Ranch style

Ranch style (also known as a rambler style) was first seen in the United States in the 1920s and was extremely popular from the 1940s until the 1970s. During this period, the use of the Ranch style seemed to grow exponentially. This type of architecture was popular when building tract housing. Also, the ease and ability to add onto the ranch style house made it extremely desirable. Ranch homes were later adapted to be split-level,bi-level, raised ranch, and split entry but still maintain many of the Ranch style qualities.

Features

 * Single story
 * Low pitched gable roof
 * Deep-set eaves
 * Horizontal, rambling layout: Long, narrow, and low to the ground
 * Rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped design
 * Large windows: double-hung, sliding, and picture
 * Sliding glass doors leading out to patio
 * Attached garage
 * Simple floor plans
 * Emphasis on openness (few interior walls) and efficient use of space
 * Built from natural materials: Oak floors, wood or brick exterior
 * Lack decorative detailing, aside from decorative shutters

History
In the late 1950s, the Ranch style of architecture made up 90% of the residential construction projects. Ranch homes were popular because they could accommodate the needs of any owner and could easily be added on to. Americans were facing simpler times and found the ranch home to be complimentary to those desires. Ranches, or its descendents, were built across America. In the first twenty years of the ranch's popularity, the outer style of the home was usually rustic. In the later years, the ranch homes began to get a western and fantasy styling. In the 1960s, Americans began to change their feelings towards the modernly designed homes. A need for traditional and formal style soon proved to much for the Ranch architecture to overcome. The ranch home fell predominately out of favor in the 1970s. Because most ranch homes were located on large pieces of property, an increase in land prices forced the idea of a ranch home out of favor. More two story homes were built in attempts to avoid spending money on a large piece of land.

Though there was a renewed interest in ranch homes in the 1990s, not many new ranch styles were constructed. Instead of building a new ranch home, old ranch styles were purchased and updated to meet the standards of today's home buyer. People that are first time home buyers or who are experiencing a shortage on money find that the ranch style home is a good investment. Also, these homes are usually modern in infrastructure and include heating and air conditioning and all other ammenities can be easily installed.

Architects
Notable architects associated with this style include:
 * Frank Lloyd Wright
 * Cliff May