New York’s architecture ranges in style all throughout the state, with amazing man-made structures nearly everywhere you turn. If you’ve run out of episodes of your favorite HGTV show to watch, then perhaps it’s time you go for a drive around the state to see what eye-catching homes can inspire you right here in your own backyard. From historic structures to living pieces of art, take a look at these unique houses!
1. The Armour-Stiner House - Irvington
Also known as the Octagon House, the Armour-Stiner House is a Victorian-style home down in the Hudson Valley that also happens to be shaped like an octagon! Surprisingly, there are actually quite a few octagon houses in New York - but this just so happens to be one of the most visually stunning. Listed as a National Historic Landmark for over 40 years now, the house was originally built back in 1860 and is an absolute true work of art. Right on West Clinton Avenue, the four-story house even features its own observatory!
2. Mushroom House - Pittsford
Hands down one of the most visually unique homes in New York, out in the town of Pittsford on Park Road you can get a look at the Mushroom House. Built in the early 1970s, the house is made up of three 80-ton concrete mushroom pods and looks unreal once you get inside. Created by handfuls of artists, inside the house you'll get to see unique tile work, stained glass creations, and so much more unique decor that will leave you speechless. A town landmark since 1989, the house has had different owners throughout the years and in the last several years has even been available to rent and check out.
3. Prophet Isaiah's Second Coming House - Niagara Falls
When you're done gazing at one of New York's most mesmerizing natural wonders, venture outside of the state park and see what other head-turning attractions there are to discover. Right on Ontario Avenue, the colorful house was created by a man who said that God gave him the direction to put together this eye-catching exterior. The home itself has now become something of a roadside attraction, with visitors of the city pulling over to take pictures and see this unique marvel for themselves.
4. Just Room Enough Island - Alexandria Bay
Like the octagon houses of New York, jaw-dropping homes like the one situated on Just Room Enough Island are a common sight out along the St. Lawrence River. Fearless residents who out on the river set up homes on islands where yes, there's just enough room for a house and not much else. The home was purchased by a family back in the 1950s who longed to have their own private getaway, even planting a tree on the land so that it would be considered an official island.
5. Wings Castle - Millbrook
Just off of Bangall Road in the town of Millbrook, Wings Castle is a special structure in New York that some residents don't even realize exists. Created over the course of 40 years by a man named Peter Wing with the help of his loving wife Toni, the unique castle started off as the couple's home and has now grown into an amazing attraction and Bed & Breakfast! Roughly 80% of the castle was made from recycled materials, also made up of other one-of-a-kind treasures that the Wing's would search for and stumble upon. There may be other castles in our state, but not many have an origin of being a residential home that was built by one of our local residents!
6. The Painted Village In The Sky - Tannersville
Down in the northern Catskills, the small town of Tannersville is vibrant, to say the least. The charming mountain town once had a main street that looked like any other, but after one resident in town turned the exterior of her home into something full of color and unlike anything else, the town quickly realized this aesthetic is one that could be applied to all the buildings in the area! Travel around the town of Tannersville and you'll find multiple homes that will get your attention with their whimsical pops of color that you aren't used to seeing.
7. Mohonk Mountain House - New Paltz
Perhaps one of New York's most famous "houses", the Mohonk Mountain House is a Victorian Castle that sits along the shores of Lake Mohonk. Built between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Mohonk Mountain House feels like the home that you always envisioned your fairy godmother having. Full of character and old-time charm, lucky New Yorkers can now spend the night in this unique home for an adventure that they'll never forget.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.