characterized by its steeply pitched roofs, prominent chimneys, and decorative half-timbering. These homes are often large with spacious interiors. One of the benefits of this home style is the energy efficiency of the home's thick walls.
Tips for selecting the right home style for you
Living in Chesterfield provides access to a variety of home styles and architectures. Each has unique features that can help you develop a vision for the home's interior style and exterior appearance. However, your lifestyle and budget will have significant implications when picking a Chesterfield home. For instance, while an older home may offer charm and appeal, it also requires more maintenance than a newer home.
In addition, you should look at the space a home offers. Consider how you will use that space, whether you want plenty of room for children to run around or large areas for entertaining. Beyond that, consider how you will furnish and decorate the inside of your home. Some styles, such as Queen Anne, can be quite ornate, while others, such as Tudor, are more subdued. Ultimately, the style of home you choose should reflect your tastes and lifestyle.
Preserving the architectural integrity of Chesterfield Homes
If you do opt for a historic home, you will need to keep in mind all the obligations that go with it. You will need to get used to living with the quirks that come from an older home, such as low ceilings, small rooms and doorways, and non-functioning fireplaces. You will also be tasked with maintaining the home's historical integrity by ensuring any renovations or updates keep the house's original style.
This can be a daunting task, but there are resources available to help you. The Chesterfield Historic and Landmark Preservation Committee has information on historic homes in the area and may be able to offer guidance to homeowners interested in preserving the historic integrity of their homes.
To get you started, here are a few tips for preserving the architectural integrity of a home in Chesterfield:
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Have your home inspected regularly by a qualified professional to ensure that the structure is sound and all aspects of the building are up to code.
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Make sure to use only high-quality materials that match the house's original design, such as brick or stone, when making repairs or renovations.
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Research the history of the home and any changes that have been made over the years so you can ensure that these changes do not detract from the home's original style.
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If possible, restore original features such as doors, windows, fireplaces, and mantles to preserve the historic charm of your property.
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When considering new additions or modifications, ensure they are respectful of the existing architecture and consider how they will impact your home’s appearance.
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Consult with local preservationists and organizations to learn more about what you can do to protect your property’s architectural integrity.
Your best guide to Chesterfield's unique homes
Knowing the history, styles, and architectural features of homes available in the area can help you make the right choice of Chesterfield luxury homes, but there is no better guide than an experienced real estate agent such as those with The Benes Group. Equipped with the data, insights, and tools you need, the right agent can help to ensure you find a home that you will be happy with for years to come.
