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.
Hugh Maastricht is the director of New Realm Homes. With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, Hugh has a demonstrated history of working in Construction, Carpentry, New Home Construction, Extensions, and Employee Training. Hugh graduated from Box Hill Institute where he studied Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection.
Hugh loves building houses that are creative and innovative and different from everyone else. Most of all, he wants happy clients that get exactly what they want and have had fun getting there.