7 Ranch-Style House Plans We Love

By Southern Living Editors Updated February 19, 2021
Credit: Hector M Sanchez

Finding the right house plan is different for every family. Perhaps you're looking for a modern farmhouse with enough space for multiple generations under one roof. Or a wide wraparound porch for outdoor entertaining. Or even a teeny 540-square-foot cottage for your mother-in-law. Whatever features are on your dream-home checklist, there's a perfect plan to fit the needs of your family. Cue the rancher. This style rose to popularity across America in the fifties and sixties because these rambling one-story homes can stretch out on suburban lots. Ranch-style homes work for several phases of life, from a growing family to retirement. Architectural styles can vary from traditional to mid-century to contemporary. Ranchers are long, single-story homes with low-slung rooflines. Most have an open-concept layout and a private patio. Here, seven of our favorite ranch-style Southern Living house plans.

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The Ridge (SL-1973)

Credit: Hector M Sanchez

You might recognize this 3,500-square-foot home as our 2018 Idea House. Its welcoming front porch and spacious living areas make it a prime spot for entertaining.

See the plan: The Ridge

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River Run (SL-578)

Credit: Southern Living

The country-style ranch wows with its spacious front porch and mansard style roof.

See the plan: River Run

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Lakeside Cottage (SL-751)

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The skylit porch is a standout feature of the L-shaped Lakeside Cottage.  

See the plan: Lakeside Cottage

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Bellewood Cottage (SL-2049)

Credit: Southern Living House Plans

Welcoming aging parents or boomerang children comfortably back under your roof with the adjoining carriage house.

See the plan: Bellewood Cottage

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Legacy Ranch (SL-2028)

Hallmarks of the Legacy Ranch plan are its gracious outdoor living areas. A separate 600-square-foot "Casita" can work as a home office, mother-in-law suite, or guest house.

See the plan: Legacy Ranch

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Sand Mountain House (SL-977)

Credit: Rob Lagerstrom

This home's thoughtful layout offers open gathering spaces for family hangouts as well as quiet spaces to rest and retreat.

See the plan: Sand Mountain House

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Longleaf Cottage (SL-1961)

Credit: Southern Living House Plans

The 2,500-square-foot Longleaf Cottage is designed for indoor-outdoor living with two porches and patio for entertaining.

See the plan: Longleaf Cottage

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By Southern Living Editors