Ranch interior design ideas
Ranch-style houses – the ultimate guide to the look and how to get it |
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Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
When you picture a ranch-style house, there’s a good chance you envision a remote desert filled with wild horses, cowboys, and the occasional tumbleweed sighting. But, in reality? This American architecture genre has life beyond the wild west.
With a strong presence from coast to coast, ranch-style homes are loved for their versatility and flexibility.
If you want to get acquainted with this beloved architecture, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about ranch-style houses, inside and out.
- See more: House Styles - the complete guide to architectural styles and eras
What makes a house ranch style?
Photography/Daniel Nadelvach
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
It’s not hard to identify a ranch-style house — you just need to know what you’re looking for. While these residences come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, ranch style homes are typically defined as sprawling, low-slung structures.
Multi-storied ranch houses do exist, but you’ll typically see this type of residence spanning across just one floor. The reason is simple: ranch house styles emphasize the delicate balance between indoor and outdoor living.
'I believe the popularity of ranch-style houses can be attributed to their rugged qualities and connection to nature,' explains designer Marie Flanigan .
'This genre of house evokes coziness and can be recreated in any area of the country by employing raw wood elements, textural fabrics, and expansive patio space.'
When did ranch style houses originate?
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
The ranch-style house has always been closely tied with American history. The architecture first became popular in the 1920s, as more and more people headed west.
Not only were the single-story layouts and low-to-the ground silhouettes easy to maintain, but they also helped beat that grueling Southwestern heat.
Ranch homes dipped in popularity shortly after they burst onto the architecture scene; however, the style made a huge comeback as suburbs became more prominent. In fact, after World War II, nine out of 10 new residences were ranch-style houses.
It’s been nearly a century since ranch-style houses were created, and the look is just as popular today as it was back then.
According to a recent study by Trulia, they’re the most popular types of residences in 34 states. Ranch-style houses are oftentimes — but not always — more affordable than other abodes. Plus, since most homes don’t require cumbersome stairs, they’re ideal for family members of all ages.
'Today, they have maintained their popularity for several reasons,' says Liles Dunnigan of The Warehouse Interiors . 'First and foremost, they are ideal renovation candidates.
They can be easily opened up inside by removing interior walls to create more of an open concept that is so desirable today. They also have very low simple roof lines that make additions easy to achieve.'
Types of ranch-style houses
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
Though the ranch house style seems simple, they offer plenty of variety. Deepen your knowledge of the architecture trend with these key categories:
1. The California Ranch
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California-based architect Cliff May put the ranch house style on the map back in the early 1930s, and his take is still considered classic.
This tried-and-true type takes cues from the Arts and Crafts movement that reigned supreme well into the 1920s as well as Spanish colonial architecture.
Additionally, many California ranches have an L or U-shaped silhouette, deftly creating a designated courtyard space.
2. The Suburban Ranch
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When World II ended, many families wanted to escape their hustling, bustling cities. And, with the rise of suburbs came the rise of suburban ranches.
While this type has many of the same features as a California ranch, but are usually smaller and have a simple silhouette. Think of it as a cul-de-sac-compatible alternative.
3. The Split-Level Ranch
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Why settle for one floor when you can enjoy a few? Popular in the 1960s and 70s, split-level ranches stagger their square footage across three to four stories.
Dwellers might enter on one floor, but will need to go up or down a small flight of stairs to reach the den, garage, or bedrooms.
The varying stories might be a far cry from the typical ranch house style, but they’re great for families who want some privacy.
4. The Raised Ranch
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Many people think split-level and raised ranches are the same thing, but the truth is these two styles have some noticeable differences.
While split-level ranches span across several stories, raised residences typically have a total of two floors, usually above and below the entryway.
Both options are departures from the status quo, but the streamlined floorplan makes this style feel more consistent with the classic California home.
Where are ranch-style homes most popular?
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
Ranch house style was initially created in the Southwest, but they have quickly spread to all across the United States of America.
'They are found throughout the US, from the Southwest to the East Coast; they are just different styles depending on what area of the country you are in,' Dunnigan explains.
