In classical and modern Southern design and architecture, we often see sweeping white surfaces for a cooling effect, tall columns lining long covered porches, lush landscapes with lots of shade, and plentiful lounge areas to relax with shelter from the heat.
The style in the South is about making you feel cool, fresh, and comfortable. It’s important for a home to be situated amongst tall trees, often flowering trees like Magnolias, that provide a lot of shade to keep the interior of the house away from the intense heat of the Southern sun.
Patios, porches, verandas, and sunrooms are key features in Southern homes. They are where the majority of downtime is spent reading or resting, and where you entertain guests for coffee, tea, or apƩritifs. We often see large porch swings with an array of cushions, wide wicker chairs, rocking chairs, and cushioned reclining chairs. Lighting is kept soft and ambient, often still incorporating gas lamps and candlelight.
Interiors range from simplistic and modern, to lavishly extravagant. Take a look at some of these selections of Southern homes and soak up their charm!

Photograph courtesy of Savvy Southern Style

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Photograph courtesy of Veranda

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of Southern Living

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of Lonny

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

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Photograph courtesy of Rue 27 Maison

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of One Kings Lane

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home

Photograph courtesy of Enchanted Home