Colonial Charm: 9 Exterior Designs From Historic Massachusetts Neighborhoods

Massachusetts holds America’s architectural soul in its historic neighborhoods. Walking through places like Beacon Hill or Salem feels like time travel through pages of our nation’s story.

These colonial-era homes aren’t just buildings! They’re living museums showcasing design elements that have influenced American homes for centuries.

And let’s be honest, half the time, you’re not admiring the craftsmanship… you’re just trying to figure out how their shutters look that good after 200 winters.

1. Brick Walkways That Whisper History

Cobblestone might be romantic, but brick walkways are where Massachusetts flexes its practical muscles with style. A well-laid herringbone path practically begs for a slow stroll with a mug of cider.

They’re charmingly uneven, always photogenic, and they somehow make even garbage day feel historic. Want to level up? Let some creeping thyme grow between the bricks.

Suddenly you’re living in a Nancy Meyers film set in 1770.

2. Shutters That Do More Than Sit Pretty

Who knew two pieces of wood could change your house’s whole personality? Functional wooden shutters in moody colonial colors, think bottle green, oxblood, or inky black, frame windows like eyeliner for your house. And yes, they can close, which means they’re not just pretty faces. Hinges, holdbacks, and all.

Forget faux. Real shutters say, “We handle blizzards and look fabulous.”

3. Boxwood Borders With Attitude

Don’t let their tidy appearance fool you, boxwoods are the sassiest plants in New England. Trimmed into lines, balls, or even perfect cubes, they act like velvet ropes around your garden beds.

They say, “Step right this way,” with elegance and maybe a side-eye. They’re low-maintenance, evergreen, and unbothered by trends.

Pair them with a few antique urns or weathered benches, and suddenly your yard’s giving Founding Father’s private courtyard.

4. Sconces That Glow Like Gossip

What’s better than colonial gossip on a summer night? Lighting that makes your front entry glow like it has secrets. Those lantern-style sconces, preferably black iron or aged copper, offer instant curbside intrigue.

Whether gas-style or electric, they cast a warm, flickering vibe that whispers, “This house makes great pie.” Mount them beside the door, and your entire facade goes from “fine” to “found on postcards.

5. Doors With Drama (And A Bit Of Brass)

Your front door is the lead actor in your home’s exterior ensemble, so give it the spotlight. Go bold: deep navy, fiery red, or glossy hunter green.

Add a gleaming brass knocker and a classic transom window, and you’ve just upgraded to main character energy. I recommend oversized pumpkins in the fall and a proper wreath in winter.

This door doesn’t just open; it performs.

6. Backyards With Gravel And Grit

Pea gravel patios are like the French countryside took a long weekend in Boston. There’s something irresistibly relaxed yet structured about them, crunchy underfoot, easy to maintain, and endlessly chic.

Add a wrought-iron bistro set, string some lights overhead, and you’ve got yourself an outdoor room that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Not even gravel hides spills, fallen leaves, and even a few oopsies from the dog.

7. Landscaping That’s Almost Too Symmetrical

Where else would you see twin trees flanking a walkway like perfectly trained soldiers? Colonial landscaping thrives on symmetry, and it’s wildly satisfying.

Whether it’s boxwoods, hydrangeas, or stone planters, everything has a twin. And it works. Your eyes follow the lines, the house feels centered, and visitors wonder if they’ve stumbled onto a museum set.

Spoiler alert: you just know how to use a measuring tape.

8. Trellises That Climb Into Dreamland

A white trellis in Massachusetts isn’t just decoration, it’s a lifestyle choice. Covered in climbing vines like clematis or wisteria, it turns plain patios into garden fairytales.

It’s not just about shade, it’s about shadow play, floral perfume, and a touch of drama. I like to place them near an outdoor bench for those long, luxurious “thinking about nothing” afternoons.

It’s a frame for memories, and your Instagram grid will thank you.

9. The Power Of The Portico

How do you turn a front door into a moment? Add a portico with proper columns and suddenly, you’ve got drama worthy of a Jane Austen entrance scene.

It’s the architectural equivalent of saying, “I’ve arrived”, but with restraint. A pitched roof, some elegant molding, and those columns standing at attention give your home a dose of tailored charm.

Bonus points if you throw in a hanging lantern. No one needs to know you just dashed outside in slippers, you’ll still look dignified doing it.