When you think about the residential architectural styles that define America, the rambling Ranch is one that immediately comes to mind. It’s the definitive 1950s home that many of us grew up in, so it’s not surprising a new generation is gravitating towards these traditional homes as they begin their families. In other words, the rambling Ranch is hip again, in a big way.
These homes have become sought-after for the same reasons our parents and grandparents longed to own them. They promote “a casual, family-oriented lifestyle,” according to our favorite reference book, “A Field Guide to American Houses.” They are also the first homes that were designed to promote the indoor-outdoor connection. Because architects like Cliff May helped to popularize the style throughout America, there are still plenty of them around, and we have a beauty for you today at 5349 Southern Avenue.
One of the many things we love about this 1954 updated rambling ranch is the flow and space. At 3,013 square feet with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a powder bath, it’s definitely the sort of home that is suited for raising a family.
It’s easy to see why these homes are resonating so well with young homeowners today. They bring back memories of comfort, family, and tradition.
“This house has special meaning for our family,” homeowner Laetitia Sherman said. “My mother grew up on this block. I purchased this home because it was beautiful and close to my grandmother who lived just three houses down. It’s the house where I met my husband and where we brought our babies home. It’s an easy house to own and the neighbors are wonderful! It’s also convenient to everything. I work in both downtown Dallas as well as Plano, so this quick access in both directions means I’m only 10-15 minutes away from wherever I need to be.”
When updating a ranch, you have to be mindful of doing it right, and the Shermans have made excellent decisions throughout the home. I am totally envious of the four built-in California closet systems. The smart home features and surround sound system are right up there on my list of must-haves as well.
“This house has worked well for us,” Anthony Sherman said. “The three primary bedrooms are all off the main hallway, so our little family is all on one end. The fourth bedroom, however, provided us with much-needed flexibility. We have used it as a guest room, a home office and a playroom for our children. I also like how it’s always quiet in the evenings here.”
This neighborhood is one of those Dallas gems. It’s in this little enclave just south of Greenway Parks bounded by Inwood Road, Mockingbird Lane, the Dallas North Tollway, and Beverly Drive. It’s a hot spot that keeps getting hotter.
I think Cliff May and the architects of his era would be delighted to see how the rambling ranch has stood the test of time.
David Griffin Realtors Diane and Vinnie Sherman have this beautiful rambling ranch at 5349 Southern Ave. listed for $1.129 million.
Broker Open Tuesday, April 9, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Karen Eubank is the owner of Eubank Staging and Design. She has been an award-winning professional home stager and writer for over 25 years. Karen teaches the popular Staging to Sell class and is the creator of the online course, The Beginners Guide to Buying Wholesale. Her love of dogs, international travel, history, white paint, champagne, artificial turf, and Tudor and Midcentury Modern homes, and any house designed by Clifford Hutsell knows no bounds. Her father was a spy, so she keeps secrets very well! Find Karen at www.eubankstaging.com
