BEHIND THE STYLE | RANCH⁠

The ranch-style home isn’t just a symbol of Southern California—it’s the foundation of modern California living.Before open floor plans became the hallmark of mid-century modern homes, Southern Californians were already living that way. When you think of Southern California, you probably picture sunshine, backyard barbecues, and effortless indoor-outdoor living. Much of that lifestyle began with the ranch house. Emerging in California during the 1930s, ranch homes featured open layouts, large windows, sliding glass doors, and easy access to patios and gardens—bringing the outdoors in. Architect Cliff May, known as the Father of the California Ranch House, helped popularize a more casual, family-focused way of living that perfectly suited Southern California. After World War II, ranch homes fueled the region’s suburban boom, becoming one of the most successful residential designs in American history. Today, from Long Beach to Pasadena and the San Fernando Valley, the ranch house remains a timeless symbol of the California dream.

Watch the full story of how the ranch house shaped California living.