Home design is a vehicle for art, exploration, and expression. It’s rich with detail and meaning. Across the world and throughout history, architecture has been a manifestation of a culture’s concept of beauty, and each style stirs curiosity in the visitor. From the Norman coast to the Japanese countryside, we find new inspiration in the global architectural styles we encounter. Here are a few of our favorites.

Africa

The Glassworks Remodel showcases the vibrancy Moroccan design. Rich, warm browns and reds pervade the back patio design, lending an inviting air to the entire space. Carved elephants at the tips of beams and scrolling artwork on the ceiling imbue a sense of romance and whimsy even as the chimney’s stonework introduces texture and grounds the the patio design.

Asia

Much of Japanese architectural design finds kinship with craftsman style principles. It merges a deep desire for beauty with a strict expectation of functionality, creating compelling design features like this tansu hutch staircase. Earthy browns and greens echo the colors outside the home, showing deference to the natural beauty that inspires it.

Europe

Infused with charm and romance, the French Country style brings old world elegance to Pacific Northwest homes. The homes draw on the best of understated country cottages and opulent chateaus alike. With soft colors and rich accents, delicate built-ins and hardy structure, airy ceilings and warm fireplaces, the French Country style makes sophistication look simple.

Great home architecture is an expression of wonder, and for the insatiably curious lover of travel and culture, it’s a unique opportunity incorporate global architectural styles into the comfort of “home.”