Spotlight on the Midcentury Ranch
If you live in or around Atlanta, you’ve probably noticed the overwhelming number of mid-century ranches throughout our city. In fact, more than 20 million people in the U.S. own a mid-century home! It’s not surprising, considering that in the 1950s, 1.1 million new homes were built every year – the ranch being the most popular style.
Recently, the ranch has exploded back into popularity thanks to the “retro” revival. Regardless of popularity, ranches are among our favorite houses to renovate.
Why We Love Renovating Ranches
1. Good Bones
Ranches typically have “good bones” – meaning the structural components are intact and sound. Foundations are solid and often include thick cement block walls. The framing lumber is substantial and in excellent shape, barring any rot or termite damage. The framing, plumbing, and electrical are also close to today’s standards and may require less updating – which means more of your budget could go towards other things on your wish list!
2. Adaptable Floorplans
The typical ranch home includes many rooms – all close in proximity. By creatively using all of this available square footage, we can often remove walls and make interior adjustments to support today’s open floorplan preferences. Working within the home’s existing footprint also stretches your budget further.
3. Simple Details
Ranches were purposely built with simple details, giving the homeowner a blank canvas to work with. Although you may find a few original ranch masterpieces around town, the majority of Atlanta ranches have simple finishes of a more colonial style. A good thing, because today’s ranch can be easily adjusted to reflect a traditional, modern, retro, or craftsman façade.
4. One Level Living
As baby boomers begin to retire, the concepts of one level living and aging-in-place continue to grow. As a CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist) certified remodeler, we can make your ranch home even more appealing to people of all ages and abilities.
Other ranch features we love: big windows, sliding glass doors, large yards, geometric designs, clean lines, we could go on and on. . .
If you’re a lucky ranch owner, your home is your canvas. From ranch conversions to rear additions to interior remodels, the possibilities are endless.