What is a bungalow?

When searching for a place to call home, finding the right home type can make a big difference. Not only can the right home type influence your lifestyle, but it can also impact your costs. Bungalows represent one classic home type sought after by many home buyers.

This guide explores what bungalows are and how this one-level single-family home type might suit your needs.

What are the characteristics of a bungalow?

A bungalow is typically a single-story house with a low-pitched roof. Although many bungalow house styles exist, the basic layout is characterized by shaded front porches, ample windows, and a low-pitched roof.

History of bungalows

The word “bungalow” is derived from the Hindi word “Bangla,” which here describes the style of house in the Bengal region of India. Bungalows were built in this region during British rule as early as the mid-17th century, usually as residences for ambassadors and travelers. The houses were one story with thatched roofs and wide verandas.

Bungalows made their way to Britain in the mid-19th century and became a popular style of home. Soon after in the early 20th century, bungalows also became popular in the U.S., especially in Southern California. The style’s ability to remain simple and attainable contributed to its increased acclaim. Companies even developed bungalow “kits” that included construction materials that were sent to the site.

What a bungalow looks like

When you see a bungalow, you can expect a low-pitched roof, a covered front porch, and clean design lines. After you enter, you can expect an open floor plan.

Some of the hallmark features of a bungalow include:

• Open floor plan: Living spaces within a bungalow typically include an open floor plan. While not all bungalows have an open design concept, it’s often a part of the layout.
• Low-pitched roof: One of its most distinct features, the roof of a bungalow is low-pitched and hangs over the edge of the house.
• Front porch: Bungalows typically have large front porches that are covered by the low-pitched roof. For larger bungalows, the veranda may wrap around the side.
• Low profile: Bungalows are relatively low to the ground since they are one to one-and-a-half stories tall, making them a more accessible choice for many.
• Proximity to urban areas: Bungalows have a smaller footprint in comparison to other styles of homes. This makes them easier to fit into crowded urban areas.
• Larger footprint: With its shorter structure, bungalows have a larger footprint than many multistory homes.

Where bungalows are popular

Today, bungalows are a particularly popular style in California. But this home style can be found in many major cities across the country. You’ll even find bungalows in other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom.

The bungalow’s charming features make the style a good option for many buyers, especially for those looking to buy a house with an open floor plan.

Popular bungalow house styles

Following the bungalow’s popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries, different styles of bungalows were developed across the world. Here are some types of bungalow-style homes that you might spot on the market :

• Craftsman bungalow: Often considered the most classic and modern version of the bungalow, the Craftsman includes shingled roofs and overhanging eaves with a veranda. Many Craftsman bungalows are painted in neutral colors to blend in with the surrounding area.
• California bungalow: The California bungalow utilizes materials like stucco, redwood shingles, and horizontal siding, but its style is like the Craftsman design. Many California bungalows have wooden details inside and exposed beams.
• Chicago bungalow: Chicago bungalows are known for being longer due to the city’s narrow lots. Mostly built with brick, a Chicago bungalow has a low-pitched, hipped roof with wide overhangs.
• Tudor bungalow: Combining the bungalow with the late-medieval, early Renaissance Tudor architecture style, Tudor bungalows have half-timbered exteriors, asymmetrical floor plans, and steep roofs.
• Prairie bungalow: Prairie bungalows have large piers to support the porch roof, with wide, central chimneys, and flat-hipped roof lines.
• Mission bungalow: With inspiration from Spanish architecture, mission bungalows incorporate tile roofs, colorful glass, and archways.

Before you jump into home shopping, consider making a list of what you like and don’t like. Giving a short list of preferred styles to your real estate agent can help them track down the right home for you.

What are the differences between traditional houses and bungalows?

Bungalows aren’t quite the same as a traditional-style home. We explore some of the key differences below.

Two-story homes vs. a bungalow

Unlike a bungalow, two-story homes have a complete second floor with living spaces upstairs. In many cases, the bedrooms are separated into the upstairs area. With a second story, most two-story homes offer significantly more square footage than bungalows.

For families seeking more separate spaces and increased privacy, a two-story home might work best. But it won’t offer the single-story living that many find appealing in bungalows.

Ranch-style vs. a bungalow

Like a bungalow, ranch-style homes are typically single-story homes. But ranch-style homes tend to have a more elongated layout than a compact bungalow.

Ranch-style homes are often slightly larger than bungalows. With more separate spaces, it’s easier for families to find privacy in a ranch-style layout.

Cottage-style vs. a bungalow

Cottage-style homes have many similarities with bungalows. Cottage-style homes are generally on the smaller side, with around less than 1,000 square feet. But unlike a bungalow, these homes rarely have a front porch or any size.

In many cases, cottage-style homes are rather lacking in ornamentation. For home buyers seeking simple finishes and single-story living, cottage-style homes may fit the bill.

Townhouse vs. a bungalow

Unlike a detached bungalow, townhomes share walls with other homeowners. Additionally, townhomes can include two or three stories of living spaces and sometimes more square footage.

For homeowners seeking minimal yard maintenance who are comfortable living on multiple floors, a townhouse might be a good fit.

Pros and cons of bungalow homes

Living in a bungalow has both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Pros

• Affordability : Bungalows typically are a lower-cost option due to their smaller size. Not only are they usually less expensive to purchase, but they typically have lower utility bills due to their smaller footprint.
• Accessibility: A bungalow’s single-floor layout offers a more accessible home option to those with mobility issues. Even if the bungalow is one-and-a-half stories, most of the living space remains on the first floor.
• Potential to expand: If the lot has enough space to expand the house, bungalows are a great option for those who are interested in home additions. Some options include adding a garage, loft, sunroom, or dormers.

Cons

• Outdated interior design: Bungalows have been around for a long time, meaning that outdated architecture may be a part of the deal. If buying an older home, expect more maintenance and repairs than other homes.
• Smaller bedrooms and bathrooms: Due to the design of bungalows, the bedrooms and bathrooms can be on the smaller side.
• Lack of privacy: With all the windows and rooms located on the first floor, some may find that bungalows don’t offer enough privacy. If this is a concern for you, consider planting trees or landscaping to physically block people from seeing directly into your home.

The bottom line: Bungalows offer charm and affordability

With a deep history, bungalows have a unique build that make them a good option for many potential home buyers. If you aren’t sure what home style is best for you, consider touring a variety of home types before narrowing down your search.

Ready to buy your ideal bungalow? Get approved with Visto Mortgage ® today.

Sarah Sharkey is a personal finance writer who enjoys helping readers make informed financial decisions. She lives in Florida with her husband and dogs. When she’s not writing, she’s outside exploring the coast.

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