'For example, California ranch-style houses are considerably larger in scale featuring vaulted ceilings and sunken rooms whereas the North Eastern versions can be much more closed off and feature more rigid floor plans.'
Additionally, in the Midwest, many people deck out their homes with basements. Not only can this addition make the most of their space – especially as they can’t use their backyard in the colder months – but it can also act as protection against tornadoes.
What to look for in a the ranch-style house
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
Though ranch-style houses come in different shapes and sizes, they do have a few characteristics in common.
In addition to their low-slung – and often single-storied – floorplan, they also usually have a low-pitched roof, wide eaves, picture windows, and a designated porch or deck.
Since ranch-style homes are notorious for bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor living, you can also expect a sliding glass door in the backyard. And, like most modern homes, it’s likely a ranch residence will also feature an attached garage.
Of course, those similarities don’t stop with the exterior. Turns out, most ranch-style spaces boast an open-concept layout, giving dwellers the chance to craft their homes however they please.
'The main living areas are centrally located with bedrooms set further away and accessed by a long narrow hallway,' adds designer Darla Bankston May .
'The layout makes it easy to change the function of a room or to remodel in terms of tearing out walls to make a space larger or adding on to the structure of the house.'
How to decorate in ranch house style
Since ranch homes offer a lot of variety, there’s no one way to decorate these residences. However, if you’re looking for some fresh ways to dress up your home, check out these inspiring ideas.
1. Emphasize the open-concept
Photography/Daniel Nadelvach
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
Want to get the most out of your space? Put your home’s layout on full display. While an open-concept floorplan can give your home a light airy atmosphere, filling your place with room dividers or bookshelves can make it feel claustrophobic.
'Don’t over clutter with too much furniture,' Bankston May says. 'When you have an open floorplan for your main living areas you want an easy flow between each space.'
If you want to create the illusion of separate rooms without compromising your home’s airy reputation, break up the space with various rugs.
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
2. Pick a neutral palette
Photography/Michael Hunter
(Image credit: Jon Day)
A paint color has the power to set the mood for your space, and since the ranch house style is typically open-concept, the hue you choose here is even more pressing.
If you want to keep your home airy, open layout at the forefront, stick with light and versatile neutrals. That said, there are more shades than a pristine white. From sandy beiges, to light greys, to a soothing blue, the options are virtually endless.
'When your living spaces are in one large room or adjacent and visible to another, you don’t have to use the same color scheme in each room,' Bankston May recommends.
'An easy way to do this is to choose one or two colors that you repeat in each space. The color used on the dining chairs could be repeated in the pillows on the living room sofa.'
- See: Living room ideas – 25 inspiring ways to decorate and furnish your space
3. Select sleek silhouettes
(Image credit: Rafael Soldi)
Ultimately, your home’s décor style should be a reflection of your personal taste.
However, if you’re not sure which type of furniture works the best with the ranch house style, you can’t go wrong with streamline silhouettes – especially those that pay homage to mid-century modernism.
Originated in the height of the 20th century – and currently making an indefinite comeback – mid-century modernism boasts slim, boxy silhouette and subdued color palettes.
Not only will this style keep your home on trend, but the slim silhouettes will create a lot of negative space, which will emphasize your home’s layout.
4. Embrace the great outdoors
Photography/Daniel Nadelvach
(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)
The ranch house style was designed to create a delicate balance between indoor and outdoor living, so your backyard should not be ignored.
Instead, treat your outdoor space like any other room in the house, complete with comfortable furniture, personable accents, and strategic lighting.
Kelsey Mulvey is a New York-born, San Francisco-based freelance journalist who covers lifestyle and design content. She started her writing career while studying magazine journalism at Boston University, where her work was syndicated by top digital publications like USA Today and MSN.
Upon graduation, Kelsey covered lifestyle content The Wall Street Journal, Off Duty and Business Insider. In 2017, Kelsey started her freelance journalism career, where she contributes to design publications like AD PRO, Elle Decor, Wallpaper*, and more. W
Ranch Style House - Home Bunch Interior Design Ideas
I was reading an article not too long ago about small spaces and how much more comfortable we usually feel in smaller homes when compared to really big ones. That’s when I thought the best kind of house to live might be a ranch style house, especially when you don’t want to deal with stairs and too much to clean. A ranch style house is more practical and the energy seems to flow easier. We’re all connected, the rooms are easily accessed and you don’t have to worry about climbing the stairs every time you forget something in the other level of the house.
