The raised ranch is one of the most practical and enduring home styles in American architecture. In this video, we’ll take a complete tour and discuss where the design came from, why it became popular, and how its bilevel layout creates efficient, flexible living space.
Eric Andersen, B.A., M.Div.
Owner/Designated Managing Broker, Andersen Realty Group
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Transcript:
The raised ranch is one of the most recognizable home styles in American architecture. I’m Eric with Andersen Realty Group, and you will find many raised ranches in the western suburbs of Chicago. In this video, we’re touring a rendering of a raised ranch in Naperville. This style of home became popular in the post-war decades of the 60s and 70s as suburban communities expanded and builders were looking for a budget-friendly, but practical design. The raised ranch was their answer.
The split entry is a hallmark of the raised ranch. Upon entering, you have the choice to go up or go down. The home is laid out like a one-story ranch, except it’s been lifted. That’s why they have a staircase leading to the front door, and then you can go up or down. The raised ranch is a bi-level home. You have one living space upstairs, and another one downstairs. By partially submerging the lower level and lifting the main level just above grade, builders could create nearly twice the space with a modest footprint.
The upper level of raised ranches offers an open and efficient living space. They normally have large windows and ample natural light, and you can expect to find a living room, dining room, and kitchen just up the stairs, with the bedrooms and bathroom (or bathrooms if one of the bedrooms is ensuite) just down the hall.
The lower level provides a second living space and often includes a family room, bathroom, laundry room, mechanicals, and garage access. While the lower level of a raised ranch is similar to a basement, the windows are at ground level, so you get natural light, and depending on the pitch of the land, they sometimes offer direct access to the backyard.
As you walk through, you can see how the raised ranch offers efficient construction paired with generous interior space, a compact footprint paired with expansive functionality, and a classic structure that adapts to modern needs. Its design is humble, but it has endured because it offers comfort, value, and flexibility for a wide range of lifestyles. If you’re looking to buy or sell a raised ranch or another style of home in the western suburbs of Chicago, reach out using my contact information, below. I’m Eric with Andersen Realty Group, a family-owned brokerage where we treat our clients like family.