Colonial house plans reflect the uncomplicated and refined taste of early settlers in America . Simple, classic detailing characterizes Colonial home plans. Colonial homes draw influences from Dutch, English, and French architecture; creating a range of regional interpretations. Colonial floor plans feature a welcoming center hall design with living room on one side, dining room on the other, and kitchen and private rooms in the back as a practical, family-friendly design that makes entertaining a special pleasure. Typical Colonial design features include symmetrical exterior styling, multipane windows, and central front doors, shutters, and pilasters. Pillars and columns are common, often expressed in temple-like entrances with porticos topped by pediments. Colonial home designs use multi-pane, double-hung windows with shutters, dormers, and paneled doors with sidelights topped with rectangular transoms or fanlights to help dress up the exteriors which are generally wood or brick.