Antebellum Not technically an architectural style, Antebellum refers more to a time and a place. The term “antebellum” means “before war.” antebellum-style homes are modeled after those built across the American South prior to the Civil War. These grand plantation-style homes are in the Greek Revival, Neoclassical or Federal style and feature symmetry, with center entrances, deep porches, balconies and columns.