When it comes to old ranch style homes, I feel like I’ve seen it all. My wife and I bought one a few years back, and it was a real… project. Think avocado-green appliances and shag carpet that had seen better days, probably around 1978. But underneath all that was a house with great bones, and the beauty of the original design was still evident.
Ranch houses are a classic American style for a reason. The idea behind ranch homes was to create a functional, casual, and family-centered living space that reflected the lifestyle and social values of the time. They started popping up in the 1960s and offer a cool mix of comfort and practicality all on one floor. Builders of the era played a major role in the widespread popularity and unique features of ranch homes, incorporating built-in elements and customizing layouts to suit modern families. The ranch house is the most prolific residential housing type in the United States, particularly during the post-World War II period. They have this low profile and wide-open feel that just works for family life. Born out of Southern California, they’ve picked up different looks over the years, especially from mid-century modern design. Whether you’re fixing one up like I did or starting from scratch, knowing the basics helps create a home that’s both beautiful and works for you.
TL;DR: Quick Tips for Your Ranch Reno
- Go Big on the Outside: Use natural stuff like wood and stone. Big windows are your friend.
- Open It Up: Knock down some non-essential walls to connect your living, dining, and kitchen areas.
- Kitchen is King: Make it the heart of your home with plenty of counter space and good flow.
- Master Bedroom Retreat: Create a calm space with soft colors and smart storage.
- Bathroom Update: A little paint and some new fixtures can make a huge difference.
- Mid-Century Vibes: Think clean lines, simple furniture, and cool lighting.
- Keep the Charm: Don’t gut everything. Save cool original features to keep the house’s story alive.
Exterior Design for a Ranch Home
First impressions matter, right? The outside of your ranch sets the whole mood. For our place, we wanted to make it feel welcoming from the street. Ranch homes can feature a variety of exterior styles, blending different architectural influences while still maintaining their classic single-story, sprawling footprint.
Taking a photo before and after any exterior updates is a great way to document the transformation.
Bring in Natural Materials
Using materials like wood and stone is a total game-changer for a ranch exterior. We added a stone accent wall around our front door and it instantly gave the house more character. Ranch-style homes are commonly made from natural materials like wood, brick, or stone to integrate with their surroundings. Large windows and sliding glass doors are also key. They help blur the line between inside and out, which is what ranch living is all about.
Color and Landscaping
The color you pick for the outside and the plants you choose make a big impact. We went with a nice, earthy gray for the siding. It feels modern but still fits with the style. For landscaping, we chose plants that don’t need a ton of water. It looks good and saves on the water bill, which is always a plus.
“A ranch house is a canvas. The trick is to paint a picture that respects its simple form while adding your own personal style.” – A wise contractor I once knew.
Open Floor Plans and Layout
One of the best things about ranch houses is their potential for open layouts. Our house originally had a tiny kitchen walled off from the living room. The location of the living room in the floor plan plays a big role in how traffic flows and how functional the space feels. The shape of the living room and main living spaces also impacts the overall feel and usability of the home. The ranch house interior typically included three bedrooms and one bath, with an emphasis on open living spaces. I can only guess that the original floor plan was designed this way to separate cooking and entertaining areas, but it made everything feel so closed in.
Creating Flow
Taking down that wall was the best decision we made. Now, our living room, dining area, and kitchen all flow together. It’s perfect when we have people over. Everyone can hang out in one big space. You can use things like area rugs or a bookshelf to create “zones” without putting up walls.
Think About Traffic
When you open up a floor plan, think about how you’ll walk through the space. We had to make sure there was a clear path from the front door to the back patio. You don’t want to be weaving around furniture just to get a glass of water.
Kitchen and Dining Area
After moving into our new home, which needed several updates after leaving our older house, we were excited to start making changes. The kitchen really is the heart of our home now. When we purchased the house, we knew the kitchen would be a major focus, and the timing of when we purchased it influenced many of our renovation decisions. It’s where my kids do their homework and where we all end up during parties.
Smart Kitchen Design
A good kitchen needs enough counter space for you to actually cook. We put in a big island, and it’s been amazing. It gives me a ton of room for prep work and doubles as a breakfast bar. Smart storage is also important. We added cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling to use every inch of space.
Dining with a View
Our dining area is right next to the kitchen, right by a big sliding glass door that leads to the backyard. It lets in so much natural light. For design touches, we found some cool mid-century modern-style cabinets and a funky light fixture that really pulls the room together.
Master Bedroom Sanctuary
Your master bedroom should be a place where you can just chill out. Ours was pretty basic when we moved in, but we turned it into a real retreat. Owners often personalize their master bedrooms to reflect their unique tastes and preferences.
The end result is a peaceful and inviting retreat.
A Space to Relax
A good master bedroom needs more than just a bed. We made sure to include a small seating area where we can read. Big windows are great here, too, especially if you have a nice view of the backyard. Soft colors and textures make the room feel cozy. We used a lot of soft blues and grays.
Storage is Key
Nothing kills a calm vibe faster than clutter. We put in a large walk-in closet, which was a bit of a splurge but totally worth it. Having a spot for everything makes the room feel so much more peaceful.
