The majority all of the residences in Telluride are considered vernacular. This means that they reflect local taste, custom and materials. With the exception of a few brick buildings, the majority of the structures are of wood frame construction. Wood siding is the most common exterior treatment, and variations include clapboard, board and batten, shingle and simple drop siding. The early residential buildings were constructed for the sole purpose of providing shelter and, for the most part, did not seek to imitate any other styles. There are some homes that are more decorated than others, and those tend to reflect the influences of Queen Anne or Gothic Revival. Generally, the L-type, gable end and hip-roof residences are simple and contain relatively little decoration.