Spanish architectural influence in Coral Gables, Florida. Photo by Richard McLaughlin.

The vernacular architecture of Florida is a product of many distinct influences. Four vernacular styles of architecture stand out: the easily recognized, simple wooden Cracker; the mellow, wooden Caribbean; the graceful masonry and stucco Mediterranean Revival; and the playful masonry and stucco Modern. Each represents a period in which the architectural values were linked to the community values that made memorable places. The evidence exists in the rural landscape of northern Florida and in Naples; in cities that started as suburbs, such as Palm Beach and Coral Gables; and in the urban landscapes of historic towns such as St. Augustine, Key West and Miami Beach. Building type plays a prevalent role in making these places extraordinary. Furthermore, the massing, detailing and placement of these buildings prevail as the critical rules—not the buildings' architectural style. Therefore, the Florida-vernacular buildings (indeed, all of the homes found at TNDhomes.com) are not just interpretations of a particular style; they use a new architectural vocabulary that is both traditional and modern.

The affinity among the aforementioned Florida vernacular architectures is clearly seen in their common ability to moderate the tropical climate, to define public space, to create a relationship to the street at human scale and to clearly establish an identity for the neighborhood. Climatically, the Cracker and Caribbean styles take advantage of the hot, humid climate of Florida through roof-vented systems, large vertical openings and roof overhangs, while the Mediterranean Revival style uses thick walls, small openings and courtyards. All four vernaculars encourage the occupant to participate in the daily events that occur on the street through use of porches, verandas and loggias. The appropriate use of any of the homes from TNDhomes.com will depend upon the neighborhood situation. Following is a brief description of the origins and adaptability of each of the vernacular types.

A classic Cracker-style home. Photo by Erick Valle.

A magnificent Mediterranean-style home in Palm Beach, Florida. Photo by Erick Valle.

A Caribbean-style home. Note the relaxed porch. Photo by Erick Valle.

An Art Deco façade and trimmings cloak this Modern building in Miami Beach. Photo by Richard McLaughlin.