Ranch-style houses are iconic in American architecture, with their practicality appealing to families, retirees, and even first-time homebuyers. Among the variations of ranch homes, high ranch houses are noted for their exceptional design and functionality.
It will be useful for those looking to purchase or renovate a ranch house, as well as for anyone simply hoping to learn something new.
What Is a High Ranch House?
What is a high ranch house? Also called split entry or split level ranch, a high ranch house is differentiated from a traditional ranch-style home in that it has two separate levels and an entrance foyer that divides to go up a short flight of stairs or descend them.
This space-efficient construction cleverly maximizes available space while increasing square footage without enlarging the home’s footprint. Often, the upper level contains the main living areas, such as the kitchen and dining room, and is accompanied by bedrooms; whereas, on the lower level, family rooms, storage areas, garages, or additional bedrooms are located.
For homeowners and buyers looking to make educated choices regarding their spaces, understanding these distinctions is crucial. In particular, high ranch houses are ideal for people looking to escape the prying eyes of the neighborhood for more privacy and flexible housing arrangements.
A Brief History of Ranch Houses
Appreciating what makes ranch houses unique would require delving into their exceptional history.
Origins of Ranch-Style Architecture
The 1940s and the 1950s in the United States mark the birth period of ranch-style houses. These homes, which drew from the Spanish Colonial architectural style of the American Southwest, were designed to be practical and suited for the vast suburban America’s sprawling landscapes.
The American way of life at these points in time was more relaxed and casual. Thus, ranch houses became a popular choice towards the end of World War due to the accessibility and low horizontal lines complemented by open spaces.
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Post-War Suburban Expansion
Following WWII, there was rampant development of suburbs across the United States. Ranch homes served as an icon of wealth and the American dream. Their bungalows, with the gardens extending indoors, were ideal for older couples and families because of the one-story layout.
Over time, variations of the original ranch design emerged, including the high ranch house, which provided greater living space and more separation between floors.
Characteristics of Traditional Ranch Houses
In what ways do ranch houses differ from other types of homes? Let us examine the most important interior and exterior features served by the ranch houses.
Exterior Features
- Single-Story Design: Single gelegenheit resiential Area Ranch Features Advanced Unit Bungalow Typically, traditional single-story ranch houses offer easy accessibility
- Low Pitched Roof Lines: These homes have soft broad, high windows and doors with shallow sides alveoli with wide overhanging eaves add to the horizontal shapes.
- Large Windows and Sliding Glass Doors: These frameworks hail from the south where summer warmth is almost unending.
Attatched Garages and Patios: Also, Ranch Houses are functional and family-friendly.
Interior Features
- Open Concept Layouts: These units also combine the living room, kitchen and dinning room but seamlessly instead of separately as found in prizes.
- Rectangular, U or L Shaped Designs These variations can be accommodated and used simultaneously within the same area.
- Finished Basements: Most ranch homes possess deeper living and storage spaces known as rooms with a view.
These traits will never go out of style as they combine the straightforward with the convenient. Nevertheless, some notable differences arise from comparing traditional ranch houses with high ranch houses.
What Is Considered A High Ranch House?
Let us now shift our focus to what sets a high ranch house apart after covering the essentials.
Key Features of High Ranch Houses
A high ranch house is a split-level house with two major floors. This is what the configuration generally looks like:
- Upper Floor: This level is home to the most frequently used spaces like the kitchen, dining room, living room, and bedrooms. The floor plan typically follows that of a ranch style home.
- Lower Floor: This level has family rooms, garages, storage areas, or extra bedrooms, so it can be considered multifaceted. It is perfect for the establishment of an independent living area or office.
The design of High Ranch Houses Entryways
An interesting characteristic of high ranch houses is the “split” entryway. When one enters the house, a small landing is visible with a set of stairs that leads both up and down. Up to the main living area and down to the lower level. This combination achieves efficiency and effectiveness which is why a lot of families prefer the high ranch design.
High Ranch Versus Traditional Ranch Houses
To make it easier to understand the differences, here is a side by side comparison:
| Feature | High Ranch House | Traditional Ranch House |
|---|---|---|
| Floors | Two (split-level) | Single-story |
| Entryway Design | Split entry with stairs | Ground-level entry |
| Space Utilization | Separate living areas | Open-concept layout |
| Garage Placement | Often on lower floor | Attached to main structure |
Benefits of High Ranch Houses
Both of these designs have their pros and cons relative to one’s lifestyle and needs. If you need space or more secluded areas, high ranch houses are ideal. On the other hand, traditional ranch houses are perfect for individuals who value simplicity and easy access.
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Multi-generational Family Accommodation
Further separated living spaces enable easier accommodation for multi-generational families. - Customizable Lower Level
The lower level can be tailored to suit a wide array of purposes, such as a guest suite, home office, or entertainment area. - Optimal Space Usage
High ranches utilize space to an optimal level; their two levels leave a lot of room for the square footage.
Why Choose a Ranch House?
Both high and traditional ranch houses tend to attract different prospective homeowners for a multitude of reasons. Here’s why they are still a common preference:
- Excellent Design: Their designs are friendly to families and easy to navigate for seniors or individuals with mobility issues.
- Affordability: Ranch houses tend to be cheaper to construct and maintain relative to multi-storied houses.
- Convenience: Great for elderly folks who value ease of movement, these single-story designs ensure ease of navigation throughout the house.
Helpful Hints for Buying or Renovating a Ranch House
If you are actively searching for a ranch house or looking to make some renovations, here are some helpful hints.
Buying Hints
- When searching, try to find listings that include open spaces, big windows, and garages as part of the property.
- Note the layout and design of the entrance to differentiate between high ranch and traditional ranch houses.
Renovation Suggestions
- Modernize the Exterior: For better appearance, replace older windows with energy-efficient ones, or change the roofline.
- Patios and decks can maximize yard usage, so make sure to turn them into additional living space.
Make the lower level of high ranch houses, such as a home gym or guest suite, into an active living space.
Conclusion
Ranch houses are not just a style of home; they reflect the changes in the requirements of an American homeowner throughout history. From their timeless design, rich history, and the innovative high ranch houses split-level layout, these homes offer something for everyone.
The versatility of ranch houses sets them apart. They blend modern lifestyles with charming designs while keeping practicality and affordability in mind. The enduring appeal of these houses can be attributed to generations of people who admire the elegance of a traditional ranch or the complexity of a high ranch.
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