Bathroom Renovation
Let’s be honest, old ranch bathrooms can be pretty scary. Ours had pink tile. Everywhere. Updating the bathroom was high on our priority list. Sometimes a simple update is just that—exactly what the space needs. Renovating a ranch home often involves updating kitchens and bathrooms to meet modern standards while maintaining original elements. A fresh bathroom can make the whole house feel newer.
A good bathroom needs a mix of practical storage and nice lighting. We found a mid-century style vanity that had drawers, which helps keep the counters clear. We also painted the ceiling a light color to make the room feel taller. Don’t be afraid of a little decorative lighting to add some personality. Just make sure whatever you choose fits the overall feel of your house.
Mid Century Modern Influences
Ranch houses and mid-century modern design go together like peanut butter and jelly. It’s all about clean lines, simple shapes, and letting the materials speak for themselves.
We leaned into this style hard. We looked for furniture with simple, clean lines and didn’t go overboard with decorations. The big windows and sliding doors already feel very mid-century. Using wood for things like shelves or even an accent wall can really warm up the space and nail that look. The key is to mix it in without making your house look like a museum. It should still feel like a comfortable home.
Decorating a Ranch House
Decorating a ranch house is where the real fun kicks off—this is your chance to put your own stamp on those brilliant wide-open living spaces and classic one-story floor plan. Because ranch homes are dead famous for their open floor plans and easy flow from room to room, you get loads of flexibility to create spaces that work for your family’s lifestyle and sense of style.
One of the best bits about a ranch house is how the living, dining, and kitchen areas often blend together nicely. To make the most of this, use area rugs, lighting, or even a statement piece of furniture to sort out each space without putting up new walls. For example, a bold rug can anchor your dining room, while a cozy sectional can set the tone for the living room. If you’re working with a mid century modern ranch in Southern California, don’t be afraid to have a go with colour and pattern—think bright art, geometric decor, or even a bit of retro flair to echo the era when your house was knocked up.
The master bedroom in a ranch home is usually tucked away on one side of the house, giving you a bit of privacy from the rest of the living spaces. When decorating this room, focus on comfort and keeping things calm. Soft textiles, layered bedding, and a few well-chosen pieces of art can create a proper retreat. If your ranch house has got a converted garage or bonus room, consider turning it into a spacious master suite or a guest bedroom—just chuck in some built-in cabinets for storage and a splash of your favourite colour for personality.
Bathrooms, especially the hall bath that guests and family use, can be a right challenge in older ranch homes. But with a bit of creativity, you can turn even a small bath into a standout feature. Try adding a modern vanity with plenty of cabinets, a fun tile pattern, or a statement mirror. If you’ve got the space, a large tub or walk-in shower can bring a bit of luxury to your daily routine.
Don’t forget the exterior and the transition between indoors and out—a hallmark of ranch style architecture. A welcoming front door, fresh paint, and updated landscaping can boost curb appeal, while a back patio or deck extends your living space outdoors. Use planters, outdoor rugs, and comfy seating to create a brilliant spot for family gatherings or quiet evenings.
For a bit of extra character, look for ways to highlight the original features of your ranch home. Exposed beams, vintage light fixtures, or even a quirky hallway can become focal points with the right decor. Mix in a few antique or mid century modern pieces to celebrate the home’s era, or go for a more country-inspired look with natural materials and rustic touches.
At the end of the day, decorating a ranch house is all about making it functional, beautiful, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or going all out on a renovation, there’s no shortage of inspiration out there. Search for ideas online, visit local home decor stores, or check out photos of renovated ranch homes in your area. With a bit of creativity and a sense of adventure, you’ll end up with a space that’s not just a house, but a proper home—one that’s ready for family, friends, and plenty of new memories.
Preserving Historic Charm in Ranch Houses
Even while you’re updating, it’s cool to keep some of the original character of the house. It’s part of its story! Innovator Cliff May is credited with pioneering the modern ranch house design in the 1930s. Homeowners play a key role in preserving the unique features of ranch houses. Preservationists often hear questions from homeowners about the historic value of their ranch house interiors, especially when considering updates or rehabilitation.
We were lucky enough to have some original built-in cabinets in our hallway. Instead of ripping them out, we gave them a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. They look great and provide awesome storage. Preserving historic interiors, like built-in cabinets, helps maintain the authentic feel of the home. If you find any cool old light fixtures or hardware, try to work them into your new design. It’s these little details that give a renovated ranch house its soul. It’s about finding that sweet spot between old and new.
Inspiration for Your Next Project
I couldn’t wait to see the transformation after all the hard work. Fixing up our old ranch was a ton of work, but I wouldn’t trade it. It’s all about focusing on what makes these homes great: their comfort, simple style, and practicality. I hope you find inspiration here for your own projects. By opening up the floor plan, bringing in natural materials, and adding some mid-century flair, you can create a home that’s perfect for how we live today.
While working on our renovation, I spent a lot of time talking with other homeowners and experts about ranch home renovations and what makes these spaces unique. Whether you’re just starting to look or you’re in the middle of a reno, remember to have fun with it. These houses are meant for living, and they have a timeless appeal that’s hard to beat.
Resources and inspiration for your own ranch renovation can be located in many places, from online communities to local experts.
