29 Stunning 1960s Ranch House Exterior Remodels That Will Inspire You!

29 Stunning 1960s Ranch House Exterior Remodels That Will Inspire You!

The 1960s ranch house style is a classic example of mid-century modern architecture. These homes, originally designed for simplicity, functionality, and open living spaces, have become highly sought after in recent years, with many homeowners opting to remodel and refresh their exteriors. Whether you want to preserve the iconic ranch style or add a modern twist, these 29 stunning 1960s ranch house exterior remodels will inspire your next renovation project.

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1. Modern Farmhouse Charm

One of the most popular trends for remodeling a 1960s ranch house is the modern farmhouse style. By combining rustic materials like shiplap siding, barn doors, and exposed wooden beams with sleek, modern features, homeowners can transform their ranch house into a charming, cozy retreat. A whitewashed exterior paired with a large wooden front porch gives the home an inviting, timeless look.

2. Mid-Century Modern Minimalism

Many 1960s ranch houses were built with mid-century modern influences that still resonate today. By embracing the minimalist style, homeowners can upgrade their exterior with clean lines, flat roofs, and large windows. Adding black or dark metal accents to the front door or garage door enhances the contemporary feel while still retaining that mid-century appeal.

3. Rustic and Natural Materials

For a more earthy and organic aesthetic, consider remodeling your ranch house exterior with natural materials like stone, wood, and metal. A stone veneer along the lower portion of the home can add texture and visual interest, while wooden siding or cedar shakes offer a rustic, natural vibe. Incorporating a wooden front door with a black steel handle brings balance between the natural materials and modern elements.

4. Open Concept with Large Windows

If you want to make the most of natural light and outdoor views, replace smaller windows with large picture windows or floor-to-ceiling glass walls. These upgrades create an open-concept feel from the outside and bring the outdoors in. Adding sliding glass doors leading to a spacious deck can further enhance the open and airy design.

5. Bold Color Schemes

While the original 1960s ranch houses often had muted or neutral color schemes, many modern remodels opt for bold color schemes. Bright shades of navy blue, charcoal gray, or emerald green for the exterior paint can make a dramatic statement. Pairing these bold colors with contrasting white trim and wood accents can create a striking and contemporary look that still honors the original structure.

6. Mid-Century Modern Rooflines

The roofline is an important feature of many 1960s ranch houses. By keeping the low-pitched roof but upgrading it with metal roofing or standing seam metal panels, you can achieve a sleek and modern appearance. Adding wide overhangs and clean, sharp edges enhances the mid-century modern style and makes the home stand out.

7. Contemporary Front Doors

Replacing a traditional ranch house front door with a contemporary front door can dramatically change the overall exterior look. Consider a custom-made front door with glass panels, bold colors, or modern hardware for a sleek, sophisticated entrance. Black or dark wood doors with minimalist handles can add a striking contrast to the exterior, especially when paired with lighter-colored walls.

8. Large Front Porches

Many 1960s ranch houses were built with simple, small porches. A modern remodel can include a larger, more inviting front porch that extends across the entire front of the house. Using wooden decking, comfortable seating, and potted plants creates a welcoming space for guests and adds curb appeal. Consider adding recessed lighting or pendant lights for a warm, inviting glow.

9. Sleek Landscaping Design

A sleek landscaping design can complement the modern exterior of your 1960s ranch house. Choose symmetrical plantings, minimalist garden beds, and low-maintenance greenery like succulents, ornamental grasses, or native plants. Concrete pathways, gravel driveways, and modern outdoor lighting can enhance the clean, streamlined appearance.

10. Breezeway Additions

Adding a breezeway between the main house and the garage or other outbuildings is a popular way to update a 1960s ranch house. This enclosed or semi-enclosed walkway can feature large windows, sliding doors, or even wooden trellises covered in climbing plants. It creates an extra layer of visual interest while connecting various parts of the property.

11. Expanded Garages

One of the most practical remodels for a ranch house exterior is expanding the garage. If your home originally had a small one-car garage, consider converting it into a two-car garage or adding a larger garage to the side of the house. Choosing modern garage doors in steel or wood with clean lines and minimal hardware can make the space both functional and stylish.

12. Scandinavian Influence

For those who love minimalist design, a Scandinavian-inspired exterior remodel can bring light, airy, and functional features to a 1960s ranch house. Opt for white or light gray siding, clean wooden details, and large windows for an open, fresh look. A simple, low-maintenance metal roof or cedar shingle accents can add warmth and texture without overwhelming the overall design.

13. Use of Glass and Metal

Incorporating glass and metal elements can add a sleek, industrial touch to your 1960s ranch house. Large glass windows paired with metal framing or steel supports for the front porch or entryway can give your home a contemporary, urban feel. The clean, modern lines of these materials provide contrast to the traditional ranch style and make the home feel more open and bright.

