Historic Houses Archive - Indiana Landmarks

If you spend enough time exploring the cities, towns, and neighborhoods of Indiana, you might feel you’ve done a bit of time travel: The architectural styles that flourished from the pioneer era through present day all have left their marks, and examples of these structures endure even now. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Here you’ll find Indiana examples of those architectural styles that have thrived in our state, including the modest and affordable vernacular designs and the more ornate, finely done high-styles. All these examples are further illustrated with primary design characteristics, and accompanied by brief explanations about the cultural and historic events that influenced and popularized them.

While this guide focuses on pure expressions of these unique styles, once you know how to identify them you’ll notice similar versions everywhere, as design elements and structures were borrowed and adapted to add flair to more modest buildings. So read on, learn more, and discover the secret language of Indiana’s architectural styles.

19th Century Vernacular

In the nineteenth century, architectural styles in Indiana were modest, and largely determined by local building traditions and readily available materials.

19th Century High Style

American high-style architecture in the nineteenth century drew much of its inspiration from European culture, politics, and even archaeological discoveries.

20th Century Vernacular

New technology (and a new understanding of germs) led to dramatic changes as Victorian aesthetics were swept aside for simplicity and convenience.

20th Century Vernacular Post-WWII

Returning GIs and government-backed low-interest mortgage loans led to a boom of modern, practical homes that could be ordered right from a catalogue.

20th Century High Style

When it comes to identifying twentieth-century high styles, size matters. Though many of them look familiar, these homes are typically larger than their earlier counterparts.

20th Century Period Revivals

What’s old is new again. Throughout history, architectural styles that have fallen out of favor are discovered, reinvented, and embraced by a whole new generation.

This project was funded in part by a grant from the Efroymson Family Fund.