Colonial styles refer to architectural designs that emerged during the period of European colonization, particularly in the Americas. These styles often reflect the cultural influences of the colonizing countries, such as England, Spain, France, and Portugal. Common features include symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, and the use of local materials, which adapted European designs to the new environment. In the United States, notable colonial styles include Georgian, Federal, and Dutch Colonial. Each style has distinct characteristics, such as the use of brick in Georgian homes or the gambrel roof in Dutch Colonial designs. These architectural forms have significantly influenced American building practices and aesthetics.