Ranch is a style of residential architecture associated with rural U.S. life. Ranch style houses first began in the American Southwest before spreading across the West, North, Northwest, Midwest and Southwest.

Traditional ranch style homes have a very distinct layout and aesthetic that mark them with romanticised country charm. The typical ranch house has an open concept plan, large patio space, large windows, and low-pitch rooflines. The most well known feature of a ranch house is its single-storey profile; ranch style houses are built close to the ground and emphasise length over width or height.

Most ranch houses are rectangular, though they are also often found in U or L shapes. There are many distinct styles of ranch homes including the California ranch, suburban ranch and split-level ranch. Ranch houses are typically made from natural materials with rough finishes such as timber, brick or stucco. Weatherboard homes are also very common. Ranch houses often have attached garages.

Ranch houses around the world

Ranch houses began to take shape in the American design consciousness in the early 1960s – particularly in the Sun Belt region. This is where ranch design turned a corner that distinguished itself from typical American houses. Ranch houses in the early 60s began to incorporate dramatism and flair into their design, with varying roof lines, sunken living rooms, exterior landscaping, diamond shaped windows and cathedral ceilings becoming a staple of ranch style.

America remains the main hub of ranch-style homes to this day. In fact, ranch houses are the number one most popular home style in 34 states – including Texas, Virginia, New York and Georgia. However, the reach of ranch homes is not limited to the United States alone. Many architects across Australia have embraced the country style in a celebration of simplicity and openness.

Australian ranch style house plans

Ranch style homes are one of the most popular housing styles in Australian Suburbia – specifically, Adelaide and Melbourne. American ranch-inspired homes are also well loved in the regional and coastal suburbs of NSW and Victoria.

Of course, these houses often come with an Aussie twist – rather than adopting everything about the American style, Australian ranch houses tend to have seamless indoor and outdoor spaces, more contemporary materials, large sliding glass doors and windows, and corrugated iron features.

Challenges for ranch style homes Australia

Now, ranch style homes are not perfect. As with all architectural styles, there are a few drawbacks to consider when building. The one-storey layout will not work for all families; it means privacy and separation is more difficult to achieve. This closeness also means that guests are more likely to wander into private spaces rather than staying in communal areas.

Ranch houses are also less efficient when it comes to space – a two storey house provides double the square footage without taking up any more land. Large ranch houses will have to sacrifice backyard and land space in order to have larger floor plans.

Another disadvantage to ranch style houses is the cost. They require more roof and stronger foundations than the average home, meaning that they usually cost around 10% more per build for extra material and more experienced builders. Monthly costs are more expensive as well, because ranch style houses are harder to heat and cool due to the open plan style.

The most impressive farm houses in the world: 5 of the best examples of ranch style home designs

5. Warramba Ranch House – Blue Mountains, Australia

This gorgeous sandstone cottage is nestled in the heart of Capertee Valley, NSW – the widest canyon in the world. Settled in against hardy native plants, this home is invisible from the road.

The Bartholomews renovated the interior upon purchase, transforming the home into a more traditional open concept floor ranch house floor plan, but the exterior remains virtually untouched. The 103 acre property is a haven of rural Australian living, and has to be one of the most iconic ranch-style homes in the country.

4. Blanket Bay Luxury Lodge – Queenstown, New Zealand

The Blanket Bay Lodge is one of the most luxurious ranch houses in the world, with sweeping high ceilings and huge glass windows offering unimpeded views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The picturesque location was also one of the filming sites for the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

This ranch style hotel was voted one of the best luxury lodges in the world. Read more (or book a stay!) here.

3. Smith Fork Ranch – Crawford, Colarado U.S.A

Smith Fork Ranch is one of America’s most iconic ranch homes. A historic building set in the Rocky Mountains, this ranch overlooks a serene river valley. The residence features historic log homes and cabins as well as the ranch itself for a total of 18 bedrooms.

The experience of booking for Smith Fork Ranch is highly customized, with a range of activities available. To name a few: the Experience Management team will open up opportunities for on-ranch activities such as gourmet dining, survival classes, mountain biking, fly fishing – or give you a taste of the local activities on offer such as white water rafting, wine tasting and exploring the Black Canyon National Park.

Read more or book a stay here.

2. Cibolo Creek Ranch – Marfa, Texas U.S.A

The 30,000 acre stone ranch resort is a luxury historical hotel located in the foothills of the Chinati Mountains. The 1800s ranch is one of the most extravagant vacation locations in America, featuring a private airport, historical art exhibition, and endless ranch-related activities to choose from.

Lean more or book your stay here at the Cibolo Creek Ranch website.

1. Four Peaks Ranch Snowmass, Colorado U.S.A

Named after the four surrounding mountains (Capitol Peak, Mount Daly, Mount Sopris and Snowmass Mountain), this private residence encompasses 876 acres of premium Colorado wilderness.

The property features private hiking, horse-riding and biking trails, ponds, a putting green, a labyrinth, spa suite, chromotherapy tub, sauna, steam room, and indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a grotto and even a waterfall. Read more about this incredible property and its $45 million dollar sale here.