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Do you dream of living in a Californian bungalow? This classic style of architecture offers so many great benefits. From efficient use of space to low maintenance, there’s a lot to love about Californian bungalows.

1. Efficient use of space

   Thanks to its timeless design, every square foot of a Californian bungalow is put to great use – and is sure to impress visitors while offering plenty of space for all your needs.

   The simple and efficient design and single-storey layout ensures that most of the living space is usable, with the majority of the home’s features located on the main floor. This style is easily adaptable for many different climates, making it a great choice for anyone looking for efficient space utilisation.

   The Californian bungalow is also known for its smart utilisation of outdoor space. The large verandah and expansive yard provides plenty of room for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.

2. Charm and character

   From its classic pitched roof to its quaint porch, the bungalow style is often seen in many of Melbourne’s older neighbourhoods and is filled with character and charm. These homes boast a simple, yet elegant design, with large front verandahs and windows – making them ideal for enjoying the temperate Australian climate.

   The bungalow style is a nod to the past, with a classic charm that can’t help but make you feel right at home.

3. Versatility

   Bungalow homes have a unique aesthetic that can be adapted to fit a variety of styles, making them ideal for those who want to customise their home. For those who want to add a modern touch, the bungalow can be updated with contemporary fixtures, while still keeping a classic air. For those who prefer a more traditional look, the bungalow can be decorated with vintage pieces for a timeless feel.

   The bungalow style is also great for those who want to maximise the use of their space, as the floor plan is usually open, allowing for furniture to be rearranged easily.

4. Low maintenance

   Since the design is simple and straightforward, there’s no need to worry about complicated repairs. You can easily keep your bungalow in good condition with minimal effort.

   What’s more, you don’t have to worry about the amount of energy you need to heat and cool your bungalow. The design of the building ensures that your energy costs will be low, as the building is designed to retain heat naturally and keep the inside of your home comfortable all year round.

5. Easy to personalise

   Whether you choose to decorate with vintage furniture or modern updates, a California bungalow is the perfect canvas for any design style. With its flexible floor plan, you can easily create an open concept or multiple living spaces. From changing wall colours to adding new fixtures, you can customise your bungalow to fit your tastes and lifestyle.

   Plus, you don’t need to invest in expensive remodelling projects to do so. Instead, you can add personal touches like installing new window treatments, painting the walls, or even replacing the floors. With a few small changes, you can turn your bungalow into a beautiful and unique home that reflects your personal style.

Your Californian bungalow home builder

California bungalows offer many advantages for people looking for a unique and efficient living space. Whether you’re looking for a cosy place to call home, or a larger house to share with family, a Californian bungalow is an excellent and affordable option.

New Realm Homes is dedicated to providing creative solutions and helpful advice when it comes to designing a Californian bungalow that suits your lifestyle and taste. Contact us today to get started on creating your dream.

Creating a functional floor plan for a Californian bungalow is an interesting challenge: it’s all about using the indoor space wisely to maximise the efficiency of the space. At New Realm Homes, we approach floor plan design with creative solutions, developed in partnership with our expert designers. We understand the importance of designing a home that both meets your needs and is functional.

Creating the floor plan

When it comes to selecting the basic floor plan for your Californian bungalow, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and budget. Do you need a large entertaining area or multiple separate bedrooms? How often will you use your outdoor area? Are you planning to incorporate sustainable design elements? There are a variety of basic floor plans available, each designed to fulfil the needs of our customers.

We then take the time to understand your individual preferences and design a custom floor plan that best meets your requirements.

Adding style and functionality

Once you have decided on the final floor plan, the fun starts! Consider the colours and textures that best complement the existing space. For example, light colours can open up a room and bring in natural elements from the outdoors, while dark colours can make a room feel cosy and inviting. Think about how the furniture will be used and if it needs to be moved easily. You can also choose furniture that is functional and which fits in with your overall aesthetic.

Also read: The Californian bungalow: ideas and inspirations

Maximum effect through minimalism

Keeping the design simple will help keep the cost of construction down and will contribute to a calming atmosphere. When using minimalism in a room, accent pieces can be used to add a touch of personality and style. Careful consideration should be given to the placement of items in the room so that they do not overcrowd the space.

Designing a functional floor plan for your Californian bungalow might seem like a challenge, but with careful consideration and expert guidance, you can create a home that meets all of your needs and desires.

New Realm Homes is dedicated to providing creative solutions and helpful advice when it comes to designing a floor plan that is both beautiful and functional. Contact us today to get started on creating your dream Californian bungalow.