14. Wood and Concrete Mix

Combining wood and concrete in the exterior remodel adds an element of natural texture and a touch of modern sophistication. Concrete driveways or porches paired with wooden accents or wooden siding create a harmonious blend of earthy materials. This combination can be used in a variety of ways, from concrete retaining walls to wooden shutters or a cedar accent wall.

15. Expansive Backyards with Outdoor Living Areas

Transforming your backyard into a functional outdoor living area is another great way to remodel a 1960s ranch house. Consider adding a large wooden deck or concrete patio with comfortable seating areas, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit. These features not only enhance the livability of the home but also improve the overall curb appeal.

16. Mid-Century Modern Lighting

Adding mid-century modern lighting fixtures to the exterior can give your 1960s ranch house a bold and stylish touch. Consider sleek, geometric pendant lights or sconces for the porch or entryway. String lights or lantern-style lights along the driveway or garden can add an element of warmth and charm to the property at night.

17. Tropical Vibes with Lush Landscaping

A 1960s ranch house remodel can take on a tropical vibe by incorporating lush, vibrant landscaping elements. Tall palm trees, tropical flowers, and large-leafed plants such as banana palms and bird of paradise add color and texture. Incorporating a small water feature or a reflecting pool enhances the tropical feel and creates a serene environment.

18. Concrete and Steel Elements

To give your ranch house a contemporary industrial feel, incorporate concrete and steel elements into the exterior. A steel front door, concrete pavers for the driveway, or steel railings along the front porch or deck can introduce a modern, urban edge. Combining these materials with more traditional ranch features, like wood siding, creates a bold contrast that is both functional and striking.

19. Transitional Design Elements

Many homeowners are blending traditional ranch elements with modern updates, creating a transitional style that’s both comfortable and stylish. For example, using traditional brick or stone with contemporary black-framed windows or large glass doors can result in a look that feels timeless yet fresh. Incorporating both old and new elements allows for a more personalized and nuanced design.

20. Vertical Garden Features

To add both greenery and visual interest to the exterior, consider incorporating vertical garden features into your 1960s ranch house remodel. Living green walls, or vertical planters, are a great way to create a striking focal point. These can be placed along the sides of the house or used to add texture and color to the exterior walls.

21. Textural Cladding

Incorporating different textures into the cladding can add depth and richness to the exterior. Textured siding like shiplap, board and batten, or stucco can give the home a more contemporary feel, while still maintaining the ranch’s connection to natural materials. Combining multiple textures, such as stone and wood, also adds visual interest to the home.

22. Futuristic, Geometric Accents

For homeowners wanting to push the boundaries of design, futuristic, geometric accents are an exciting way to modernize a 1960s ranch house. Add geometric panels to the façade or incorporate angular shapes in the windows or entrance. These sharp, clean lines will create a bold and dynamic look.

23. Copper and Bronze Details

Incorporating copper or bronze accents, such as rain chains, lighting fixtures, or roof flashing, adds warmth and sophistication to the ranch house exterior. Over time, these metals will patina, giving the house a unique, aged look that complements the natural surroundings.

24. Classic White with Black Accents

A timeless design trend for ranch homes is the classic white exterior with black accents. Painting the main body of the house white while opting for black window frames, a black front door, and black shutters creates a striking contrast that feels both classic and modern.

25. Zen Garden Elements

Transform your ranch house exterior into a tranquil space by adding Zen garden elements. Incorporating rock gardens, bamboo fencing, or water features like a small koi pond can create a calming, peaceful atmosphere. These features complement a minimalist design and enhance the overall aesthetic.

26. Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Incorporating energy-efficient upgrades such as solar panels, insulated windows, and low-E glass is not only a smart way to reduce utility costs but also modernize the appearance of the 1960s ranch house. These eco-friendly upgrades can make a significant impact on both the functionality and style of the home.

27. Expansive Glass Garage Doors

To create a modern, sleek look, consider replacing the traditional garage door with an expansive glass garage door. This feature brings natural light into the garage, making it feel like an extension of the home. Pair the glass door with sleek, minimalist landscaping for a modern, cohesive look.

28. Stone Pathways

A stone pathway leading up to the front door adds elegance and a welcoming feel to the exterior of a 1960s ranch house. Opt for natural flagstone or river rock for a rustic, organic appearance. The pathway can wind through lush gardens, creating a beautiful and inviting entryway.

29. Green Roof Design

For those looking to fully embrace sustainable living, a green roof design can add a layer of innovation to the remodel. This eco-friendly option involves covering the roof with grass or other plants to help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption. A living roof not only enhances the house’s environmental credentials but also adds a distinctive and natural aesthetic.

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These 29 stunning exterior remodel ideas for 1960s ranch houses offer a variety of styles and design approaches, from modern minimalist updates to more rustic and organic enhancements. No matter your style preference, these remodel ideas can help breathe new life into your home, making it both beautiful and functional. Whether you want to preserve the mid-century charm or completely reimagine your ranch house, these ideas will inspire your next renovation project.