This close-to-perfection ranch style house was built, designed & furnished by Spinnaker Development and Newport Beach Interior Design by Details_a Design Firm.
Photography by Bowman Group Photography.
I hope you enjoy it!
The Beauty of a Ranch Style House
I love what the builder did with the driveway: 36″ concrete pads with 4″ mow strips of grass. Helps for drainage an run off water as well.
Stairs
Beautiful architecture!
Foyer
The foyer is always the place to express your personality and what to expect in the rest of the house. Sources: Floors: the floors are from Du Chateau Flooring, Lugano is the finish. Colors: All the trim & finish carpentry were sprayed with a lacquer finish in this home. Painting: Z Gallery.
Dining Room
This dining room is breathtaking!
Coastal Vibe
Sources: Chair’s Fabric: David Hicks La Fiorentina, available through Lee Jofa. Paint: “boutique beige” by Dunn Edwards. Chandelier: Noir fixture, Chairs: Restoration Hardware. Colors: The ceiling and trim colors are the same. Sherwin Williams “old quaker”.
The beams are all painted with a lacquer finish.
Open House Plan
I love this table, but unfortunately it was built by someone that isn’t in the business anymore. Similar here.
Living Room
A nice view of the living room and foyer.
View
This is why so many people choose to live in a rancher.
At Night
Cozy and open at the same time.
Living Room
Sources: The nesting tables are Jamie Young (trade) & the garden stool was purchased from HD Buttercup in Los Angeles – similar here. The rug is a natural jute rug.
Kitchen
Sources: Color: Sherwin Williams 101 White Lacquer (this color was used on all cabinets in this home). Space between the island and the range: 48″. Countertops’ perimeter: 2 1/4″ eased edge detail. Counter Materials: The perimeter counter in the kitchen are Caracus Blue Limestone (polished), island counters are Calcutta Bollini Marble (polished), the eat at island is a custom stained wood top.
Kitchen Dimensions: This space is roughly 20′ x 18′ to the header that separates the kitchen from the family room. Ceilings: These are 8′ ceilings. The builders coffered the ceilings 6″ to allow for the second course of crown moulding and the T&G ceiling detail, it helps out dramatically on shorter ceilings.
Pantry
Notice the neat walk-in pantry. The pantry size is 5′ x 5′.
Island & Sink
I’m in love with this sink.
To the Family Room
The kitchen opens to the family room.
Family Room
Sources: Lighting can be found at Z Gallery or Crystorama Eclipse. The couches were custom made by Details_a Design Firm. Wallpaper: Phillip Jeffries grasscloth, style: “Arrowroot”.
Decor
Great space!
Built-Ins
This is the best way to have a big TV. It’s all about balance.
Powder Room
Sources: Pendants are from West Elm.
Cabinet: is a reclaimed Indonesian dresser. Faucet: Delta
Home Office
Using a bench instead of chairs gives the office a cleaner look. Sources: Desk: similar to Restoration Hardware. Wallpaper: Phillip Jeffries wall covering, Style: “Juicy Jute”.
Bathroom One
Bathroom Two
Bathroom Three
Laundry Room Day
Do you love this laundry as much as I do? Isn’t it a great one?! I love how the big windows and every finishing chosen for this space!
Laundry Room Night
Sources: Counters: Granite called “London Fog”. Dimensions: roughly 6′ x 13′. Tiles: Get the look for less: This is a porcelain tile called “timeless”. Comes in 3″x6″ as well. Looks similar to Calcutta_ Manufacturer: Marazzi, Timeless collection. Cabinets’ Color: Sherwin Williams 101. Doors: The door casings are square stock 1’x4′ mdf, the door is a 1 3/4′ recessed 3 panel shaker door with polished nickel hardware.
These doors can be purchased through any major vendor. The cabinet’s hardware are from Restoration Hardware, polished nickel finish.