Californian bungalows are a style of house that originated in California towards the end of the 1800s. They are characterised by steeply pitched gable roofs and strict symmetry; the use of decorative features such as half-timbered gables, arcades and bay windows further enhances the home’s appearance.

Californian bungalows are typically made from wood, though brick and stucco variants are also common. They usually feature a large front porch, an open floor plan and plenty of natural light – mostly provided by the many windows associated with the style. Interior elements like fireplaces, built-in cabinetry and decorative mouldings give the home a unique, aesthetic character.

Californian bungalows can be built as single-storey and two-storey properties. These homes are highly sought after by homebuyers across the world.

You may also be interested in: History of The Californian Bungalow in Australia

Benefits of owning a Californian bungalow

Californian bungalows offer excellent value for money due to their timeless appeal, durable structures and unique architecture. Some of the earliest examples of the style are still standing today.

They don’t require substantial renovation when compared to other styles. These homes have often been designed and built with high-quality materials, and use features that make them energy efficient and durable. Since the basics of a Californian-style bungalow remain the same as the  original design, they do not require much maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Californian bungalows also offer strong resale value, making them a great investment for homeowners who want to make a profit, or need to relocate and sell their home. Buyers appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of these homes, which can be enjoyed inside and out.

Californian bungalows are often designed with large, open living areas that make them ideal for growing families. This design allows for plenty of living space, as well as the easy addition of extra rooms if required.

Build your own Californian bungalow in Melbourne

Californian bungalows are a great real estate asset that can provide buyers with both financial and aesthetic benefits. Thanks to their timeless design and the consistent demand for this style of property, a Californian bungalow can be a great long-term investment.

New Realm Homes is your experienced Californian bungalow builder in Melbourne. Contact us to start a conversation about owning one of these timeless classics yourself.

The classic Californian bungalow is an architectural that we love here at New Realm Homes. It’s timeless and elegant with its signature low-pitched roof and symmetrical façade. When it comes to creating your own Californian Bungalow aesthetic, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Whether you’re creating a cosy reading nook or setting up a modern dining area, consider these strategies to help you craft an unforgettable living space!

The history and characteristics of Californian bungalows

Californian bungalows are a unique style of architecture that originated in the early 20th century. They are characterised by a low-pitched roof, wide eaves and an open floor plan. It was designed to bring a sense of comfort and relaxation to its inhabitants, often with an emphasis on natural light and air circulation. Today, this classic style remains popular among Melbourne homebuyers looking for something different from the typical suburban house.

Design principles to enhance curb appeal

With their emphasis on comfort and relaxation, Californian bungalows are the perfect opportunity to add some real personality to your home. To make the most of this style, it’s important to focus on creating an inviting exterior.

First, consider adding architectural elements like columns or arches that complement the style of your house. These details can help define an entryway and create an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Second, consider your landscaping. Hanging baskets filled with vibrant flowers, or the placement of lush trees around the perimeter, will create a beautiful environment that enhances the look of your house. Adding lighting fixtures such as garden lamps also helps highlight certain features and creates a more inviting atmosphere at night.

Interior design tips to maximise space

When it comes to interior design, Californian bungalows are all about maximising space. With the right layout and decor, you can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your home that makes the most of the square footage.

First, think about how you’d like to arrange the furniture in the space. Opt for pieces that are light and airy to avoid overcrowding rooms; use chairs and sofas with slim lines or round shapes, rather than bulky profiles. Consider using multi-functional furnishings such as ottomans or storage benches which can double up as seating solutions when needed.

Second, pay attention to lighting. Natural light is key when it comes to making a space feel bigger than it actually is, so make sure you have plenty of windows and mirrors throughout your home. Accent lighting such as floor lamps or wall sconces can also be great to highlight certain areas and add a touch of sophistication to your interior decorating scheme.

Related post: Californian Bungalow Interior

Creative colour schemes to enhance aesthetics

When it comes to creating an aesthetically pleasing Californian bungalow, colour is an important factor. With the right combination of shades and hues, you can bring out the best in your home’s interior design.

Neutral tones such as white, grey or beige are classic Californian bungalow colour schemes: they create a cosy atmosphere and make rooms feel larger than they actually are. For a more modern look, choose a monochromatic palette of various shades within the same colour family – this will lend your space a clean and minimalist appeal that never goes out of style.

Furniture placement strategies to accentuate style

Furniture placement is a key factor in bringing out the unique style of your Californian bungalow.

