Models of Ranch Style Homes

Basic Ranch Design

• A basic ranch style house is rectangular with a low roof pitch and a flexible, open floor plan. Picture windows and a sliding glass door are common features. The defining characteristic of a ranch style house is its single floor living space, although basements can be included and finished for additional living space.

Raised Ranch Style

• The desire for outdoor access from a basement saw the introduction of raised ranch houses. Foundations are poured concrete with at least two walls completely enclosed in earth. The most common raised ranch has the front and side walls of the basement foundation enclosed and the fourth, back wall open to daylight.

Split Level Style

• A split level ranch style house is built on a raised foundation. It has at least two sets of stairs (up and down) and the main living quarters are elevated above ground level. The basement, or bottom level, is exposed to daylight. In a typical split level home, the entrance opens to a main living room and a set of stairs leading up to the kitchen, dining room, bedrooms and bathrooms. Opposite the up stairs, is a set of stairs going down to the daylight basement. This room can be used for any number of things, including additional bedrooms, a family or game room, or office.

California Ranch

• The California style ranch house features an L- or U-shaped design with floor-to-ceiling windows. Floor plans are open and all of the rooms have outdoor access. Ceilings typically have skylights and the posts and beams are exposed.