Exploring Raised Ranch Homes: Features, Benefits, and Design Ideas

When my wife and I started house hunting, we had a list of must-haves that felt a mile long. One style we kept coming across was raised ranch homes (also called ‘bi-level’ or ‘split-entry’ homes). At first, I wasn’t sure what to make of them. They looked a bit different from the single-story ranches—often referred to as ‘ranch style houses’—I was used to seeing. But the more we saw, the more I realized these houses have some pretty neat features packed inside. They’re a unique blend of traditional and modern, and they definitely grew on me.

TLDR: What’s the Big Deal with Raised Ranches?

• Two Levels of Fun: They have a main level living area upstairs and a whole other finished level downstairs, often referred to as the second level. More space is always a win!
• Split-Entry Style: You walk in and go either up or down a short flight of stairs via a stairwell that connects the two levels.
• Bright and Airy: Big windows and high ceilings let in tons of natural light.
• Budget-Friendly: Often more affordable than other home styles with similar square footage.
• Versatile Lower Level: The downstairs can be anything—a family room, home office, gym, or guest suite.

A Quick Look Back: The History of Raised Ranches

Raised ranch homes popped up around the 1950s and 60s. Families were growing and needed more room, as growing families needed more space, but they didn’t want to spend a fortune. The classic, single-story ranch was popular, but this new “bi-level” design offered a smart way to get more living area on a smaller plot of land. Interestingly, raised ranch-style homes originated in California in the 1930s but became popular across the United States in the 1950s.

Builders could create two full floors of living space, which was a cost-effective solution for many people. This practical design made them a hit, and they spread across the country. Today, you can still find them in many suburban neighborhoods, where the location in the suburbs was especially appealing to families moving out of the city. The contrast between city living and the suburban location of raised ranch homes offered more space, privacy, and a different lifestyle, making them a popular choice for their unique layout and affordability. The design of raised ranches is also particularly suitable for sloped lots, allowing for a walkout basement entrance at ground level in the back.

“The beauty of the raised ranch is its simplicity and practicality. It was a home built for real family life, and that’s why it endures.” – Local Real Estate Agent

What Makes a Raised Ranch a Raised Ranch?

The main difference between raised ranch homes and other home styles is the unique arrangement of levels and entry placement, which sets them apart from traditional ranch or split-level houses. Raised ranch homes were often designed by an architect to maximize space and light within a compact footprint. Their architectural features include shallow rooflines, deep overhanging eaves, and an open floor plan, which contribute to their distinctive appearance.

So, how do you spot one in the wild? There are a few key things to look for. However, it’s worth noting that accessibility issues can arise in raised ranches due to the need to climb stairs to access both levels, which can be challenging for some individuals.

First, one thing you’ll notice is the entryway: it’s typically located at grade halfway between the upper and lower floors. This split-entry design is a hallmark of the raised ranch, with the entry positioned at grade halfway up the front elevation.

Inside, the lower level is sunken below grade—this lower level sunken feature is a defining architectural element. The upper level contains the main living spaces, while the lower level, partially below grade, often houses additional living areas or a garage.

Another distinguishing feature is the window placement. The main living area is elevated above the eye level of neighbors and passersby, providing better views and increased privacy. This elevated position is one of the privacy advantages of raised ranch homes. However, a potential drawback of raised ranches is the risk of the lower level receiving less natural light than traditional above-ground floors.

Key Features of Raised Ranch Homes

• Two Floors: The main living space, like the kitchen, dining room, and bedrooms, is on the upper level. The lower level often has a garage, a family room, or extra bedrooms. Modern construction or recent updates can greatly improve the quality and functionality of this space.
• Split-Entry: When you open the front door, you’re greeted by a small landing and a set of stairs. One goes up to the main floor, and the other goes down to the lower level.
• Big Windows: These homes were designed to feel open and bright. Large windows are common, especially in the living room.
• Outdoor Access: Many have a deck or patio off the dining area, which is great for summer barbecues.

If you prefer a one-story home instead, check out this guide to bungalow home builders.

Here’s a simple chart showing a typical layout:

Level	Common Rooms
Upper Level	Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Area, Bedrooms, Bathrooms
Lower Level	Family Room, Garage, Laundry, Extra Bedroom/Office, Bathroom

Split Level House Layouts

Split level house layouts are dead brilliant for making the most of every square inch you’ve got to work with. In a typical split level or raised ranch style home, you’ll find that the front door opens onto a little landing spot, with a half flight of stairs going up to the main living area and another half flight heading down to the lower level. This cracking use of two floor levels means you can have a proper spacious living area, some private bedrooms on the upper level, and a versatile lower level that’s perfect for a family room, guest suite, or even a home office.

For growing families, this layout is a top pick that ticks all the right boxes. The separation between the upper and lower levels gives everyone their own bit of space—kids can hang about downstairs while parents chill out upstairs, or the other way round. The split level design also means you don’t need long hallways taking up loads of room, so every room feels connected yet private. Whether you’re after more space to spread out or want a home style that offers both openness and privacy, a split level house or raised ranch is a smart choice that’s hard to beat. The stairs and landings add a bit of architectural interest, and the layout is flexible enough to adapt as your family’s needs change over time.

How Are They Different From Other Houses?

When you put a raised ranch next to a more traditional colonial or cape cod, the differences are pretty clear. Traditional homes often have all the main living areas on the ground floor with bedrooms upstairs. A raised ranch flips that idea.