When placing furniture in your bungalow, start by considering how much natural light is entering each room. This will help determine whether you should opt for more traditional pieces or go for something more contemporary. If there’s plenty of natural light, then bright colours and modern pieces will be great options. On the other hand, if the room is darker, then you may want to stick with classic furniture styles or earthy tones.

Melbourne Californian bungalow builders

If you dream of incorporating this unique type of architecture into your new home build, New Realm Homes is your experienced Californian bungalow builder in Melbourne. Contact us today to see how we can help create your dream home.

The Californian Bungalow is a popular style of residential architecture that originated in southern California during the early 20th century and quickly became popular all over the world, especially in Australia. It took Melbourne suburbs by storm between World War I and II. The house style was seen as ideal in the suburbs for homeowners who still wanted to enjoy outdoor living and a relaxed lifestyle, especially considering that California and Australia share similar climates in summer.

A simple style of architecture, it was often considered a more affordable alternative to the larger and more elaborate Victorian and Edwardian homes. Certain characteristics give the Californian Bungalow a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that encourages indoor-outdoor living, and have made this building style a timeless classic that remains a popular style of home throughout Melbourne.

Interior Characteristics of the Californian Bungalow 

• California bungalows typically have wood floors, wood ceilings, and wood trim throughout. 
• The living areas usually have large windows that allow plenty of natural light in. 
• Fireplaces are often found in the living room and dining room and an enclosed porch or sunroom is sometimes added to the front of the house. 
• The kitchen is usually quite small and may feature an open pantry and built-in cabinetry. 
• Furnishings are typically comfortable and informal. 
• Colours tend to be muted tones and warm earthy tones, often with a lot of white or light pastels. 
• Craftsman-style accents like built-ins, wainscoting, and hand-crafted accents are common.

Related post: Californian Bungalow Interior

Exterior Characteristics of the Californian Bungalow 

A Californian bungalow is characterised by its low-slung, single story construction and classic Craftsman styling. 

Typical exterior features of a bungalow include wide eaves with triangular brackets, a low-pitched gable roof, large windows, exposed rafters, and a porch supported by tapered columns. 

The exterior walls can be made of clapboard, shingle or stucco siding. Craftsman elements such as decorative exposed beams, slanted sill plates, exposed rafter tails and battered porch posts are common features of California bungalows.

New Realm Homes is your experienced Californian Bungalow builder in Melbourne, contact us today to see how we can help create your dream home.

The Californian bungalow originated in the early 1900’s in Southern California, United States, but quickly became popular all over the world, and especially in Australia. They are typically one-story homes with low-pitched roofs and an open concept floor plan – no hallway separating rooms.

This architectural style became popular as it was inexpensive, fast and easy to build. The style was considered simple but artistic.

History of the Californian Bungalow in Australia

It took Melbourne suburbs by storm between World War I and II, a time during which Australians experienced greater exposure to American popular culture, marking the beginning of American influences in housing. During the 1920’s almost nothing else was built. It was an ideal option for those living in the suburbs who wanted to enjoy outdoor living and a relaxed lifestyle, especially considering that California and Australia share similar climates in summer.

Also read: History of The Californian Bungalow in Australia

Californian Bungalow Interior

The California bungalow is characterised by distinct features. It comprises a single-storey house, usually with a front porch, a sloping roof, verandah pylons and a simple, yet spacious layout. As with the exterior there are certain interior features that are unique to this building type:

1. Oakwood Flooring: Californian bungalows feature hardwood floors, often in a dark stain, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
2. Decorative Fireplaces: A must-have for any true Californian bungalow, this feature adds charm and character to the home.
3. Natural Light: Arched windows and french doors that open onto patios or balconies bring natural light into the interior of these homes.
4. Old-Fashioned Staircases: Staircases are usually wide and spacious, with little adornment save for a few decorative touches.

How To Incorporate The Californian Bungalow Into Your Interior

To weave the true style of the Californian Bungalow into your home, consider the following tactics:

Accent Colour

Accent paint and wallpapers can be used to add colour to your space. Many vintage bungalows use deep blues and greens to create a cosy atmosphere.

Vintage Furniture

You can add an eclectic mix of vintage furniture like chairs, ottomans and side tables as would be found in a traditional bungalow.

Patterned Wallpaper

Wallpapers are a great way to add a unique touch to a room. Traditional Californian bungalows often feature floral and geometric patterns.

Woven Area Rugs

These area rugs are an important element that ties all the furniture pieces together, allowing them to be the focus of the room.

Wooden Elements

Use wood furniture and accessories to create a cosy atmosphere. Consider pieces like rocking chairs, armchairs, and dressers.

