Interior Design Difference Between European Homes & American Homes

When it comes to the interior design and decoration of homes, Americans and Europeans have a lot to be at odds. Talk about the average property size, materials, kitchen plans, energy efficiency, or the style of living, there are much construction and designing aspects that represent the immediate differences in home designs of both continents. Both continents’ architectural styles and home design sense have significantly changed over the centuries.

However, as mentioned by many industry experts, European architecture has always stayed true to its roots, it dates centuries into the past and maintained an indistinguishable and authentic interior designing style, while US homes got influenced by different ideas from all over the world. But to my surprise, very few things like the hardwood floors and oceanfront views for both have been universal.

Materials Used For Home Construction

Home designs on both continents have always been poles apart, including the materials used for the construction. Most of the residential buildings in America are made from lightweight materials like plaster, wood, and brick, while Europeans prefer using heavy-duty materials like stone and wood for their home construction. Also, the European roofs are often made of wood and rigid tiles, the Americans prefer using shingle roofs.

Different Kitchen Styles

Kitchens have been a major point of difference in the design aspects of both continents. Americans prefer having tiled floors with open and spacious kitchens, characterized by lots of windows, a large centre table, sink, stove, oven, and a mini-dining for breakfast sessions. Conversely, European kitchens are often found to be simple, unadorned style, containing flat exteriors, little or no appliances and hardware, and flush doors.

Energy-Efficiency Of The Building

European homes are more energy-efficient compared to American homes – thanks to their small and compact sizes. The European government is very much strict about energy efficiency, and that’s why the citizens also put their maximum efforts to capitalize on their home’s insulation properties and efficiency. on contrary, American homes are vast, with high ceilings, and more lights and fixtures, which make them less insulated and energy-efficient.

Way Of Living

The styles of living on both continents are different, so their homes are. While Americans prefer secluded living, European people are more hospitable and prefer a community lifestyle. And, this is the factor that affects the sizes of properties in both areas. Through isolated living, Americans still prefer bigger homes with multiple bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and large yards. On contrary, European homes are compact and more comfortable to live in.

Different Construction Plans

The way residential properties are planned on both of these continents signifies the most significant difference of all. The floor plans in the US promote wide-open living spaces, while European floor plans often include detached rooms like isolated kitchens and dining spaces. But in America, you can find the kitchen and dining area to be adjoined with a large, open floor plan, because of their lifestyle and willingness to spend more indoor time with their families.