The problem with raised ranches is that they look dated. Those 1970’s-1980’s models are about as stylish as that old Flock of Seagulls haircut. The good news is there’s always a way to change the look of any house. The bad news? It’s hard on the pocketbook. The good news? It’s less expensive than buying a new/old dream home.

The house above is actually a renovated raised ranch. I’m no architect, but this completely modern look probably means lifting the roof. Forget the deck thang because it’s not compatible with most split levels. Just picture the upper story with all windows.

Instead of going with contemporary, how about stepping back in time? This raised ranch was built in the 1950’s but that doesn’t mean your 1980’s home can’t rock the mid-century look.

Howdy! How about “barn style”? Paint it red, slap a front deck on it and yee-haw, you’ve got yourself a rustic abode in the burbs.

No, this isn’t a raised ranch but it’s the closest image I could find to a stucco home. Stucco comes in any color, so you can have a pretty pink stucco ranch if your heart so desires.

Fine Homebuilding did an article on how to get rid of that raised ranch overhang. Think about it, without that, the house could take on any look you want. With some recycled brick, it can look like the house below.

I didn’t find any Victorian splanch photos, but with some wood siding, a porch and detailed trim, you got yourself a Painted Lady Victorian!

Click on the images to get more info on each house.

Updating Raised Ranches. Part I