The colonial revival typically refers to the rebirth of interest in the English and Dutch colonial styles, however, the Gerogian and the Federal styles of residential architecture are also major components of this revival period.

     Colonial Revival homes tend to be combinations of detailing imitated from the Georgian, Federal and Colonial styles. For example, Colonial Revival style houses often have paired windows that would never have been considered in the design of an original colonial home. Colonial Revival houses also tend to be more detailed with ornament, whereas the original colonial homes were generally rather simple. Classical ornamentation such as decorative cornices and classically ordered columns are frequently, but sparingly, used on Colonial Revival homes. The façades are usually flat and symmetrical. Colonial Revival homes feature gabled, hipped, or gambrel roofs. Dormer windows are sometimes included to make the attic space habitable.

     Like the Federal style, Colonial Revival houses often feature a small pedimented portico supported by columns or pilasters to enhance the main entrance. Colonial Revival windows are double hung with upper sashes typically divided into multiple panes. The lower sash of these windows usually has a single pane of glass. The front door is commonly paneled and decorative with a transom and side lites frequently included adjacent to the door. Exterior shutters are a common feature on Colonial Revival windows.