There are several house types around the world in the real estate market that may be confusing for potential home buyers. Every house type has its features and specs that are tailored to everyone’s needs and means.
In this article, let us discuss what is a ranch-style house, its features and why American families prefer them, even today. So, without wasting time, let’s dive in!
1. What Is a Ranch Style House?
A ranch-style house, or a rancher or a rambler house, is a single-story house with open spaces, a low-pitch roof line, big windows, a large basement, and with or without an attached garage. It is an architectural technique, that originated in the United States of America.
Often known as the ‘house of suburbs’, ranchers are popular due to their low cost and large, open spaces.
Some of the American states, like California, Texas, North Carolina, and Ohio, have these house types due to their warm weather, compared to other states.
In addition, young families who want a spacious home prefer ranch-style houses to save money. They choose this house type to raise their children or to start a new chapter in their lives.
So, if you and your family like open spaces and minimalism, this house is just for you!
2. History of a Ranch-Style House
An American architect, Clifford May, popularized this house style in Southern California during the 1930s, which emerged as one of the most popular architectural styles ever.
The traditional ranch-style house took inspiration from the 19th-century Spanish Colonial architecture, to accommodate its people.
It also had simple designs and an open-concept interior. They also used local and native building materials to remind themselves of their Spanish roots.
Ranch Homes became popular after World War II when the middle class began to economically grow, in the U.S., as they preferred the big and open floor plan. They wanted to accommodate their growing family without space or living constraints.
They also wanted to save their hard-earned money for other expenses to start their lives in a simple, humble home.
Though ranch homes look quite simple, compared to the traditional bungalows and Roman Villas, they can be easily modernized, without burning a hole in your pocket!
3. Features of a Ranch-Style House
As ranch houses are one of the popular houses preferred in the real estate market, let us see some of its defining features, that are worth buying!
3.1. Single-Story Floor Plan
Mostly, ranch homes have single-story floor plans with all the rooms, placed on the ground level itself.
Unlike the modern home’s traditional features or a two-floor villa, the ranch homes have a finished basement space with an attached garage for spacious storage. They also have a devoted patio space, for all ‘outdoorsy,’ activities.
3.2. Open Floor Plan
Ranch houses usually have an open floor plan with few or no walls, to separate two rooms. For example, the living space and the dining room are not separated in ranch houses.
Also, it is straight, rectangular, L or U-shaped. There is no separation between the rooms and interior and exterior space. But, if you want to separate the rooms, you can use room dividers or partitions.
3.3. Low Pitched Roof
Most ranch houses have a low-pitched roof, that is very close to the ground. As there are no floors above the house, the roof is also designed that way.
They usually have wide eaves. Also, these types of houses do not have an attic.
3.4. Big Windows
If you love well-lit rooms with a light breeze and natural light, you must have big windows, and this is possible if you have a ranch-style house.
Maximum ranch homes have large windows with adequate length and breadth that lead to wide rooms.
3.5. Sliding Glass Door
Most ranch-style houses have sliding glass doors to access the backyard. Sliding glass doors minimize space constraints.
If you aren’t a fan of these types of doors and want something classy and elegant, try using French windows to access the backyard.
3.6. Lesser Backyard Space
Ranchers usually have a lesser backyard space as it is sprawled along the building area with less outdoor space. However, this depends on the plot size and location.
Furthermore, most real estate experts say the space is adequate for all outdoor activities like hosting a barbecue night, party, etc. The backyard space is perfect for a family who have kids and pets, to have fun.
4. Types of Ranch-Style Houses
There are many types of ranch-style houses out there that are worth purchasing. Each ranch-style architecture is quite similar, to the other and is just called by different names.
4.1. Californian Ranch
This is the original design of all. The Spanish colonial architecture style inspired the California Ranch in the 1920s and is in vogue even today.
This type dominated the 20th-century real estate market after World War II and is now modified to match the tastes of this century.
The downside is that building or buying a California Ranch might be expensive, than other house types.
4.2. Modern Ranch
Though Californian Ranches have inspired this ranch type, it has a modern touch to it. However, it does not display the classic Spanish colonial architecture but looks modern and sophisticated.
It has state-of-the-art appliances and contemporary interior designs, giving a modern spin to an antique style.
The main disadvantage is that it might get expensive because of the size area and the modern equipment availability.
4.3. Suburban Ranch
This is the classical American style. After World War II, middle-class people wanted to buy homes that were both affordable and huge at the same time.
Suburban Ranches, may or may not have a garage, and compared to the modern designs, it may look old.
But, it is quite reasonably priced, as opposed to other house types. So, if you are on a budget, this is the perfect house.
Always remember that with a little TLC, you can renovate suburban ranches anytime.
4.4. Estate Ranch
The word ‘estate’ itself means a huge house on a sprawling land, which is found near lakes and barns. Compared to the classical ranchers, an estate ranch has a lot of room to accommodate a big family.
