Historic Home Styles in South Jersey: A Look at Classic Architecture from the 1600s–1940s

Historic Home Styles in South Jersey: A Look at Classic Architecture from the 1600s–1940s

One of the best things about South Jersey (besides the amazing food and shore weekends) is its gorgeous historic homes. If you’ve ever strolled through towns like Haddonfield, Collingswood, Merchantville or Cape May, you’ve probably admired the stunning Victorians, charming Colonials, and cozy bungalows that give this area so much character.

If you’re a sucker for architectural charm or just love a good Zillow binge, here’s a guide to the most iconic home styles in South Jersey built before the 1940s.

1. Colonial Homes (1600s–1800s) – The OGs

These are some of the oldest homes in South Jersey, built when early settlers were setting up shop in the 1600s and 1700s. Colonial homes are all about symmetry, with brick or wood siding, a center entrance, and a steep roof.

Variations you’ll see:

• Georgian Colonial (1700s–early 1800s) – Red brick, white trim, and formal, symmetrical windows.

• Federal Colonial (late 1700s–early 1800s) – Similar to Georgian but with taller windows and more decorative touches.

Where to Find Them: Haddonfield, Moorestown, and Bordentown have some of the best-preserved Colonials in the state.

2. Victorian Homes (Mid-1800s–Early 1900s) – The Fancy Ladies

If you’ve ever seen a house with a wraparound porch, colorful trim, and a turret, you’ve spotted a Victorian home. These homes were all about intricate details and showy designs, and they became super popular in the late 1800s.

Popular styles in South Jersey:

• Queen Anne (1880s–1910s) – Asymmetrical shapes, stained glass, and gingerbread trim (aka the fairytale house vibe).

• Second Empire (1860s–1880s) – Features that fancy mansard roof that looks like it belongs in a Wes Anderson movie.

• Gothic Revival (1840s–1870s) – Steep roofs, pointed arches, and sometimes even a castle-like feel.

Where to Find Them: Cape May is famous for its Victorian homes, but you’ll also find beauties in Collingswood, Riverton, and Merchantville.

3. Italianate Homes (1840s–1880s) – The Elegant Statement Pieces

These homes give major European villa vibes with their tall, narrow windows, decorative cornices, and dramatic overhanging eaves. Many have rounded windows and fancy front doors. If you see a house that looks like it belongs in Tuscany, it’s probably an Italianate.

Where to Find Them: Burlington City and Salem have some of the best-preserved Italianate homes in South Jersey.

4. Greek Revival Homes (1820s–1860s) – The Stately Beauties

These homes look like mini Parthenons, with massive white columns, symmetrical facades, and grand entryways. Inspired by—you guessed it—Greek architecture, they were super popular in the early-to-mid 1800s.

Where to Find Them: Woodbury, Haddonfield, and Bridgeton have some amazing Greek Revival homes.

5. Craftsman & Bungalows (Early 1900s–1940s) – Cozy & Classic

By the early 1900s, homeowners were over the fancy Victorians and wanted something simpler and more functional. Enter the Craftsman bungalow, a home style focused on natural materials, built-in shelving, and big front porches. These homes have a warm, handcrafted feel, with exposed wooden beams and brick fireplaces.

Where to Find Them: Collingswood, Westmont, and Audubon have some of the best Craftsman bungalows in South Jersey.

6. Tudor Revival Homes (1920s–1940s) – The Storybook Cottages

Tudor homes look straight out of a fairy tale, with steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and charming arched doorways. These became popular in the 1920s and ‘30s, especially in suburbs like Cherry Hill and Haddon Heights.

Where to Find Them: Haddonfield, Haddon Heights, and Collingswood have some adorable Tudor-style homes.

7. Colonial Revival Homes (1890s–1940s) – The Classic American Dream

Colonial Revival homes take the traditional Colonial look and give it a modern (for the time) upgrade. These were some of the most popular homes built between the 1920s and 1940s, with symmetrical facades, dormer windows, and brick or clapboard siding.

Where to Find Them: You’ll see a ton of Colonial Revival homes in Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, and Moorestown.

8. Spanish Revival Homes (1920s–1940s) – The Unexpected Gems

While not as common in South Jersey as in California or Florida, Spanish Revival homes do exist here—and they’re stunning. These homes are known for stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and arched doorways, giving off a Mediterranean villa vibe.

Where to Find Them: A few rare gems can be found in Haddonfield and Collingswood.

9. American Foursquare (1900s–1930s) – The No-Nonsense Classic

If you see a house that’s boxy, practical, and has a big front porch, it’s probably an American Foursquare. These homes were built for functionality, with four equal-sized rooms on each floor (hence the name). They became popular as a reaction to ornate Victorian homes—people wanted something simpler and roomier.

Where to Find Them: Camden, Collingswood, and Merchantville have some great examples.

South Jersey’s Historic Homes Are Full of Charm

From Colonial mansions to cozy 1940s bungalows, South Jersey is packed with history and character. Whether you’re house-hunting or just love driving through old neighborhoods, there’s something special about these homes that have stood the test of time.

Next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for these classic home styles—you might just fall in love with one (or end up on Zillow for hours, no judgment).

Which historic home style is your favorite? Drop a comment and let’s talk dream houses!