When it comes to choosing a house design, bungalows are a popular choice for their unique charm and practicality. Bungalow house plans originated in India and quickly became popular among American architects in the early 1900s. These single-story homes with wide front porches, open floor plans, and low-pitched roofs were perfect for the modest lifestyle of the time. Today, bungalows have evolved to include multiple styles and designs, each with its own distinct features and character.
What is a Bungalow?
A bungalow is a small, single-story house that typically has a low-pitched roof and a wide front porch. They were first built in the early 20th century, and they were popular throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Bungalows were designed to be functional and efficient, with open floor plans and natural materials like wood and stone. They were also meant to be affordable, and many working-class families could afford to own a bungalow.
Different Types of Bungalow House Designs and Styles
1. California Bungalow
The California bungalow is a popular type of bungalow house design that originated in California in the early 1900s. These homes had stucco walls, low-pitched roofs, and wide front porches. They often had decorative elements like exposed rafters, brackets, and decorative beams. The California bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, quickly becoming a popular style throughout the United States.
2. Craftsman Bungalow
The Craftsman bungalow is another popular type of bungalow house design that originated in the early 1900s. These homes were built with natural materials like wood and stone, and they often had wide front porches with tapered columns. The Craftsman bungalow was designed to be functional and efficient, with open floor plans and built-in storage. They were also known for their decorative elements, like exposed rafters, decorative beams, and handcrafted details.
3. Spanish Bungalow
The Spanish bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that was popular in the southwestern United States in the early 1900s. Stucco walls, red tile roofs, and decorative ironwork make up the charming features of these homes. They often had arched doorways and windows, as well as ornate details like tile mosaics and decorative tiles. The Spanish bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, quickly becoming a popular style throughout the United States.
4. Cottage Bungalow
The cottage bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that was popular in the early 1900s. Somewhat similar to the Craftsman style, these houses were constructed using natural elements such as wood and stone, featuring gabled roofs with broad eaves. The cottage bungalow was designed to be cosy and comfortable, with small rooms and built-in storage. They were also known for their decorative elements like flower boxes, latticework, and decorative shutters.
5. Tudor Bungalow
The Tudor bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that was popular in the early 1900s. The houses feature half-timbered walls, steeply pitched roofs, and decorative brickwork in their construction. The Tudor bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, with open floor plans and natural materials. They were also known for their decorative elements like decorative brickwork, carved wood details, and stained glass windows.
6. Prairie Bungalow
The Prairie bungalow is a type of bungalow house design popular in the early 1900s. The houses feature low, elongated roofs and horizontal designs and are constructed with natural elements such as wood and stone. The Prairie bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, with open floor plans and built-in storage. They were also known for their decorative elements like stained glass windows, decorative brickwork, and handcrafted details.
7. Modern Bungalow
The Modern bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that combines traditional elements with contemporary design features. These homes were built with clean lines, minimalistic detailing, and large windows that bring in natural light. They often have flat roofs, and they are built with materials like concrete, steel, and glass. The Modern bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, with open floor plans that create a seamless association between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
8. Coastal Bungalow
The Coastal bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that is perfect for those who love the beach and ocean. These homes are built with weathered wood, shingle siding, and metal roofing. They often have large wrap-around porches and expansive windows to take advantage of the coastal views. The Coastal bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, with open floor plans that maximise space and natural light.
9. Log Bungalow
The Log bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that is perfect for those who love the rustic feel of a cabin in the woods. These charming abodes are constructed with sizeable logs, boasting spacious front porches and sturdy stone chimneys. The Log bungalow was designed to be both functional and beautiful, with open floor plans and natural materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
10. Mid-Century Modern Bungalow
The Mid-Century Modern bungalow is a type of bungalow house design that was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. These homes were built with clean lines, simple detailing, and large windows that bring in natural light. They often have flat roofs and are built with concrete, steel, and glass materials. The Mid-Century Modern bungalow was designed to be functional and beautiful, with open floor plans creating a sense of space and connection.
Conclusion
Bungalow houses come in many different styles and designs, each staying true to its characteristics and features. Whether you prefer the traditional Craftsman bungalow or the modern Coastal bungalow, there is a bungalow style that is perfect for your lifestyle and preferences. Bungalows are a timeless design that has stood the test of time, and these evergreen home styles continue to be popular among homeowners today.
