If you’ve ever driven through a quaint New England town and found yourself captivated by a home that seems to lean gently into the landscape, you’ve likely admired a Saltbox house. With its distinct sloping roof and understated charm, the Saltbox is a true piece of American architectural history.
In this blog, we’ll break down what makes a Saltbox home unique, take a quick look at its origins, and explore the features that continue to inspire designers and homeowners today.
A Brief History: Where Did Saltbox Homes Come From?
The Saltbox home originated in 17th-century colonial New England, when early settlers needed more living space but faced high costs (and, at times, taxes) for full two-story homes. So, rather than rebuilding entirely, they extended their homes by adding a single-story lean-to at the back and extending the roofline down to cover it. This clever adaptation was able to create extra square footage, along with its distinctive, sloping silhouette that is still recognized centuries later.
Saltbox homes get their name from the lidded wooden boxes (like this Vintage Handpainted Saltbox from Etsy) that were commonly used to store salt in colonial kitchens. These boxes had a similar asymmetrical profile, and from the side, the house closely resembles one—hence the name. While you won’t see many newly built Saltbox homes today, they remain iconic throughout the Northeast and serve as a testament to the craftsmanship and design ingenuity of early settlers.
How to Spot a Saltbox Style Home by Country Living
Photo Credit: Alamy
Exterior Features: How to Spot a Saltbox Style Home
Saltbox homes are immediately identifiable by their long, sloping gable roof, which extends further on one side (typically the rear) to create an asymmetrical profile. But while the silhouette is distinct, the beauty of the Saltbox style lies in its utilitarian charm. Here are a few defining exterior elements:
- Roof: The most prominent feature is the asymmetrical pitched roof. Often steep, it was designed to handle heavy snowfalls, making it perfect for New England’s long winters.
- Siding: Traditional Saltbox homes feature clapboard or wooden shingle siding, usually painted in classic colonial colors like deep red, barn white, yellow ochre, charcoal grey, navy blue, or neutral hues.
- Windows: The front facade is usually symmetrical, with evenly spaced double-hung sash windows (often six-over-six panes), finished with minimal trim for a clean and simple look.
- Chimney: A large central chimney is a common feature, strategically placed to evenly heat the home from a single source, especially essential for the cold winters.
- Front Door: Centered and typically simple, the front door may be framed with a modest transom or plain pilasters.
What Are Saltbox Houses And How Did They Get Their Name? By House Digest
Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia | Shutterstock
Interior Features: What’s Inside a Saltbox Home?
Inside a Saltbox home, you’ll find a blend of natural materials and handcrafted details. These homes were built for function and comfort, and though many have been updated over the years, modern restorations or renovations often honor these materials to keep their historic charm. Here are some defining interior elements:
- Flooring: Wide-plank hardwood floors, which are typically pine, oak, or chestnut, are common and often original in older homes.
- Beams: Exposed timber framing and ceiling beams are a signature element that give the home a rustic colonial feel.
- Fireplaces: Central hearths used for both cooking and heating purposes. Many homes feature multiple fireplaces with brick or fieldstone surrounds.
- Layout: Rooms tend to be modest in size and the typical floor plan includes narrow staircases, cozy parlors, and tucked-away loft spaces in the upper floors.
- Materials: Ornamentation in Saltbox homes is minimal, with interiors typically highlighting natural, durable materials such as wood, brick, and plaster.
The History of the Saltbox House, a Timeless Style of New England Architecture by Martha Stewart
Photo Credit: cindygoff | Getty Images
Inspired by the Saltbox Design?
We love working with architectural styles that tell a story, and few do that better than the Saltbox. While these homes may not be built as often today, they remain deeply rooted in the soul of New England.
So, if you’re thinking about restoring an old Saltbox or drawing inspiration from its timeless character for a new project, we’re here to help make that happen. Book a free consultation with our team to get started!
