Ranch living is enjoying an all-time high, with NBC reporting that millions of Americans fled big city life in 2020 to embrace less dense living areas, with top destinations including Sacramento, California; Phoenix; and Austin, Texas. Many who moved cited their interest in more space (including more yard space), better views, and greater proximity to ‘green’ natural and landscaped places. Ranch living – which enables home dwellers to live in the midst of majestic landscapes and keep as many animals as they wish – is enjoying a new boom, though trendy urbanites are bringing their idea of modern design to their countryside interiors. Below are just a few of the most exciting features of new ranch-style homes.
Spa-Like Living
People moving to southern states like Texas often look for land in areas like Taylor or Travis counties, owing to the vast acreage available. Travis County land, for instance, comprises ranches covering tens or hundreds of acres, often close to water features (e.g. Lake Austin), wildlife, and stunning oak and pecan trees. These natural features make a magnificent backdrop to constructions such as outdoor infinity pools, outdoor yoga gazebos, teak-roofed outdoor dining areas, Balinese beds, and other features that can lend a spa-like feel to a home. The global crisis which commenced in 2020 is inspiring many to turn their homes into chill-out, relaxing zones that can be used for health and wellness pursuits, as well as for entertaining small groups of family and friends.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design seeks to build an ‘innate affinity with the natural world’ by breaking down barriers between our interior and exterior worlds. This is achieved by inviting in natural light via features such as floor-to-ceiling glass walls or sliding doors, double-height ceilings, and the use of natural materials, patterns and colors both indoors and outdoors. It also embraces recuperative spaces filled with greenery, such as plants hanging from walls and ceilings, vertical green walls to separate individual spaces, and the use of natural imagery through artworks and lighting features.
Eclectic Design
Modern ranches celebrate traditional rustic living while imbuing spaces with modern materials such as concrete, mixed metals, and designer lighting and artistic pieces. For instance, traditional wooden floors and wooden-beamed ceilings can be married to graceful designer chandeliers, pendant lighting, and custom made central islands in combinations like natural marble and steel. Stately, traditional pieces such as Georgian desks and Chesterfield sofas can stand alongside leather butterfly chairs, colorful carpets, and lamps with flirty features like bubbles or feathers. ‘Serious’ spots such as libraries, studies, or home offices can be given pops of color with the help of fabric-effect wallpaper or hand-painted wallpaper embellished with images of beautiful plants and animals.
People across the globe are increasingly looking to country living as a way to enjoy space, relaxation, and a haven from over-congested city life. New-style ranch homes also appeal to those with an eye for design, with many boasting similar design features to those taking over sartorial homes in big cities. These features include the incorporation of spa-like features, biophilic design, and eclectic interiors that celebrate individuality and personality.