They also offer a big patio and backyard, which is highly suitable to host parties. So, if you love to hang out in your backyard and love to heat the grill, this is the perfect fit.
The only disadvantage is that it is quite expensive compared to other ranchers, as estate ranches require a lot of maintenance and upkeep.
4.5. Storybook Ranch
Storybook Ranch is a mix of the Californian Ranch and the Suburban style, that looks straight out of a fairy tale.
It gives a rustic feel, and if you love all things rustic and bohemian, you will love this house.
When you prefer something sophisticated and glamorous, this is a big no. But if you are eager to spend some money, you could renovate it anytime.
4.6. Raised Ranch
Raised Ranch does not start at the ground level but is separated into two halves. The house usually has steps leading to the foyer.
The living room, kitchen, bedroom, etc., are on the top floor, whereas the basement is down under.
A raised ranch mostly gives a compact feel and a lot of privacy. If you want big rooms, raised ranches will not work out.
4.7. Split Level Ranch
This is quite similar to the raised ranch but with some unique features. Suburban Ranches has inspired this house type, which has a living room, kitchen, etc., on the ground floor and has a bedroom or workspace above, which can be accessed with stairs.
Also, there is an attached basement or garage for storage. When you don’t want stairs, this house is not a good fit. Split Level Ranch is commonly known as the ‘cousin’, of the Raised Ranch.
5. Pros and Cons of a Ranch-Style House
Owning a ranch-style house has its pros and cons. When you want to invest your hard-earned money into something timeless and comfortable, you have to weigh the merits and demerits.
5.1. Pros of a Ranch-Style Home
5.1.1. Large and Open Rooms
They have limited or no walls, because of an open-concept layout. So, the house will look big and well-lit. If you prefer this design type, a ranch-style house is the perfect fit.
5.1.2. It Is Budget-Friendly
Nicknamed the ‘humble home’, ranch-style houses are pretty cheap. They are pretty affordable to buy or build. As it is pretty reasonable, you can save money to spruce up the interiors.
5.1.3. Easy Maintenance
As ranch-style houses have a single floor, it is easy to clean and declutter the house. You need not spend too much time sprucing up your home as the built-in area is quite compact.
5.1.4. Simplicity and Minimalism
When you always prefer minimalism above anything else, a ranch-style house fits the bill. The houses have simple designs, without any flair of drama or grandeur, that look minimalist and cozy.
5.1.5. Senior Citizen-Friendly
These types of houses are a boon for senior citizens who find it difficult to climb the stairs. As the living space is also minimalist, this is the perfect place to call a ‘home’.
5.2. Cons of a Ranch-Style Home
5.2.1. No Room for Improvement
You cannot expand your house with ranch-style houses (i.e.), you might find it difficult to build a second floor atop the house.
In other words, only horizontal expansion can be done, whereas vertical expansion is not possible.
5.2.2. No Privacy
As the rooms are not separated by walls, and have an open look, there is little or no privacy in the house.
But, if you need privacy, construct some walls around your home to separate the rooms.
5.2.3. Less Backyard and Patio Space
As these types of houses have a horizontal layout, they take up more square feet than traditional homes.
So, if you consider buying a ranch-style home, you might feel that the backyard and patio spaces are limited.
FAQs
1. Is a Ranch-Style House Worth It?
A ranch-style house, or a rancher or a rambler, is a single-story house with open spaces, low-pitched roofs, large windows, a finished basement space, and an attached garage.
It is an architectural style, which originated in the United States of America. Young families who want a spacious home can buy or build ranch-style houses.
However, this kind of house is worth it, and a lot of factors are responsible, like budget, environmental impact, size of the property, and many more. But, yes, there are some consequences to opting for Ranch-style houses.
2. Where Did Ranch-Style Houses Originate From?
An American architect, Clifford May, popularized this house style in Southern California during the 1930s, which emerged as one of the most popular architectural styles ever.
19th-century Spanish Colonial architecture led to the birth of this house style, which had simple designs and an open layout to accommodate its people.
Ranch Homes became popular after World War II when the middle class began to grow economically in the U.S. when they preferred the big and open floor plan to accommodate their growing family without space or living constraints.
3. What Type of Ranch-Style House is Considered Best?
Picking anyone would be difficult because each is unique in its way, and offers its charm. Some types are the Californian Ranch, Suburban Ranch, Modern Ranch, Estate Ranch, Storybook Ranch, Raised Ranch, and Split Level Ranch.
Moreover, most styles are quite similar to each other and only have minor changes. But, all ranch-style homes have their own merits and demerits.
Bottom Line
There have been several architectural movements in the U.S., since time immemorial, but ranch homes became quite popular among American citizens than other house types.
Despite having its pros and cons, it is still a popular choice in the real estate market. We think that now you know, what is a ranch-style house, after reading this article.
The above-mentioned facts and tips are only for reference. So, if you want to know more about its specs and price, consult with your realtor to make further decisions. Also, consult with your bank regarding your finances or about any housing loan.
