Ranch House Plans

Ranch House Plans

The ranch house developed in the late 1920s and early 1930s and took inspiration from early California ranchos. It became the dominant American home style from California to New Jersey in the 1950s and 1960s. Designers like Cliff May helped popularize it. Ranch homes are typically one story though split-level designs are common. There are few decorative elements except shutters or porch-roof supports. The exterior is faced with wood, brick, or a combination of both. Key rooms open to the outdoors. The classic L-shaped rambling Ranch floor plan combines the living and dining areas into one, with a short hallway or exterior gallery that leads to the family room and bedrooms. Rectangular or U-shaped floor plans are also common. Sliding doors often lead to a rear patio.