What is a Bungalow House?

Of all the most popular home styles in the United States, few are as popular as the Bungalow style. 

Though the style’s origins can be traced back to 19th-century India, the more popular "Craftsman" variation was born in Pasadena, California. From there, the Bungalow, along with all of its variants, took hold as one of the most popular home styles in Los Angeles, architectural styles in San Diego, and later the rest of the country.

The Bungalow is primarily cherished for its simplicity, coziness, beach-like exterior, and enough versatility to allow for substantial renovations as buyers see fit. But with so many innovations through the years, buyers may find all the variety a bit overwhelming. That’s where the Prevu team has you covered.

We’ll take you on a crash course in everything you need to know about the Bungalow House style, from what defines it to the different varieties of Bungalow houses and where you can find them.

What are Bungalow houses?

Bungalow houses are typically one or one-and-a-half-story homes that emphasize a horizontal, low-to-the-ground profile. 

Bungalows are characterized by their wide, inviting front porches and gently sloping roofs. They often feature an open floor plan that fosters a sense of spaciousness and flow. The interior typically showcases built-in cabinetry, natural materials like wood and stone, and a focus on craftsmanship and detail.

Large front porches serve as an extension of the living space, evoking the charming practice of gathering with friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of home. Overhanging eaves provide shade and protection from the elements, making the porch an inviting space year-round.

Why people love Bungalow houses

The appeal of Bungalow houses lies in their versatility and charm. 

Their compact size makes them ideal for small families, couples, or individuals looking for a cozy and manageable home. The open floor plans and built-in features create a sense of spaciousness without sacrificing comfort.

Bungalows are also incredibly adaptable. Homeowners can easily renovate or expand their homes to suit changing needs, whether it’s adding an extra bedroom, a modern kitchen, or an outdoor living space. This flexibility makes Bungalows a popular choice for those looking to personalize their living space.

Types of Bungalow houses

• Craftsman Bungalow
• California Bungalow
• Chicago Bungalow
• Ranch Bungalow
• Mission Bungalow

Craftsman Bungalow

The Craftsman Bungalow is the quintessential American Bungalow style, synonymous with the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century. 

Originating in Pasadena, California, and popularized by architects Charles and Henry Greene, the Craftsman Bungalow emphasizes handcrafted details and natural materials, making it a standout in architectural history.

Key features of Craftsman Bungalows include low-pitched, gabled roofs with wide eaves and exposed rafters, providing a sturdy and grounded appearance. These homes often feature large front porches supported by tapered columns, creating an inviting entrance that extends the living space outdoors. Inside, the focus is on open floor plans that promote a sense of space and flow between rooms.

California Bungalow

The California Bungalow is a relaxed and stylish variation of the Bungalow that gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in Southern California. Known for its laid-back charm and emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, the California Bungalow is a perfect reflection of the region’s climate and lifestyle.

These homes are typically single-story with a low-pitched roof and wide eaves that provide shade and protection from the sun. The exterior often features stucco walls, wood siding, and red-tiled roofs, reflecting the Spanish Colonial Revival influence. Large front porches with overhanging beams create a welcoming entrance and extend the living space outdoors.

Inside, California Bungalows are designed with an open floor plan that maximizes space and natural light. The interiors often include built-in furniture, such as bookcases, window seats, and dining nooks, crafted from natural wood. Fireplaces with decorative tiles add warmth and character to the living areas.

Chicago Bungalow

The Chicago Bungalow is a distinctive variation of the Bungalow style that emerged in the early 20th century. It was designed to suit Chicago's urban landscape and climate. 

Chicago bungalows, known for their solid brick construction and practical design, are a staple of the city’s residential architecture.

These homes are typically one-and-a-half stories tall, with a full basement and raised foundation to accommodate Chicago’s cold winters. The signature low-pitched, hipped roof and wide eaves provide a compact and sturdy appearance. Large front windows, sometimes featuring decorative stained glass, allow for ample natural light while adding an element of elegance to the exterior.

Ranch Bungalow

The Ranch Bungalow, often simply referred to as the Ranch-style house, is a mid-20th-century innovation that combines the simplicity and functionality of the Bungalow with the sprawling, open layout of a Ranch house. 

Originating in the 1940s and gaining popularity in the post-World War II era, Ranch Bungalows are typically single-story homes with long, low profiles.

These homes often feature large windows, sliding glass doors, and a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. The open floor plan is a hallmark of the Ranch Bungalow, with spacious living areas that flow seamlessly into one another, often centered around a large kitchen or family room. The exterior usually includes a mix of natural materials like wood, brick, and stone, contributing to a casual, relaxed aesthetic.

Mission Bungalow

The Mission Bungalow is a distinctive variation of the traditional Bungalow style that incorporates elements of the Spanish Mission architectural style. 

Originating in California, these homes are easily recognizable by their stucco exteriors, red-tiled roofs, and arched doorways and windows. The Mission Bungalow often features a low-pitched, clay-tiled roof that extends over a broad, shaded front porch, supported by thick, square columns.

