The key to distinguishing the Mediterranean style is the tile roof and restrained ornamentation (as opposed to the elaborate details on a Spanish Colonial structure). Built in Colorado during the 1920s, these structures are generally stucco or brick, often painted white to contrast the brightly colored roof tiles. Roofs are low pitched gable or flat (behind a parapet) on smaller homes and are low pitched, hipped on some larger homes. Another characteristic feature is the extension of a side or front wall to form an arcaded entrance or porch. Windows are sometimes casements, framed by wooden or wrought iron grills or small second story balconies called balconets.

The Mediterranean style was used for churches, schools and residences, both on a grand scale and on more modest homes. In comparing a Mediterranean style house to a Spanish Colonial house, the Mediterranean example will have a flat or plainer surface, few projections, and limited ornamentation. The heavy tile roof is generally the dominant characteristic.