Tired of living in a dated ranch without the space to move around? Ranch homes may have been a trend in the 1950s, but they don’t always fit the needs of modern living.
Those small rooms, horizontal designs, and low ceilings often make ranch homes feel cramped and impractical. So, this may be a good time for a ranch home renovation.
Read on to find smart renovation ideas to convert your current space into a spacious and stylish home. If you’re someone searching “ranch homes for sale near me”, these tips can also come in handy for your future home.
12 Savvy Ranch Home Renovation Ideas
1. Add Vertical or Horizontal Elements
Ranch homes generally have a low, single-story horizontal profile. This can make the space feel smaller than it is. You can add vertical or horizontal elements to elevate the visual appeal. Apart from adding space to your property, these elements can also bring in some functionality.
Vertical Elements:
- Add floor-to-ceiling bookshelves or storage units.
- Use tall plants or trees to add aesthetic appeal.
- Incorporate vertical siding or paneling for a modern look.
Horizontal Elements:
- Extend your home outward for a sunroom or a larger kitchen.
- Add an attached garage to increase functionality.
- Use wide horizontal siding planks with vinyl or fiber cement; they offer durability and are low-maintenance.
Tip: Use accent walls with vertical shiplap or paneling. These will draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of height.
2. Upgrade Your Entrance
Consider upgrading your entrance during your ranch home renovation. This way, you can create a warm, welcoming, yet sleek first impression.
- Use a statement door with a bold color like red or yellow to grab attention.
- Extend the entryway to add a small foyer for a neat transition space.
- Add decorative shutters in contrasting colors to add depth and personality to your ranch.
Tip: Go for an Energy Star-rated front door to reduce heating costs. You can save on your energy bills since these doors reduce consumption by at least 5%.
3. Add a Porch or Patio
Ranch home renovations now increasingly feature porches and patios. Over 80% of homebuyers are seeking outdoor spaces.
- A front porch creates a social space and increases curb appeal.
- A back patio expands your living area for outdoor dining.
- A wraparound porch is most suitable for large properties, and creates multiple relaxation zones.
Tip: Opt for composite decking or stamped concrete. It requires low maintenance and promises durability.
4. Improve Outdoor Living Areas
With simple improvements in your outdoor living area, you can make your home feel larger. Given that ranch homes generally possess large yards, this is a cost-effective strategy that doesn’t require major construction.
- Install a pergola or trellis for shade and visual appeal.
- Add an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, or water feature for a focal point.
- Choose weather-resistant materials like teak or aluminum for furniture.
Tip: Blend outdoor spaces with the natural landscape. This can include using indigenous plants and organic materials for decking or patio furniture.
5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Features
Even as you update your ranch’s space and style, make sure you switch to energy-efficient options. This will make your ranch home renovation more profitable, while improving comfort. Here are a few switches to consider:
- Insulated doors and windows with double-pane glasses.
- Recycled siding or eco-friendly insulation like cellulose or spray foam.
- Energy-efficient appliances like smart thermostats and advanced power strips.
- Solar panels and solar hot water collectors.
Tip: There are local incentives for solar panel installations in states like New York and Florida. Do a little research beforehand to know if you can reduce your renovation costs or get tax credits.
6. Open Up the Floor Plan
Compartmentalized rooms are common in ranch homes. However, an open-concept layout can make the space feel more spacious and appealing.
- Remove non-load-bearing walls to make the space seem large.
- Use beams for support while preserving an airy feel.
- Choose consistent flooring for a seamless look.
Tip: Pocket doors are a stylish and space-saving alternative to maintaining privacy.
7. Elevate Ceiling Height
Want to make your ranch home feel less small? Create an illusion of height by renovating the ceiling.
- Install vaulted ceilings for added depth and character.
- Add exposed beams in wood or contrasting colors for a dimensional effect.
- Use recessed lighting to eliminate bulky fixtures and draw the eye upward.
Tip: Tray ceilings are a cost-effective way to add dimension without major structural changes.
8. Add Strategic Storage Solutions
Smart storage spaces are a great way to declutter your living space and improve the functionality of your home.
Kitchen Storage:
- Install wall-mounted shelves or cabinets.
- Use toe-kick drawers under kitchen cabinets.
- Incorporate a hidden rolling pantry between appliances.
Bathroom Storage:
- Add floating shelves or cabinets.
- Use over-the-toilet storage units.
- Incorporate a recessed medicine cabinet.
Tip: You can build custom closets, under-stairs storage, or include Murphy beds to maximize space.
9. Maximize Natural Light
If you want to level-up the style and feel of your ranch home, don’t compromise on light. A bright home always feels more inviting and spacious.
- Swap small windows with larger, energy-efficient options.
- Install skylights or solar tubes to brighten windowless areas.
- Use light-colored paint and mirrors to reflect and distribute light effectively.
Tip: Place solar tubes that can bring natural light into windowless areas like hallways or bathrooms.
10. Modernize Key Spaces
Want to increase the ROI of your ranch home after renovation? Start with modernizing your kitchen and bathrooms.
A modern kitchen renovation can recoup up to 80% of its cost at resale. Meanwhile, bathroom renovations can recover up to 60% of their cost at resale.
Modern Kitchen Ideas:
- Replace outdated cabinets with sleek, shaker-style designs.
- Upgrade countertops to materials like granite or quartz.
- Add a kitchen island for extra workspace and storage.
Bathroom Upgrade Ideas:
- Install walk-in showers or soaking tubs for a luxurious feel.
- Use floating vanities to create a sense of space.
- Upgrade to modern faucets and fixtures.
- Use large format tiles.
Tip: Install a whole-house water softening system. This will protect your plumbing fixtures and appliances from mineral buildup, extending their lifespan.
11. Go for a Cohesive Color Scheme
Color influences how spacious and cohesive a home feels. Soft neutrals create a sense of openness, while accent colors introduce character.
- Exterior: Stick to classic neutrals like beige or gray with a bold front door.
- Interior: Light, airy tones can enhance brightness and create an expansive feel.
Tip: Pick a monochromatic scheme with varying shades. This will add depth and elegance without overwhelming the space.
12. Set Up a Home Office
With remote work on the rise, having a dedicated workspace adds value. You can also use this as a convertible, multi-purpose space.
- Convert an underutilized space into an office.
- Install built-in desks and shelving for efficiency.
- Soundproof the space for a quiet, private work environment.
Tip: A Murphy desk or foldable workstation is perfect for smaller homes. Moreover, it’ll save space when not in use.
Is Ranch Home Renovation a Smart Investment in 2025?
Absolutely! When done right, ranch home renovations can take your property up a notch. It’s also a smart investment when you take into account curb appeal and interior functionality.
You can find suitable renovation-worthy ranch homes on real estate platforms like Houzeo. Incorporate these tips to create a stylish, sustainable space that will eventually translate to a high ROI.
