A raised ranch is a two-level house style that can be found in both urban and rural areas. It is so named because the main living area is usually higher than the ground level. Many raised ranches feature a split-level design, meaning that the main level of the house is split into two sections.
The main level is elevated a few steps from the grade level, which can also have an additional level containing a finished basement, recreation area, and/or garage. The main living area usually includes the kitchen, dining, and living room, with bedrooms for the primary residents on the upper level.
The distinct feature of a raised ranch is the combination of the main level’s two floors. Raised ranches, or “split-level” houses, are typically constructed using wood framing and asphalt, vinyl, or metal siding, but often feature stone exteriors.
They are frequently found with a combination of gable, hip, and/or gambrel roofs, and often include inviting front porches and patios. Raised ranches became a popular style of housing following World War II.
Not only were they bit more economical to construct due to their simple frames, but they also allowed developers to accommodate the growing needs of growing families.
What is a split ranch?
A split ranch is a popular style of ranch home that features two distinct sides. Usually, one side contains the living room, kitchen, and formal dining area, while the other side contains the bedrooms, closets, and bathrooms.
Other features like a garage, laundry room, and basements may be included, depending on the design. Split ranch homes, like regular ranch homes, tend to feature open floor plans, making them a great choice for those who love to entertain and spend time in the same space.
Architecturally, split ranch homes are often distinguished by the roofline and foundation style, which often includes a central gable separating the two sides. This style of ranch home can provide a unique look, especially when one side is extended further than the other.
What is the difference between ranch and raised ranch?
The primary difference between a ranch and a raised ranch is that a raised ranch is a two-story home with the living areas on the second floor and the bedrooms on the main floor. On the first floor of a raised ranch, you’ll typically find a foyer that leads to the stairs and an attached garage, while a traditional ranch is a one-story home.
As a result, a raised ranch typically offers a greater sense of privacy as well as more living space.
Raised ranches also typically feature a split-level design, with a slightly elevated main living area in comparison to the bedrooms below. The upper level may feature a balcony, and may also provide easier access to a backyard or terrace.
In contrast, traditional ranches have a much simpler design than raised ranches, with all rooms located on a single level. As a result, a traditional ranch doesn’t provide any elevation, and the living and sleeping spaces may be placed closer together.
Both ranchers are known for having a simple, boxy design, with few decorative features on the exterior. However, a raised ranch offers certain features that are not found in a traditional ranch home.
Because of this, raised ranches generally have a more expensive price tag as compared to a traditional ranch, making it a more luxurious choice for many homeowners.
What style of house is a split entry?
A split entry house is a style of home that features two completely separate entrances typically located on a ground floor and the entrance on the upper floor. Split entry homes are also referred to as bi-level homes and typically have bedrooms and bathrooms located on the lower level while the living space and kitchen occupy the upper level.
This style of house offers convenience and privacy to owners with two distinct living areas, and it’s also a great layout for entertaining. Split entry homes are especially popular in colder climates because the lower level of the house can double as a cozy entertaining area since it typically does not require as much heating or cooling as the upper levels.
Furthermore, these homes feature a practical design that many people appreciate since the upper and lower levels are connected by a staircase.
What are the disadvantages of split level houses?
Split level homes may not be the best choice for everyone, as there are some potential disadvantages to consider.
The most common complaint about split level homes is the decreased level of privacy. Since there are multiple levels, the walls and space between each may be thinner than those in a traditional single story home, creating a lack of privacy that may not be ideal for some.
Additionally, since split level homes tend to be larger than other homes, they often require more energy to heat and cool. This is due to the fact that they have extra walls and more space between them.
The close proximity of the levels can also cause problems with sound traveling between the levels. For example, a noisy party on the lower level may easily be heard on the upper level, whether it be people talking, music playing, or other noises.
Lastly, since split level homes often have staircases leading between the levels, this can create inconvenient for younger children and elderly people.
Overall, split level homes may not be the best option for those looking for maximum privacy, energy efficiency, and ease of accessibility.
