Transformed Lives
"A ranch house, because of its name alone, borrows friendliness, simplicity, informality, and gaiety from the men and women who, in the past, found those pleasures in ranch-house living." (Sunset Magazine, p. 25) Open concept homes encouraged closeness and informality. (Perspective)
Parents and Children
Relationships between parents and children in the 1950s became more relaxed from open concept living. This My Three Sons clip from 1961 illustrates informality.
Hosts and Guests
With the disappearance of walls between the living room, dining room and kitchen, hosts were free to mingle with guests. Casual entertaining brought people closer together. In the early 1960s, the Dick Van Dyke Show reflected this lifestyle, as shown in this silent clip.
The informality and closeness nurtured by the ranch design stay with us today.
 21st Century Open Concept Home |
"People like to have the illusion of space, and the free flowing floor plan that allows for easy entertaining. Many clients want to be able to prepare the meal while still entertaining their guests. Often times the party is in the kitchen, so having the space open to the living area allows guests to visit with the host, and to help out. People do not entertain in a formal manner as in the old days."
-Sandra Rinomato, former host of HGTV's Property Virgins |
The popularity of the open concept home that blends the indoors and outdoors demonstrates that this is an enduring American style.