Blog
Celebrating the Versatility and Value of Bi-Level, Split-Level and Raised Ranch Homes
From the beloved three and four level splits of the Eisenhower and Kennedy years, to the enormous factory bi-level homes of today, divided entry homes are found in virtually every corner of the globe. Whether it’s a sprawling California-style split or a frumpy raised ranch on a narrow lot, divided entry homes just don’t get... Read More
November 2, 2018
The Bi-Livel Split: A primer on divided entry homes with two floors.
If you haven’t already, please familiarize yourself with the history that gave rise to the split level as an important American vernacular. Much of this primer assumes a knowledge of the background of split levels, how they became popular, and how they work with graded terrain to create a visually pleasing appearance. This page addresses the exterior... Read More
November 2, 2018
Exterior Design for Split-Level Homes
For most of us, the exterior of our split level is the last thing we address when remodeling or just “spiffing up” our residences. It tends to be the most difficult for the do-it-yourselfer, and the most expensive either way. And unlike the interior, it is very difficult and costly to fix poor design choices... Read More
November 2, 2018
The Raised Ranch: Living at the Top of the Stairs
If you haven’t already, please familiarize yourself with the history that gave rise to the split level as an important American vernacular. Much of this primer assumes a knowledge of the background of split levels, how they became popular, and how they work with graded terrain to create a visually pleasing appearance. This page addresses the exterior... Read More
November 2, 2018
A Fresh Approach to Home Ownership
Step One: Recognize that Less is usually More The goal of most Americans is to own a home. Once they do, the goal becomes a larger home, and ultimately, the “dream house.” For many families, however, a larger home will often do more harm than good. Consider these two statistics: The number of people living... Read More
November 2, 2018
Addition & Subtraction: Adding on to Split-Level Homes
Remember the basics Note that the ideas on this page are a reference point…fuel for the imagination. These are not “plans” but general concepts of how to make an addition on a raised ranch, bi-level or split-level…and how to avoid the common pitfalls that rob a home of curb appeal. Before undertaking your addition, the... Read More
November 2, 2018
Interior Design for Split-Level Homes
Step One: Consider Your Style Imagine if you pulled up to a dude ranch for a weekend of horseback riding, canoeing and hiking. The ranch has a rustic wood exterior, like something from a John Wayne epic. When you walk in, however, you find the decor and furnishings identical to a trendy Malibu beach house.... Read More
November 2, 2018
How to Grow Pole Beans
Growing beans using a pole is known to have more benefits than any other method available. According to experts, may they be gardeners who grow beans at home or those who do it for a living, growing this type of beans cannot be compared to other bean types, even the best of their varieties. Furthermore,... Read More
November 1, 2018
How to Grow Saskatoon Berries
You’re reading this article because you probably heard someone mention Saskatoon berries. You’ve probably read something about it online and you’re now looking for a more comprehensive guide. You want to learn how to grow Saskatoon berries. That’s something that you’ll learn from reading this article. Of course, you’ll also learn everything there is to... Read More
October 28, 2018
Wrought Iron Railings: Pros & Cons, Installation, Repair & More
Handrails at home need not be boring. You’re probably used to seeing handrails that look like just solid blocks of wood and other materials and their designs are made up of just straight lines. Some homes that are bigger and spacious may also use glass or transparent materials for a clean and minimalist look. If... Read More
October 26, 2018