What is difference between split entry and split foyer?
Split entry and split foyer homes are similar in many ways, but there are some distinctive differences between the two house styles. The main difference is that a split entry home has an entrance that is located at the mid-level of the home, which accesses both the lower and upper levels, while a split foyer home has an entrance that is located at the lower level and leads to only the upper level.
Split entry homes usually have three levels, with a front entry, a stairwell in the middle, and a finished basement on the lower level. On the main level, the homes typically feature a living room, kitchen and dining room, as well as a bedroom.
On the upper level, there are usually two to four bedrooms, while the basement level is typically used as living space or storage.
Split foyer homes, on the other hand, are laid out in a bit of a different way. Instead of having a side-entry that leads up and downstairs, split foyers typically have an entryway on the lower level, which leads up to the main level.
This main level is a large, open floor plan that includes the living space (living room, kitchen, and dining room) along with a couple of bedrooms. On the upper level, there are usually two to four additional bedrooms.
While both split entry and split foyer homes offer plenty of living space, there are still distinct differences between the two house styles. Split entry homes typically have a lower entry point with access to both floors, whereas split foyer homes have their entrance at the lower level and access to the upper floor only.
Additionally, the layouts of the two house styles are slightly different, with the split entry featuring three distinct levels (entry, main, and basement) and the split foyer featuring two levels (lower entry and upper main/bedrooms).
Does a split foyer have a basement?
Yes, a split foyer typically has a basement, although the size of the basement can vary between homes. The split foyer design is typically a bi-level home, with the entrance on the ground level and the main living area one step up.
The basement typically remains on ground level and can be accessed through an internal stairway located in the foyer or another location in the home. The size and space of the basement also varies depending on the home design, but usually includes a laundry room, utility room, storage space, and possibly a recreation area or additional living space such as a family room.
Generally the basement does not contain any bedrooms, although space may be available for the addition of a bedroom if desired.
How do you update a split foyer house?
Updating a split foyer house can be a great way to give it a modern look and increase its resale value. Here are some tips for updating your split foyer:
1. Freshen up with New Paint – A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your split foyer. Choose a neutral color or go bold with an exciting paint color; just be sure the colors complement each other.
2. Replace the Flooring – Outdated flooring can be a major eyesore when it comes to updating a split foyer house. Replace the flooring in the entryway and the living room with new, neutral colored tile or laminate.
3. Upgrade the Kitchen – The kitchen is one of the most important rooms to update in a split foyer. Replace the countertops, cabinets, and appliances with modern options. Consider installing a marble or stainless steel backsplash as well.
4. Add Lighting – Add recessed lighting or hanging lights to give the space a modern feel.
5. Upgrade Windows and Doors – Replacing outdated windows and doors can make a big difference in the look and feel of your split foyer. Choose windows with modern features, such as energy-efficient glass and stylish hardware.
6. Upgrade Bathrooms – Outdated bathroom fixtures can quickly make a space appear dated. Upgrade the bathroom fixtures like the vanity and view mirror, as well as the toilet and shower.
With some planning and effort, updating your split foyer can take it from outdated to modern and stylish in no time. With the right updates, you’ll be adding value to your home as well.
Are split foyer homes hard to sell?
Split foyer homes can have mixed results when it comes to selling them. They offer a unique, split-level design that is larger than a traditional ranch style home, which can be appealing to some buyers who are looking for more space.
On the other hand, since many of these homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s, they may require more upkeep or renovations than other homes on the market, making them less desirable to buyers who are not interested in putting a lot of work into a property.
That said, a split foyer home can still be sold successfully, especially in certain markets. It is important to consider the current market conditions and trends, as well as the outlook for the future.
It is also important to consider the condition of the home and make any necessary updates or repairs to make it more attractive to potential buyers. Professional staging and photography can also help to showcase the unique features of the home and make it more attractive to buyers.
Finally, pricing the home appropriately and working with a professional real estate agent can help to ensure a successful sale.
Is a split-level home considered two stories?