The lower level is a huge bonus. In a raised ranch home, the lower level is sunken below grade, meaning it sits partially below the surrounding ground level. This lower level sunken design is a key architectural feature that sets raised ranch homes apart from other styles. In many older homes, the basement is just for storage or laundry. In a raised ranch, it’s finished living space. I’ve seen people turn this area into amazing home theaters, playrooms for kids, or even a full apartment for in-laws. The possibilities are really fun to think about. Plus, those vaulted ceilings you sometimes find upstairs can make the whole place feel so much bigger than it is.

The Perks of Living in a Raised Ranch

I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of this home style. It’s more than just a quirky layout!

1. More Living Space: You get two floors of usable space. This is a huge plus for families who need room to spread out. Raised ranch homes often provide more space than traditional ranch-style homes due to their finished basements.
2. Great Natural Light: All those big windows do their job well. The main living area is usually bright and cheerful. Because the main living area is elevated above the eye level of neighbors, you also enjoy extra privacy and better views.
3. Separation of Space: The split-level design creates a nice separation between the main living area and the lower level. It’s perfect if you work from home and need a quiet office away from the main hustle and bustle.
4. Value for Money: You often get more square footage for your dollar compared to other home types. This makes them a great option for first-time homebuyers.

Interior Design Options for Ranch Homes

If you’re after a brilliant way to spruce up your ranch home—including those raised ranch and split level beauties—then you’re in for a right treat with all the dead good possibilities to create a space thats both stylish and dead comfortable. One cracking way to give your ranch home a proper boost is by making the most of natural light. Get yourself some massive windows and vaulted ceilings sorted and your main living area will feel bright as anything and airy too, while also showing off the home’s open floor plan to its best advantage.

Getting some natural materials in there like wood beams, stone accents, and hardwood floors brings a load of warmth and character to the space. For a modern touch that’s bang on trend, have a go at adding granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms, paired up with some sleek stainless steel appliances and contemporary lighting fixtures that’ll make the place look the business. Mixing up your textures—like tile in the entryway, some lovely plush carpet in the bedrooms, and wood in the living areas—can help define each room while keeping the overall look nice and cohesive.

Don’t be afraid to have a proper play around with colour and decor. A raised ranch or split level home is a brilliant canvas for both classic and modern styles that’ll knock your socks off. Whether you’re mad about a cozy, rustic vibe or you prefer clean lines and minimalist design thats dead simple, you can use light, windows, and thoughtful finishes to make your ranch home truly your own and give it that personal touch that’s just the ticket.

Exterior Design Options

The outside of your raised ranch or split level home is just as dead important as what’s going on inside when it comes to making a cracking first impression. One of the top ways to spruce up the exterior is by chucking in some outdoor living spaces—think patios, decks, or even a proper wrap-around porch. These spots don’t just give you more room to play with, but they also create a brilliant flow between what’s inside and out, perfect for having mates round or just chilling with the family.

When you’re looking at materials, options like brick, stucco, or vinyl siding can add loads of texture and a bit of flair to your home’s front. Landscaping is another key bit—flower beds, shrubs, and some decent mature trees can frame your raised ranch or split level home beautifully, adding colour and proper curb appeal. Details like shutters, decorative trim, and stylish molding can give your exterior a polished, smart look that’ll stand out from the neighbours.

Whether you’re giving an older ranch a bit of a makeover or designing a brand new split level home, focusing on the exterior design can transform your house into a welcoming, eye-catching space that shows off your personal style. Its a brilliant way to make your home the talk of the street!

Renovation and Update Ideas

If you’re after a way to breathe some fresh life into your raised ranch or split level home, then there are loads of cracking renovation ideas that can make a proper big impact. One of the most popular moves is opening up the floor plan—knocking out walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas to create a dead spacious, modern living area thats perfect for get-togethers. This open-concept approach not only makes the space feel loads bigger but also lets more natural light flow right through the home like nobody’s business. Many raised ranch renovations also focus on updating kitchens and bathrooms to enhance functionality and aesthetics.

Sprucing up the exterior is another smart move thats worth its weight in gold. Popping in some new windows and doors can give your energy efficiency a proper boost and give your home a fresh, updated look thats sure to turn heads. Swapping out that old siding for some modern materials or adding a new front porch can also give your curb appeal a right good lift.

Inside, updating finishes like flooring and countertops can instantly give your ranch a proper modern feel. Think lovely hardwood floors in the main living area, some plush carpet in the bedrooms, and sleek granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms that’ll make your mates green with envy. Some new lighting fixtures and a fresh coat of paint can finish off the transformation, making your raised ranch or split level home feel brand spanking new. With the right renovations, you can create a space thats both dead functional and stylish—perfect for today’s families who want the best of both worlds.

Ideas for Your Own Ranch Style Home

Whether it’s a raised ranch or a single-story one, this style is like a blank canvas. I love browsing for design ideas. Using natural materials like wood and stone can give the home a warm, rustic feel. I’m a big fan of that cozy vibe.

Another popular trend is to focus on connecting the inside with the outside. Think large sliding glass doors that open onto a big deck or patio. It makes the living space feel endless. Inside, you can go in any direction. Some people love a modern, minimalist look with clean lines and simple colors. Others prefer a more traditional style with comfy furniture and classic decor. It’s all about making the space feel like your own. I keep a whole Pinterest board just for this—it’s so inspiring to see what people do with their homes