The Ranch Style House

One of the most fun parts of an Austin home search is exploring the wide variety of architectural styles available in this growing city. Whatever style of home you prefer, large or small, historic or modern, an Austin real estate agent from the Carvajal Group can help you find the perfect residence.

Ranch Homes

One popular style of home in Austin, and across the country, is the ranch style home. Although their popularity waned in the 1970s, interest has been growing again in recent years as homeowners rediscover the humble charm and warm friendliness of this style of home.

History

This uniquely American style was inspired by the Spanish homes popular in the Southwest during the early twentieth century. These spacious, one floor houses were designed for practicality above all else. The simple design and use of native materials such as adobe and wood meant these homes could be constructed quickly with a minimum of fuss.

Modern California architects such as Cliff May and William Wurster were the first to blend Western architectural styles with traditional Spanish designs to invent the Ranch style house. This style quickly spread through the region, and by the 1950s had become exceedingly popular around the country.

Features

Individual ranch homes can vary widely as innovative architects continue to experiment with developing and blending designs. Features that are commonly included in Ranch houses include:

• A long, low roofline
• Stucco, brick and wood exteriors
• A U-shape or L-shape enveloping a yard or patio
• Spacious, open floor plans
• Large windows and sliding glass doors

Put together, these features create a warm, inviting, casual environment that many people enjoy.

For more information about Ranch style Austin homes, contact an Austin realtor through the Carvajal group at 512.419.7770.