A split-level home is not typically considered two stories because most split-level homes are comprised of three levels – a top level, a mid-level, and a bottom level, each one stepping down from the one before.
While there may be a staircase leading up to the top level and another leading down to the bottom level, typically the two stories would be the top level and the bottom level only, with the mid-level being more of a landing than a level all its own.
The benefit of split-level homes is that the unique configuration can provide an attractive and comfortable look and feel, while also utilizing more vertical space than a single-story house would.
Why are split-level homes so popular?
Split-level homes have become so popular for a variety of reasons. Their multi-level design provides privacy for the bedrooms, which is attractive for families who want to keep their living and sleeping spaces separate.
It’s also cost effective when compared to a two-story home, as split-level homes are typically more affordable to build and also require less roofing material and labor. Additionally, they offer a unique floor plan that has room for many desirable features, such as an open kitchen and a family room in the lower level.
They also provide more space compared to a single-story home, and because they are often built with a central stairway, they can appear bright and airy with plenty of natural light.
Can you change a split-level house?
Yes, it is possible to make changes to a split-level house, depending on the area and the individual attributes of the property. Many split-level houses are built in a modular design that makes it easier to make architectural changes or rearrange the interior.
For example, some homeowners may decide to open up an interior wall to create an open floor plan on one level. Other homeowners may decide to reconfigure the steps to make it easier to move between floors.
The possibilities are endless and will depend on the floor plan and how complex the remodeling job might be. Some homeowners may choose to work with an architectural designer to help create their desired changes.
Additionally, depending on the home and location, some modifications may require a permit from the local government. It’s important to consider all options and research potential construction or remodeling costs before making any changes to a split-level house.
Is the lower level of a split-level considered a basement?
No, the lower level of a split-level is not usually considered a basement. A split-level home typically consists of two or more levels that are separated by a few steps instead of a full flight of stairs.
The main difference between the two is that a split level has an intermediate floor at a mid-level between the lower and upper levels, while a basement is an underground level of the house. Therefore, the lower level of a split-level is usually not considered a basement.
What counts as a story in a house?
A story in a house is usually referenced to a floor of a home. A single story house is one story tall, meaning the main living area, bedrooms, and other rooms are on the same level. A two-story house is two stories tall and has two separate levels, usually with a stairwell leading to the upper level.
A three-story house is three stories tall, with the same principle being applied to any additional stories. Stories in a house are usually divided by the space between the main floor and the ceiling, the upper floor and the roof, and the level of any basement or other area that is lower than the main level.
Depending on the height of each level, stories may also be divided by separate externally accessible stairs.
What style is a tri level home?
A tri level home is a type of house design that has three floors, each set at a different height. The main level typically houses the common areas, such as the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The topmost level generally includes bedrooms, bathrooms, and other private spaces such as a home office or media room.
The third level is often used for storage or other less frequently used areas. This type of design makes efficient use of space on difficult terrain, as it takes advantage of elevation changes to readily stand on slopes or awkward lots.
This style of home is also sometimes referred to as split-level or split-foyer homes. The distinctive features of these homes usually give them a more modern look, as they often feature little to no true exterior wall space and an abundance of valanced windows.
Are split levels making a comeback?
Yes, split levels are making a comeback! Split-level homes, which feature a midlevel between the basement and main floor, first emerged in the 1950s. At that time, they were a cost-effective alteration to the traditional colonial style houses that were popular at that time.
In recent years, split-level homes have become increasingly popular again, as they offer homeowners several advantages. For example, they are more affordable than two-story or three-story homes and can fit into smaller lots with ease.
In addition, they offer flexible layout options, making it easier to create areas that are tailored to your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Split-level homes also have an attractive look with their combination of outdoor and indoor living spaces.
They can even add a modern touch to a traditional home if certain elements such as large picture windows or sliding French doors are added. Many people also enjoy the extra overhead space for tall furniture and artwork, as well as the ability to easily transition from one area to the next.
All in all, split-level homes can provide homeowners with functional and attractive living spaces—and that’s why they’re making a comeback!.
