Photoshop Redo: How To Rework a Ranch

Ranch-style homes are often practical, but without thoughtful design, they can sometimes appear boxy and dull from the outside. Two homeowners approached one of our design experts with a challenge—upgrade our ranch. We’ll show you how our designer used Photoshop to do just that, as well as guide you through various ways to revamp your ranch home’s exterior and create a more inviting facade.

Before the Ranch Redo

Many homeowners find themselves in a situation similar to Marco Leal and Eric Wride, who had lived in their Idaho ranch for about a year when they contacted us. “The outside of our house is just not pretty,” Leal declared, echoing a common sentiment among ranch owners. While they focused on interior upgrades, the exterior remained a blank canvas waiting for transformation. 

To help homeowners like Leal and Wride reimagine their home’s plain exterior, we sought advice from designer Richard O’Leary. He used Photoshop to illustrate his suggestions for adding curb appeal to this ranch-style house.

After the Ranch Redo

The big challenge, points out O’Leary, is the house’s shoebox-like shape. “Additions that modify its form will give it a lot more character,” he says. Front and side porches do the trick nicely, without altering the home’s brick shell. Matching gables on either side of the front door would make the entry more prominent and appealing, while also taking away the house’s flattop look. Wider front steps, a curved walkway, and low-maintenance, drought-tolerant foundation plantings extend a warmer welcome to guests.

Leal’s reaction to the redesign was enthusiastic. “I can’t believe how much better the brick looks with these changes. I wish my house looked like this right now!” This mock-up demonstrates how strategic changes can dramatically improve a ranch home’s appearance, making it more inviting and visually interesting.

Renovating Your Ranch

Even if you don’t have access to Photoshop and a design expert, you can update the look and feel of your home’s exterior with a few bold choices. Here are our recommendations for adding style to your ranch, as illustrated by this redesign.

Pick Interesting Windows

Choosing the right windows can make a significant impact on your ranch home’s exterior. Divided-light double-hung windows, as suggested in the redesign, give the house a handsome, traditional look. These windows add character and depth to the facade, breaking up the monotony of plain walls. 

When selecting windows for your ranch home, consider how they complement the overall architectural style and enhance the home’s aesthetic appeal. Energy-efficient options can also improve your home’s insulation, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs. If you want to add even more flair, stained glass or custom window designs can introduce a unique and beautiful element to your ranch’s exterior.

Camouflage Concrete

An exposed concrete foundation can detract from your home’s overall appearance. The redesign cleverly uses wooden latticework to disguise the unsightly bare foundation. This simple addition not only hides the concrete but also adds texture and visual interest to the lower portion of the house. Alternative methods to camouflage a concrete foundation include:

• Painting the concrete to match or complement the house color
• Installing decorative stone or brick veneer
• Planting shrubs or flowers to create a natural screen
• Using decorative panels or skirting designed for this purpose

Additionally, using climbing plants like ivy or jasmine can provide a natural and attractive cover for the concrete foundation, blending it seamlessly with the rest of your landscaping. If you choose plants, consult with a professional landscaper, because some plants have maintenance needs or root structures that can impact your foundation.

Choose the Right Colors

Color selection plays a vital role in updating the look of your ranch home. Here, a gray roof and white trim make the home’s light yellow brick feel more contemporary. When choosing colors for your ranch home:

• Consider the existing materials (like brick or stone) and select complementary hues.
• Use contrasting colors for trim to add definition and interest.
• Think about your neighborhood’s overall aesthetic to ensure your home fits in while still standing out.
• Test paint samples on your home’s exterior to see how they look in different lighting conditions.

The right color scheme can dramatically change your home’s appearance, making it look larger, more inviting, or more modern, depending on your choices. Additionally, incorporating accent colors on shutters, doors, and small architectural features can create a cohesive and appealing look.

Make the Entryway Entrancing

The entryway is often the focal point of a home’s exterior, and making it stand out can significantly enhance your ranch’s curb appeal. The homeowners already had a red entry door that popped against the light yellow brick and white trim, creating an eye-catching focal point. To make your entryway more entrancing:

• Choose a bold, contrasting color for your front door.
• Add symmetrical elements like planters or light fixtures on either side.
• Install a stylish, well-lit house number.
• Consider a decorative door knocker or unique hardware.
• Create a welcoming porch area with seating if space allows.

Adding seasonal decor such as wreaths, doormats, and themed porch decorations can further enhance the entryway’s charm and make it a pleasant welcoming point year-round.

