What's The Best Location For A Ranch Home Addition

Learn Where To Add A Ranch Home Addition For Your Specific Circumstances

Ranch-style homes are great because everything is located on one floor. Plus, they are easier to add to than a multi-level home.

Ranch-style homes are characterized by their single-story layout, functionality, and open floor plans. A long-time staple of American residential architecture, many homeowners eventually feel the need for upgrades and expansion to meet their changing lifestyle needs over time.

If you are considering adding a ranch home addition, it’s crucial to consider several factors before construction starts. Deciding what type of addition you want, how much space you have available, your existing home’s layout, and your priorities are just a few key considerations.

Let’s explore some of the pros and cons of adding to the side, the back, the front, or adding a second-story ranch home addition.

Understanding the Basics of a Ranch Home Addition

Ranch-style homes are the ultimate mid-century home style, originating in the post-war 20th century. They are characterized by the single-story design, clean aesthetics, and spacious floor plans. Originally built with functionality and affordability in mind, they quickly became a staple design in American suburbia.

Despite their simple design, the typical ranch home layout is flexible, which makes it ideal for home additions. Ranch-style homes feature linear, rectangular, or L-shaped layouts and are often asymmetrical with low-pitched roofs. This home style offers homeowners many opportunities for additions. Ranch homes can be extended in virtually any direction. View Our Home Additions Project Portfolio

Tips For A Ranch Home Addition

If you’re considering a ranch home addition to meet your family’s changing needs. Here are a few tips and considerations.

First, Evaluate Your Current Floor Plan

The first step is to assess your current situation and floor plan. Knowing what you have and the features you like, as well as defining your needs, can help you identify the path forward. Whether you are looking to increase the square footage of your home, add a sunroom, or a master suite, an accurate understanding of your current floor plan and future needs is the place to start.

Add A Second Story

Traditionally, ranch-style homes offer single-story living. Adding a second story can double your square footage without altering your home’s footprint. The good thing about adding up is that you can create a partial second-story addition. Adding a full or partial second story is an excellent option if your home is located on a smaller lot and you can’t add to your home horizontally. If you choose to add a full or partial second story, consider the roofline and how the new design will complement your existing home structure.

Expanding Horizontally

One of the favorite features of the ranch style is single-story living. The lack of stairs is helpful if you choose to stay in your home as you age. If you have outdoor space, a ground-level addition is a great option. A ground-level addition can be added to the front, back, or sides of your home. This addition can function as an extension of your current living space, a new bedroom, a dedicated playroom for the kids, or a home office. The key to a seamless look is to create a design that integrates into your existing living space.

Modifying the Roof Line For Additional Space

Sometimes, a simple project like adjusting the roof line can create additional space, such as a loft or storage space, without drastically altering your home’s traditional ranch silhouette. This can be a beneficial addition if you want to maintain your home’s single-story aesthetic while unlocking more space.

Indoor-Outdoor Living

A sunroom or three-season porch is a great way to increase living space and can serve as a gateway to your outdoor space. Today, indoor-outdoor living is popular with homeowners. A sunroom can enhance the connection with the outdoors. This type of addition is very inviting because it allows homeowners to enjoy natural light and views of their gardens or yard, year-round.

Finished Basements and More

If you need more space but your budget is tight, there are a couple of ways to add valuable living space without breaking the bank. Using existing spaces can offer significant savings. For instance, if your home has a basement, it can be transformed into a variety of spaces the entire family can enjoy, like a home theatre, spare bedroom, in-law suite, or home office, to name just a few. Another option is to enclose a carport or turn your sunroom or enclosed porch into a four-season space.

No matter which option you choose, it’s crucial to speak with a design-build professional like Degnan Design-Build-Remodel. With their experience transforming homes, they can guide you toward the best options to meet your needs and budget. Adding a ranch home addition is an exciting project. Whether you choose to add a second story, incorporate a sunroom, enclose your carport, or enhance your living space, there are plenty of ways to add the square footage you need.

When deciding on your options, consider your home’s overall design, curb appeal, and your family’s changing needs. With proper planning and the right design-build team, your ranch home can evolve into a more spacious and inviting house that your entire family will enjoy.

Are you considering a ranch home addition or any other home improvement projects? Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, a bathroom update, or a full addition, let us help you create a new look and design for your home! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We are always happy to answer your questions.