New Realm Homes is your experienced Californian Bungalow builder in Melbourne, contact us today to see how we can help create your dream home.

Californian Bungalows are a type of bungalow-style architecture that originated in California during the early 20th century. They are typically one-story homes with low-pitched roofs and an open concept floor plan – no hallway separating rooms.

This building style took Melbourne suburbs by storm between World War I and II when Australians experienced greater exposure to American popular culture and also due to the similar climates shared by California and Australia.

The house style is ideal in Melbourne suburbs for homeowners who want to enjoy outdoor living and a relaxed lifestyle.

Also read: History of The Californian Bungalow in Australia

Key Features of a Californian Bungalow

The Californian Bungalow has unique, distinctive features that one should try to keep intact when considering any renovations.

Exterior features often include wide verandahs, shallow-hipped roofs, decorative gable ends or dormers, and exposed rafters or open eaves. Inside, the homes feature a mix of craftsman-style details, such as built-in cabinets, wainscoting, woodwork trim, wood panelling, tiled fireplaces and even stained glass windows.

The following are distinctive features to keep in mind during renovations of your Californian bungalow and should be preserved if possible.

• The classic A-frame roofline.
• The symmetrical facade.
• Simple interior layouts: Another key feature of the Californian Bungalow is its simple layout with interiors generally consisting of only a few rooms.
• Low-pitched Roofs: Californian bungalows typically have low-pitched roofs which result in cozy, inviting interiors.
• Natural materials such as wood and stone are often used in the construction of Californian bungalows.

Reasons for Renovating a California Bungalow

Californian bungalows are known for their period features, but they can be easily renovated and transformed to suit modern family living or for any of the following reasons:

• To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home and add value to the property.
• To introduce energy-efficient features such as roof insulation, double-glazing windows and solar panels.
• To make the home more comfortable and enjoyable to live in by adding air conditioning and heating.
• To comply with current building regulations, such as fire safety requirements.
• To increase living space and functionality by adding an extension or loft conversion.
• To update the interior décor and finishes and create a modern look.
• To install accessibility features for the elderly or those with disabilities.
• To explore and exploit the potential of the original architecture.

Californian Bungalow Builders

If you’re looking to work with an experienced Californian Bungalow builder in Melbourne, contact New Realm Homes today to see how we can help with your dream home.

A California bungalow is a style of residential building type that originated in the early 1900s in Southern California in the United States. It quickly became popular worldwide, especially in Australia. This architectural style came about in response to a major sociological change in certain areas in the US. It was appreciated as it was inexpensive, fast, and easy to build. The Californian bungalow home style was considered simple but artistic.

It took Melbourne suburbs by storm between World War I and II. It was a time during which Australians experienced greater exposure to American popular culture, marking the beginning of American influences in housing. During the 1920s almost nothing else was built.

The California bungalow style house was seen as ideal in the suburbs for homeowners who still wanted to enjoy outdoor living and a relaxed lifestyle. Especially considering that California and Australia share similar climates in summer.

Characteristics of a Californian Bungalow Style

The California bungalow style is a single-story house. Usually, it has a front porch, a sloping roof, verandah pylons, and a simple, yet spacious layout.

Although this building style varies slightly in different countries, the house is commonly made from brick, weatherboard, and wood, with wooden flooring and balustrades made from wood or brick. Stained glass windows, a fashionable front door, and verandah pylons are often also present. Color schemes can vary but usually incorporate red, or livened brick colors, and greys with weatherboard finishes.

The California Bungalow in Australia Today

The evolution of the California bungalow saw regional adaptations in Australia. In Melbourne, it’s local red brick, Sydney a local liver-coloured brick and limestone evident in South Australia. The Queensland Bungalow and California Bungalow Preston also saw a transformation to timber with galvanized iron roofing.

To adjust to a modern way of living, changes are mostly noticeable in its interiors. With added entertainment rooms, more storage, and prominent windows to capitalize on natural light. California bungalow style homeowners keep to the original façade as much as possible, while adding an extension.

Today, many of the original California bungalows require renovations or modernisation. That requires the keen eye of an architect who can retain this home style’s original splendor while adding a touch of present-day refinement.

Some Renovation Tips:

• Do only what is necessary.
• Additions should be carefully inspected by a professional to locate the original parts before anything is torn down.
• Before you get started, make sure to research old records, photographs and plans at your disposal, to assist in an original restoration.

Also read: Californian Bungalow Renovation 

If you’re looking to work with an experienced Californian Bungalow builder in Melbourne, contact New Realm Homes today to see how we can help with your dream home.