Northumberland, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, is home to some of the most beautiful and varied architecture in the UK. From fortified stone farmhouses to sleek contemporary homes set against rolling hills, the county offers an inspiring architectural tapestry.
At Crawford Higgins, based in Hexham, we work closely with clients who want to honour local styles while introducing fresh, functional design. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most prominent architectural styles across Northumberland—offering inspiration for anyone planning a new build, extension, or restoration.
1. Northumbrian Vernacular Architecture
Perhaps the most distinctive style in the region, Northumbrian vernacular architecture is rooted in practicality and built from local materials.
Key features:
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Thick sandstone or whinstone walls.
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Small, deep-set windows for insulation.
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Slate or stone-tiled roofs.
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Low, horizontal profiles suited to the weather and landscape.
These buildings—often former workers’ cottages, farmhouses, and barns—are a hallmark of rural Northumberland. Many have been sympathetically converted into homes with the help of local architects familiar with conservation and building regulations.
2. Georgian Elegance
Towns like Hexham, Alnwick, and Berwick-upon-Tweed boast fine examples of Georgian architecture. Built between 1714 and 1830, this style is known for its symmetry and refined proportions.
Common characteristics include:
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Brick or stone facades with a formal, balanced appearance.
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Tall sash windows arranged evenly.
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Elegant, understated detailing.
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Fanlights above doors and decorative ironwork.
Georgian terraces and detached homes remain highly sought after. Architects often work to retain these elegant exteriors while adapting interiors for modern living.
3. Victorian and Edwardian Influence
As Northumberland expanded during the Industrial Revolution, the Victorian (1837–1901) and Edwardian (1901–1910) eras left a strong architectural legacy.
Victorian buildings are often more ornate, with features such as:
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Bay windows.
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Decorative brickwork and stone lintels.
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Gabled roofs and bargeboards.
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Patterned tilework and stained glass.
Edwardian homes moved towards more spacious layouts and simpler decoration, often with:
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Wide hallways.
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Wooden porches.
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Taller ceilings and larger windows.
These properties are particularly common in urban centres like Newcastle and Morpeth.
4. Border Bastles and Fortified Homes
Unique to Northumberland are bastle houses—stone dwellings built in the 16th and 17th centuries during times of border conflict.
Distinct features include:
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Defensive, almost fortress-like construction.
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Narrow windows and thick walls.
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Livestock housed on the ground floor with living quarters above.
While rare, some bastle homes have been preserved and adapted. Working with an architect experienced in heritage conservation—such as Crawford Higgins—is essential for these projects.
5. Modern and Eco-Conscious Designs
In recent years, more contemporary homes have appeared across Northumberland, especially on rural plots and edge-of-village sites.
Trends include:
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Timber cladding and green roofs.
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Large expanses of glazing to capture views.
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Open-plan interiors.
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Low-carbon and passive house principles.
Local planning authorities, including Northumberland County Council, encourage well-considered contemporary architecture—especially when it responds to context and landscape. At Crawford Higgins, we specialise in blending modern functionality with design that respects its surroundings.
6. Estate and Gothic Revival Architecture
Many of Northumberland’s country estates and larger homes reflect Gothic Revival or Victorian Gothic influences.
Common in places like Rothbury or around Wallington Hall, these buildings include:
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Pointed arch windows.
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Decorative stonework and turrets.
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Steep roofs and chimneys.
While fewer private homes are built in this style today, elements such as window shapes or stone detailing often inspire restorations and extensions.
How to Choose the Right Style for Your Project
Choosing the right architectural style is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about:
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Context: How does the style fit with nearby buildings or the landscape?
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Functionality: Will the layout and features suit your lifestyle?
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Planning constraints: Conservation areas or national park boundaries often restrict design choices.
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Sustainability: Blending tradition with modern building performance is increasingly important.
Working with a local Hexham-based architect like Crawford Higgins ensures that your project respects both the visual identity of Northumberland and your personal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I build a modern house in a rural area of Northumberland?
Yes, but it must be carefully designed to reflect the character of its setting. Planning authorities often favour buildings that respond sensitively to local materials and scale.
Q: How do I renovate a Georgian or Victorian home without losing its charm?
An architect can help balance restoration with innovation—retaining period features while upgrading energy efficiency and flow.
Q: Will planning permission be harder in a conservation area?
It can be, but a good architect understands local planning policy and can prepare designs and documentation that align with council expectations.
Final Thoughts
Northumberland’s architectural diversity offers both inspiration and responsibility. Whether you’re restoring a listed cottage or building a cutting-edge family home, understanding local styles helps you create something timeless and rooted in place.
At Crawford Higgins, we take pride in designing buildings that celebrate Northumberland’s architectural legacy—while meeting the needs of modern life.