Let Paint Brighten the Mood

Paint is a powerful tool in transforming your ranch home’s exterior. As shown in the redesign, red and white accents create instant cheer. A choice like Fallingwater Red from PPG Paints creates the perfect contrast to the toned-down brick and trim. When using paint to brighten your ranch home:

• Consider a two-tone or three-tone color scheme for added interest.
• Use lighter colors to make the house appear larger.
• Highlight architectural features with contrasting colors.
• Don’t forget about the garage door—it can be a large canvas for color.
• Regularly maintain painted surfaces to keep your home looking fresh and well cared for.

Additionally, using high-quality exterior paints can ensure longevity and durability, protecting your home’s exterior from the elements while maintaining vibrant colors for years to come.

Welcome Guests With a Walkway

A well-designed walkway can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and create a sense of welcome. The curved front walkway in this redesign adds charm and interest to the approach. When designing a walkway for your ranch home:

• Choose materials that complement your home’s exterior.
• Consider a curved path for visual interest.
• Use landscaping to soften the edges and guide visitors.
• Think about width—a wider path can feel more welcoming and accommodating.

Additionally, integrating decorative elements like stepping stones, embedded lighting, and variations in pathway texture can add an extra layer of interest and sophistication to your home’s entrance.

Add Finishing Touches

The addition of a porch can transform any house into a more inviting home. As the redesign shows, no-fuss materials, and fun furnishings lend charm to the new porch areas. When adding finishing touches to your ranch home’s exterior:

• Choose durable, low-maintenance materials for longevity.
• Select furniture that complements your home’s style.
• Add potted plants or hanging baskets for a touch of nature.
• Install outdoor lighting for ambiance and safety.

Adding personal touches like unique door mats, outdoor rugs, and seasonal decorations can showcase your personal taste and add to your home’s overall curb appeal.

Consider Composite Decking

For porches and decks, composite decking offers a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. Resin-based boards stand up to extreme heat and cold, making them ideal for various climates. When considering composite decking for your ranch home:

• Compare different brands and styles to find the best fit for your home.
• Consider color options that complement your home’s exterior.
• Look for products with good warranties and proven durability.
• Factor in the initial cost versus long-term savings on maintenance.
• Think about eco-friendly options made from recycled materials.

In addition to their resilience and ease of care, composite decking materials, like these boards from Trex, are available in a wide range of textures and finishes, allowing you to achieve the look of natural wood or modern designs that suit your taste.

Add a Porch Swing

A porch swing can add charm and functionality to your ranch home’s exterior. As shown in the redesign, it makes the space feel more inviting and cozy. When adding a porch swing:

• Ensure your porch structure can support the weight of the swing and its occupants.
• Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture.
• Add comfortable, water-resistant cushions and pillows for extra comfort.
• Position the swing to take advantage of the best views or breezes.
• Opt for weather-resistant materials like teak, cedar, or high-quality synthetics.

Including a sturdy anchor system and regularly checking the swing’s integrity can add years to its life, ensuring it remains a safe and enjoyable feature for all ages.

Even smaller porches have enough space for traditional furniture pieces that add character and functionality. The Adirondack-style two-seater shown as an alternate choice for the porch swing is a perfect example of how traditional furniture can enhance an outdoor seating area.

Use Whimsical Details

Adding whimsical details can inject personality into your ranch home’s exterior. This Moravian-star pendant light from Meyda Lighting adds a touch of charm and uniqueness. When incorporating whimsical elements, ensure that they still complement your home’s overall style. You may also want to use them sparingly to avoid overwhelming your exterior design.

Incorporating small statues, quirky mailboxes, and colorful garden accessories can further personalize your space while adding a playful and inviting feel. However, don’t be afraid to change these elements seasonally for a fresh look.

Pick Up a Couple of Planters

Flanking the porch steps with container plants offers an instant and affordable curb-appeal boost. When adding planters to your ranch home’s exterior:

• Choose containers that complement your home’s style and color scheme.
• Opt for a variety of plants with different heights, textures, and colors.
• Consider low-maintenance, drought-resistant plants for easy care.
• Change out plants seasonally for year-round color.
• Ensure proper drainage to protect your porch or steps from water damage.

Planters are a versatile and relatively inexpensive way to add color and life to your home’s exterior, making it feel more welcoming and well-maintained. Combining aromatic herbs, vibrant flowers, and lush green foliage can create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to the senses.

Our Conclusion

Reworking a ranch-style home can dramatically improve its curb appeal and overall aesthetic. From structural changes like adding porches and gables to simpler updates like new paint colors and landscaping, there are numerous ways to transform a plain ranch into a standout home. By incorporating elements like O’Leary suggested for this home’s exterior design, homeowners can create a more inviting and visually appealing exterior that reflects their personal style while enhancing their property’s value.