Ranch House Plans: Porches

The first ranch house plans were not necessarily known for their front porches. This style of home is most notable for its simple exterior characteristics such as a small portico or recessed entry. Though, many one-story home styles are grouped into the “ranch” category. Ranch home plans borrow from a number of diverse house styles such as Craftsman, Prairie, and Spanish. Therefore, one element that can often be seen in a traditional ranch house plan is a more substantial front porch.

Home plans with covered front porches were first popular over 100 years ago. Originally designed for cooling off during the heat of the day, the front porch became a comfortable spot for relaxing with family and socializing with neighbors. In later years, with the invention of the radio, and then television, more emphasis was put on the inside of the home. It was then that the front porch disappeared from most house plans.

With a resurgence in popularity in the late 20^th century, the front porch has now become an extension of the indoors for entertaining and dining. In addition to adding valuable outdoor living space, a covered front porch gives added curb appeal to the home.

 

Rosemary Bay-Front Porch-Plan #6781

Porches can be wide or narrow along the front of the house or even wrap around three or four sides of the home. A lovely example of the latter can be found in Sater Design’s “Davenport”.

Davenport-Front Elevation-Plan #7074

The traditional layout of this house plan reflects its basic ranch design. The exterior detail of a wraparound porch, with stonework and clapboard siding create a French Country façade with Old World appeal.

All interchangeably used with the word “porch”, the verandahs, loggias, and solanas in Sater Design house plans are designed with function, relaxation, and beauty of the home in mind.

Does your ideal home plan include any of these unique outdoor spaces? See all of our home plan designs, including One-Story (Ranch House Plans), Farmhouse, and Cottage home plans, for more porch and outdoor living options. And be sure to follow us on Pinterest for more ideas to enhance your home, indoors and out.

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