In Edina, Minnesota, the architectural style of a home is more than just a visual choice—it’s a reflection of lifestyle, history, and personal preference. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply refining your understanding of the area’s luxury housing market, knowing the most popular architectural styles can help you make better real estate decisions.
From timeless classics to modern interpretations, the Edina housing landscape features a range of thoughtfully designed homes that speak to both tradition and innovation. If you’re exploring real estate in this highly sought-after community, this guide will give you an inside look at the architectural styles most commonly found—and most desired—across Edina.
Colonial Revival: A Nod to American Tradition
Colonial Revival homes are among the most recognizable in Edina, especially in long-established neighborhoods. This style draws from early American architecture, offering symmetry, tradition, and formal charm.
You’ll often spot these homes with:
- Brick or wood exteriors in neutral tones
- Gabled roofs and double-hung windows with shutters
- Central front doors with decorative pediments or fanlights
Inside, these homes typically include a formal layout with separate dining and living rooms, classic millwork, and fireplaces in the main living areas. For buyers seeking timeless design with modern upgrades, Colonial Revivals remain a top choice.
Mid-Century Modern: Clean Lines and Open Concepts
Mid-century modern homes made their mark on Edina in the post-war years and continue to draw attention today, especially from buyers who prioritize sleek design and open floor plans.
This style is defined by:
- Low-pitched or flat roofs
- Wide eaves and clerestory windows
- Minimalist facades with natural materials like wood and stone
Inside, the appeal lies in open-concept layouts, functional flow, and indoor-outdoor integration. Many homes also feature vaulted ceilings and large panes of glass to maximize light and space.
If you're drawn to simplicity, functionality, and a retro-modern vibe, this architectural style might be a perfect fit.
Tudor Revival: Storybook Charm With Historic Detail
With their steeply pitched roofs, arched entryways, and half-timbered facades, Tudor Revival homes bring historic character to Edina’s tree-lined streets. These homes often evoke a fairytale feel, making them particularly attractive in older, established neighborhoods.
Key features include:
- Decorative wood trim set against stucco or brick exteriors
- Tall, narrow windows with leaded glass
- Prominent chimneys and slate or shingle roofs
Tudor homes are ideal for buyers who appreciate architectural details, craftsmanship, and the sense of permanence that comes with heritage properties.
Modern Farmhouse: A Blend of Rustic and Refined
Modern farmhouse style has taken hold in Edina’s new construction and luxury renovation markets. It blends the warmth of traditional farmhouses with contemporary features, creating a look that feels both fresh and grounded.
Common elements include:
- Board-and-batten siding in soft whites or grays
- Metal roofing accents and black-trimmed windows
- Covered porches and open-concept interiors
Interiors often highlight wide plank flooring, statement lighting, and clean lines. These homes cater to families looking for style, space, and everyday functionality wrapped in sophisticated design.
Craftsman: Timeless Bungalows With Custom Details
Craftsman homes remain a beloved style in Edina, especially in areas like the Morningside neighborhood. Known for their inviting porches and detailed woodwork, Craftsman homes celebrate the art of custom building.
Signature traits include:
- Low-pitched gabled roofs with exposed rafters
- Wide front porches supported by tapered columns
- Built-in cabinetry, natural wood finishes, and handcrafted details inside
Craftsman homes typically offer a cozier footprint, so they’re well-suited for buyers who value character and charm over sprawling square footage.
Contemporary: Bold Statements in a Minimalist Package
Contemporary homes have gained momentum in Edina, particularly in high-end custom builds. These properties are often bold, geometric, and forward-thinking, appealing to those who favor progressive design and cutting-edge amenities.
Features often include:
- Flat or shed-style roofs with large overhangs
- Asymmetrical facades and mixed materials
- Expansive glass windows and open interior layouts
Contemporary architecture isn’t just about how the home looks—it’s also about how it functions. Energy efficiency, smart home integration, and sustainable materials often play a central role in the design.
Prairie Style: Minnesota’s Architectural Legacy
It gets better: Edina offers a strong connection to Prairie-style architecture, which originated right here in the Midwest through architects like Frank Lloyd Wright. This style is deeply tied to the landscape, with horizontal lines and organic integration.
Look for:
- Low, horizontal profiles that hug the land
- Overhanging eaves and grouped windows
- Built-in furniture and open interior concepts
Prairie-style homes often appeal to those who want something architecturally significant and rooted in regional heritage. They're a rare find, but highly coveted when they do appear on the market.
Blended Styles: The Rise of Transitional Design
Many homes in Edina feature a blend of architectural elements. Transitional design borrows from traditional and contemporary styles to create something unique, like a modern colonial with minimalist interiors, or a farmhouse exterior with Scandinavian finishes inside.
Buyers looking for balance and flexibility are increasingly drawn to these homes. They combine the best aspects of multiple styles, often tailored by custom builders to match current design trends and functional needs.
Contact the Cari Ann Carter Group
The Cari Ann Carter Group has a deep understanding of Edina’s luxury housing market and the architectural diversity that defines it. Their team works with buyers and sellers to match each client with the right property style and community fit—whether it's a timeless Colonial on a tree-lined avenue or a sleek, modern build near the golf course.
They offer personalized service, sharp negotiation skills, and deep local knowledge that’s essential in a competitive market. With their guidance, clients make informed, confident decisions—every step of the way.
Reach out to the
Cari Ann Carter Group today to start your search for the perfect architectural home in Edina. Luxury living begins with the right design—and the right partner.
