Let me tell you, a lot of stairs are a good deal when it comes to architecture, and you would like to have them when you are an architect enthusiast or someone who likes to do their own space design.
What is a Raised Ranch House?
A raised ranch is a ranch-style house that's set upon a raised foundation with a finished basement. Upon entering, you will encounter a flight of stairs that are separated by split entry, either leading up to the main upper level or going down to the lower level. The upper level consists of the kitchen, bedrooms, living room, bathroom, and dining room, and the lower level is a finished basement, which can be used for various purposes like a garage or might fit a bedroom or bathroom for guests, providing privacy to both homeowners and guests.
But why would anyone buy it? Let's see.
History and It's Origin
While you may see many ranch-style homes in the New York area, they originated on the West Coast in the 1920s. Once their influence reached the east, the foundation had risen a half-story, and the one-level ranch was "raised" to create two levels.
It became popular in the 1960s, the time of the post-modern "colonial" movement, and was apparently built in the 1980s.
Design and Layout
The architectural design of open floor plans in raised ranch homes brings a sense of space between the living areas.
Meanwhile, split-level design and the strategic installation of windows enhance the home's ambiance.
Open Floor Plans
The unique choice of spaciousness and connectivity enhances the combined functionality with aesthetic appeal, offering various leads. The houses would be more inviting and wide-ranging if we could have the absence of divided walls in the main living areas. The open layout between the living room and kitchen allows family members to converse smoothly.
Split-Level Design

It separates the sleeping quarters from communal areas, providing privacy awarding useful space. It features a distinctive design that opens to an entrance leading into the living area that is unique due to its elevated positions.
Upgraded Natural Light
An extended feature of the raised ranch is its straight view of large-picture size windows, which penetrate natural light straight into the living spaces. Imagine a large sliding window on the upper level; it would distribute the natural light throughout the day and would light the ambiance of the living space.
Advantages of Raised Ranch House
It's essential to understand the good qualities a raised ranch house sets you up with, laying down unique architectural design and practical preference as per your taste.
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Here, the additional living space attached to a finished basement serves in various ways, from a family room to an office room or an extra bedroom, enlarging the home's utility and flexibility.
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There is a great deal of superlative degree of privacy due to the separation between the living spaces and bedrooms, making the home ideal for several families with different schedules.
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It also promotes a better view and an influx of natural light.
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The existence of walkout basements extends straightforward entry to the backyard, making outdoor activities and gatherings easier without interrupting the home's flow.
Challenges of Raised Ranch House
While a raised ranch offers numerous advantages, it also comes with some common challenges, especially in terms of exterior space.
Exterior Design Limitations
The stand-out challenge that owners have to face is their inherent exterior appeal, mostly influenced by a body shape and minimal architectural features. This lack of curb appeal can impact the home's overall aesthetic, turning it less appealing compared to other styles.
Some Renovations to Fit in
You can make these changes for your raised ranch house as well. A few examples of houses have been provided for clear understanding.
Modern Farmhouse Raised House
Replace the windows for unique style frames and improve the wooden panelling for the siding. It can also add a cedar knee brace in front of the main door. And it would be viewed architecturally if flights of stairs were widened on the front and some natural stones and bluestone treads were.
Raised Ranch Deck

These are smaller than average homes. It has some interior living space, but if you want a room, enlarge the size of the outside living space with a large porch.
Interior Ideas for Raised Ranch Renovations
An ideal method to make the house appear large is to raise the ceilings, add wood paneling then give it a fresh coat of white paint. Eliminate the walls for open floor plans to modernize the interiors of the home in an efficient and functional way. Modern owners expect large closets so install one in yours. The realistic and basic idea can morph the entire look and bring out a seamless view. So, paint the walls with neutral or light colors.
Cottage Raised Ranch House
An old days ranch like bi-level from the 70s can be turned into a cottage-style home. The old siding could be replaced with a board, batten siding on the top floor and horizontal sliding on the lower living space and attached garage. You can also fix window boxes, giving the home some depth with a front door in a grey-blue, creating the attention space.
Traditional Raised Ranch House
It mostly comes with ample space, like a one-half-acre lot. The grooming of shrubs is required; otherwise, they can tower above the windows on the first floor to prevent the sunlight from penetrating inside the house.
Resale Value
Resale value is influenced by architectural layout as well as current conditions within the housing market. Thus, it is necessary to consider various key aspects that impact the value and desirability of the houses.
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Location and Native Market Tends - The resale value of raised ranch homes varies as per the geographical location and its current market demands. So, areas with demand for such properties may have better resale values.
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Condition of the Property - Buyers look for houses that need little renovations so an updated raised ranch home with upgraded interiors demands a higher price in the market.
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Neighbour Desirability - A raised ranch house in sought-after areas tends to have better resale options, as an attractive neighborhood plays a major role in deciding marketability.
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Stand-Out Architectural Features - The layout features, like open floor plans, split-level design, and modern optimization of windows, can attract or resist potential buyers. Make sure to contact a real estate agent to get an insight into how these features are viewed in the eyes of the current market.
Final Words
There is no end to designs and features. Explore and select according to your taste and market preference. The benefits, like the distinct separation between functional areas and increased living space, are some of the advantages with challenges like accessibility issues and construction costs. However, keep in mind that the raised ranch requires some updates and timeless renovations, which can enhance its outlook for those living there currently as well as for potential buyers.