What Are the Traits of a Bungalow Style House?

Low-pitched Roofs

• One of the most distinguishing characteristics of the bungalow style house is the broad low-pitched roof line. The main roof is often a gable end, with the ridge running perpendicular to the street, or a hip roof with a dormer perpendicular to the ridge. Less common are clipped gables and dormers that project to the side. Recognizable roof details include extended eves, either with soffits or with rafter tails, distinctive trim and brackets or braces that accentuate the overhangs.

Deep Porches

• A second reaction to industrialization was the yearning for a simpler life that reestablished a connection with nature. In the bungalow house this was accomplished by creating deep porches that were intended to be used as outdoor rooms for living, eating, and, in warmer months, sleeping.

  Porches were most commonly roofed by an extension of the primary structure, though sometimes smaller, parallel or complementary roof structures were built. The front porch might be approached via a shallow stair that is flanked by prominent columns that may be tapered, or on piers, or both.

Rectangular Floor Plans

• A rectangular floor plan is consistent in the bungalow style, though there are often bays and porches to add interest. The plan is generated by efficiency and affordability, and many were featured in pattern books of ready-made homes that could be purchased through the mail. The large living spaces flowed from one to the next on one side of the plan with a bedroom either upstairs or running parallel with the living spaces.

Clean and Simple Details

• The approach to detailing a bungalow style house was heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie style homes in Chicago, and his philosophy of “organic” architecture. Lines are clean, quietly bringing together separate elements into a fully orchestrated whole. Doors are paneled, with or without glass at the top. Windows are casement with divided lights at the top.