50s Ranch Re-Imagined

This 1950s brick ranch needed a lot of love. Our clients really liked the existing large front picture window, the lot, and the neighborhood. They purchased the house, appreciating the location adjacent to Arapahoe Acres, the nationally-recognized Denver neighborhood with significant mid-century modern homes.The house was in rough shape with dated finishes, smoke-stained walls, carpet covering wood flooring, popcorn ceilings, a failing roof, and old aluminum windows. Needless to say, the house was ready for an update.

It also wasn't quite large enough for this growing family. They needed two in-home offices, with one doubling as an acoustically separated music room. They also wanted a primary suite addition, a new kitchen and bathrooms, a laundry/mudroom, and a patio for entertaining. Maximizing storage for this single-story ranch was also really important as the house has no basement.

With the additional goal of wanting the home to fit into the neighborhood of primarily single-level homes, plus the adjacent mid-century influence, we explored various new roof configurations. Ultimately, we landed on a low-pitched gable roof facing the street. This design allowed for straightforward roof framing and higher ceilings creating a solid mid-century vibe.

The design objective was to reuse as much of the home as possible, create a functional layout, and use neutral and natural palettes and finishes.

The wood screen at the front adds the final touch — a mid-century modern-inspired element that provides privacy and allows daylight to filter through to the living space.

Energy Features: Low-E Weathershield windows and doors, AeroBarrier, ZIP System for walls, Energy Star appliances, HRV for fresh air (indoor air quality), water-saving fixtures and toilets, re-used foundation and structure, super-insulated, smart thermostat, low VOC paints

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