To The Master
A beautiful way to approach to the master.
Master Bedroom
Stunning and relaxed! This bed can be found at Crate and Barrel.
Master Bathroom
This is a classic and chic ensuite.
Shower
Sources: Size: 11′ x 20′, The countertops are a marble called Java Suede purchased at Olin in Anaheim. The ceramic tile (4×8) is called “timeless” calcutta on the walls, these can be purchased from Tile Matters in Fountain Valley. The fixtures are Mirabelle “St Augustine” polished nickel can be purchased from Fergusson enterprises. The sinks are Mirabelle as well.
Bath
The perfect combo.
Patio
This is a very practical backyard. Fun and low maintenance.
Fun
Game, anyone?
Sunshine
Relax.
Bar
Bar and outdoor kitchen.
Party
Perfection.
Food
Lunch is served.
Back of the House
This is a wonderful place to enjoy a sunny afternoon…
Moonlight
… or a romantic summer night! 🙂
Many thanks to the designer for sharing the details above.
Wishing you all a very blessed week!
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See more Inspiring Interior Design Ideas in my Archives. Interior Design Ideas: Paint Color
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with Love,
Luciane from HomeBunch.com
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5 main rules - INMYROOM
Tips
Traditional American ranches are small houses made of cheap materials. How modern ranches look like today and what interior details they inherited, read in our review. Today, the famous Moscow designer Elena Krylova told us what exactly is the peculiarity of designing an interior in the style of an American ranch, and how to make it as close as possible to Russian realities.
Elena Krylova is a famous Moscow designer, head of her own design studio. Elena created exclusive interiors for many show business stars, famous politicians and businessmen: Bari Alibasov, Natasha Koroleva, Lena Lenina and many others. During her work, Elena Krylova, together with her team, has implemented dozens of design projects for both residential premises and clubs, restaurants and beauty salons.
Regular participant of business events and TV projects.
1. Materials
Originally an American ranch house built with the cheapest and poor quality materials. The fact is that the hot location and the idle lifestyle did not force dashing cowboys to build high-quality and long-term housing.
Therefore, during the construction, everything that was at hand was used: brick, stone, boards, clay. Today, these materials are also relevant when decorating ranch-style houses.
2. Planning
Naturally, during the crisis there was nowhere to turn around during the construction, so the village housing of the industrious American did not differ in high-rise buildings - one, maximum two floors.
The ranch is also characterized by an asymmetric design and the absence of any internal geometry. The small area of the ranch did not allow dividing the premises into many rooms, so the dining room was almost always combined with the living room and hallway.
At the same time, the first floor was made walkable and equipped with large sliding doors to the veranda and the courtyard. Thus, a visual increase in space was achieved. The only separate room was the bedroom.
Today, the idea of the most spacious ground floor is relevant for many houses. Well, if, as is typical for a ranch, there is only one floor, it is worthwhile to think carefully about the layout and communications in order to fit all the functional areas in a small area of \u200b\u200bthe house.
3. Interior decoration
American ranch style - homey and cozy. Therefore, the interior is not overloaded with decoration and details, but at the same time it is saturated with various family heirlooms.
Ceilings remain pristine, where exposed beams add color to the rustic home.
Of course, preference is given to natural materials for finishing: on the floor - stone or ceramic tiles; on the walls - tinted brick or wood. Furniture - wooden or wicker.
4. Accessories and decor
The interior of the ranch has a lot of original details: chests, forged candlesticks, rocking chairs, earthenware.
Textile - in a small flower with frills. A lot of pillows and carpets give the interior an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. Moreover, many of the details are made by hand or to order.
At the same time, the interior of the ranch is distinguished by a certain brutality typical of the male interior of a real cowboy: forged accessories and furniture, animal skins, textures of raw wood, concrete and brick.
Another integral part of the ranch (as well as any country house for a large family) is a fireplace decorated with concrete, stone or brick. The more textured, the better!
5. Lighting
When designing a ranch-style interior, one should not forget about the lighting that characterizes it. Initially, in order to save money, the ranch was made with as large windows as possible so that sunlight penetrated into all corners of the premises.
