A-frames look like a triangle or capitalized version of the first letter in our alphabet. They can be identified because of their long roofline. The roof of an A-frame home extends to almost the level of the foundation, and forms two walls that slope inside the house.
Due to their high A-frame homes usually comprise of more than one level and are often open, loft-style interior. Floor-to-ceiling windows within the walls that are upright are not common, and due to both attractiveness and practical reasons A-frame houses typically have exposed beams as well as vaulted ceilings.
The A-frame was made its U.S. debut in 1930s Southern California at the skilled hands of R.M. Schindler. Schindler, a Vienna-born architect liked Frank Lloyd Wright and collaborated with Wright on the design of the famous Hollyhock House.
Although Schindler was an architect of vision A-frame homes were used long before he built his first home on Lake Arrowhead. The A-frame construction technique is robust and practical, and has been utilized all over Asia as well as Europe for hundreds of years.
Due to their steep rooflines, A-frame houses are perfect for cold climates, since they aren't prone to snow accumulation, which can seriously damage roofs. A majority of the A-frame houses in the U.S. were constructed between the 1950s and the 1970s. They are often located in forested, mountainous areas including Colorado, Utah, and the Pacific Northwest.
The small home movement and an overall trend towards sustainability have brought about an upsurge in A-frames. They are a great choice for people who want to reduce their size or lead with a more sustainable lifestyle due to of their simple design and the minimal maintenance required for their exterior.
A-frame home owners have the benefit of being cheap and durable. A-frames are generally cheaper to construct than conventional designs. If you're buying an older home It is possible to save up to 60% off the cost of a brand new one. You can be assured that the A-frame is sturdy, regardless of the style you prefer for your home.
