The Acadian style of home plan took influence from French country homes due to settlers from rural France moving into Canada in North America in early colonial times. The heavy snowfall in the Northeast required steep and sturdy roofs and a hearty exterior to make it through the tough winters This is why most Acadian or French Colonial homes feature steep hip roofs and brick or stone exteriors. From there, the Acadian style moved south to other French based colonies such as Louisiana where the style of home faced additional challenges such as warm subtropical heat and stormy conditions near the Gulf. The inclusion of robust covered porches and front window shutters allow for comfortable outdoor living space but allow for protection during rough storms. The French influence remains a strong factor in the design of the Acadian style home plan though, with Rounded window and entry door headers and it is common to see decorative gables or dormers in the roof line. While some Acadian plans don't feature large front porches, if a plan features a porch it typically is supported by straight columns without a railing around the porch.
