Take a drive around Norfolk, a city where people have been building houses for more than three centuries, and you’ll find lots of beautiful old homes featuring architectural styles that are common in a 336-year-old city.
One thing you’re not going to find is a large number of contemporary homes and contemporary architecture.
Exactly what separates traditional from contemporary architecture?
The home at 6062 Newport Crescent offers an example.
“Contemporary homes typically include an irregular or unusually shaped frame, an open floor plan, and oversized windows. The use of natural light usually plays a big role, so large and expansive windows are a common and an easily recognized feature of such homes,” said Realtor Julia Shea, who is also the listing agent for the home.
Accordingly, 6062 Newport Crescent offers an open floor plan and is open and bright.
“The large windows in the front family room, with a custom window seat, allow an abundance of natural light into the room,” said Shea. “You will continue to find large windows in the kitchen, living room and throughout the upstairs as well. The rooms are large and open throughout and the beautiful hardwood floors add a touch of warmth throughout the spaces. The levels in this contemporary home are split which requires an irregular shaped frame.”
Built in 1953, the home offers five bedrooms, three baths, and 4,794 square feet of living space.
Shea said “A Pattern Book for Norfolk Neighborhoods” by the city shows that most homes fall into one of six categories: classical revival, colonial revival, European romantic, arts and crafts, Victorian, and coastal cottage.
“The homes that meet the criteria listed above are located in 19th-century neighborhoods, early-20th-century neighborhoods, or 20th-century post-war neighborhoods,” she added. “A contemporary home doesn’t quite fit into any of these categories. Contemporary homes are considered the homes of the present.”
Victoria Dietz, who owns the home with her husband Phillip, said they appreciate the home’s size, layout, and location, as well as the established neighborhood, which has a minimal flood risk.
“The open and large rooms make it an ideal space for entertaining, including the sunken formal living room with custom window seat spanning the entire length,” Dietz said. “And the home’s color palette is neutral and inviting.”
For more information about 6062 Newport Crescent visit Shea’s Website.