Inside, Mission Bungalows typically maintain the open floor plan and built-in furniture characteristic of Craftsman Bungalows, but with added Spanish-influenced details such as wrought-iron fixtures, decorative tilework, and hardwood floors. These homes often include a courtyard or patio area, providing a private outdoor space that complements the indoor living areas.

Key characteristics of Bungalow Houses

• Low-pitched roofs
• Wide front porches
• Open floor plans
• Built-in furniture
• Natural materials
• Exposed beams and rafters
• Single-story design
• Simple, practical layouts

Low-pitched roofs

Bungalows typically feature low-pitched roofs with wide eaves, creating a horizontal, grounded appearance. This design helps with ventilation and provides shade, keeping the house cool in warmer climates.

Wide front porches

A hallmark of Bungalow homes is their expansive front porches, often supported by thick, tapered columns. These porches extend the living space outdoors, providing a welcoming spot for relaxation and socializing.

Open floor plans

Inside, Bungalows usually boast open floor plans that maximize the use of space. This layout encourages a seamless flow between living areas, making the home feel larger and more connected.

Built-in furniture

Craftsman Bungalows, in particular, are known for their built-in furniture, such as bookcases, benches, and cabinetry. These built-ins are both functional and decorative, emphasizing craftsmanship and practicality.

Natural materials

Bungalows emphasize the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and brick. This focus on earthy, organic elements enhances the home’s integration with its surroundings and reflects a commitment to quality and durability.

Exposed beams and rafters

Many Bungalows, especially Craftsman styles, feature exposed beams and rafters. These elements add a unique interior charm and highlight the home’s structural integrity.

Single-story design

Bungalows are predominantly single-story homes, though some may have a small second-story or loft area. This design makes them accessible and easy to navigate.

Simple, practical layouts

The overall layout of a Bungalow is straightforward and functional, with an emphasis on practicality. Rooms are designed to be versatile and accommodate various needs without unnecessary complexity.

History of Bungalow Houses

The term "Bungalow" itself originates from the Hindi word "Bangla," which refers to the single-story, thatched cottages built in the Bengal region of India. These modest dwellings were designed to be practical and comfortable, providing a cool refuge from the hot Indian climate.

The Bungalow style made its way to the Western world in the late 19th century, particularly influencing British colonial architecture. British officers and expatriates in India began adopting the Bungalow design for their homes, appreciating its simplicity and functional layout. 

The Bungalow's journey to the United States began in the early 20th century when it underwent significant transformation and gained widespread acclaim. 

The American Bungalow movement is most closely associated with the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized handcrafted details, natural materials, and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. This movement was a reaction against the industrialization and mass production of the Victorian era, promoting a return to simplicity and quality craftsmanship.

Pasadena, California, became the epicenter of the American Bungalow movement, thanks in large part to the work of architects Charles and Henry Greene. The Greene brothers designed some of the most iconic Craftsman Bungalows, which featured low-pitched roofs, wide front porches, and intricate woodwork. 

Where to find Bungalow houses

• Pasadena, California
• Berkeley, California
• Santa Monica, California
• Seattle, Washington

Pasadena, California

As the birthplace of the Craftsman Bungalow, Pasadena boasts numerous examples of this iconic style. Buyers considering moving to Pasadena will get to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, many of which are dotted with beautifully preserved Bungalows that showcase the best of early 20th-century architecture.

Berkeley, California

A move to Berkeley means access to its acclaimed University and access to the Bay Area. But it also means access to eclectic and historic architecture, much of which includes prime examples of traditional Bungalows. 

The city’s neighborhoods, like North Berkeley and Elmwood, are filled with such charming homes, often featuring lush gardens and vintage details that reflect the area's bohemian and intellectual spirit.

Santa Monica, California

There are plenty of reasons to move to Santa Monica, and one of them is its healthy offering of California Bungalows. Areas like Ocean Park and Sunset Park are particularly known for their well-preserved Bungalows, boasting classic stucco exteriors, red-tiled roofs, and inviting front porches that capture the essence of Southern California living.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle's unique neighborhoods offer plenty of areas where buyers can explore different styles of Bungalows, reflecting the city's appreciation for craftsmanship and natural materials. These homes blend seamlessly with the Pacific Northwest's scenic beauty, providing a cozy retreat from the urban hustle.

Summary of the Bungalow style house

Originating from the Bengali region of India and brought to prominence in America through the Arts and Crafts movement, Bungalows are characterized by their low-pitched roofs, wide front porches, and open floor plans. These homes typically feature natural materials like wood and stone, emphasizing quality craftsmanship and a harmonious connection with their surroundings.

The Bungalow style encompasses several variations, each with unique regional influences. 

The Craftsman Bungalow, known for its handcrafted details and exposed beams, originated in Pasadena, California, and became synonymous with the American Bungalow movement. The California Bungalow reflects the Spanish Colonial Revival style with its stucco exteriors and red-tiled roofs, while the Chicago Bungalow is known for its sturdy brick construction, designed to endure the Midwest's colder climate.