Ramblers are everywhere in the Twin Cities. These one-story homes, sometimes called ranch homes, keep all the main living spaces on a single level, usually with a basement below. Many were built between the 1950s and 1970s in established neighborhoods with mature trees and larger lots. Homeowners love these areas, even when the house itself feels dated.
The good news is that ramblers are some of the most flexible homes to renovate. Their simple layout gives you plenty of room to rethink how the space works. This guide covers popular ways to update a rambler and what to consider before you start.
Why Ramblers Are Great Candidates for Renovation
Many ramblers were built with solid construction and straightforward floor plans. That simplicity makes it easier to open up the layout or add space in the right places.
Renovating can also be a practical alternative to moving. For many homeowners, updating their current rambler makes more sense than searching for a new home in a competitive market.
Popular Rambler Renovation Ideas
Open Up the Main Floor
Older ramblers often have closed-off kitchens and separate formal rooms. Removing or reworking interior walls can create an open, connected space that feels much larger. Some walls are load-bearing, so this type of project needs careful planning and the right structural support.
Update the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the most outdated room in an older rambler. A kitchen renovation can add storage and improve the layout, especially when paired with an open floor plan. In some homes, moving the kitchen to a new spot on the main floor is also an option.
Create a Primary Suite
Many ramblers have small bedrooms and a single shared bathroom. Combining rooms or adding onto the home can create a primary suite with a walk-in closet and a private bathroom. For homeowners planning to stay long-term, a main-level suite is one of the most popular updates.
Finish or Upgrade the Lower Level
Most Minnesota ramblers have a basement, and many of them are underused. Finishing the basement can add a family room, a home office, or an extra bedroom. Any new bedroom needs an egress window, which also brings more natural light into the space.
Add a Second Story
If you need more space but want to keep your yard, adding a second story is one way to expand. This is a major project that changes both the structure and the look of the home. A builder will need to evaluate whether your existing foundation and framing can support the added weight.
Refresh the Exterior
Updated siding and windows can completely change how a rambler looks from the street. A redesigned front entry or covered porch can also add character to a simple facade. Newer windows and insulation have the added benefit of keeping your home more comfortable through Minnesota winters.
What to Consider Before You Start
Older homes can come with a few surprises. Planning for them early helps keep your project on track:
- Hidden issues. Outdated wiring and plumbing may need updates once walls are opened.
- Materials from the era. Homes built before the 1980s may contain asbestos or lead paint, which require careful handling.
- Structural changes. Any project that removes walls or adds space needs a structural review before work begins.
- Permits. Most major renovations need city approval, and requirements vary depending on where you live.
Renovate or Rebuild?
Some ramblers can be transformed through renovation. Others may have enough structural issues that starting fresh makes more sense. A builder can assess your home’s condition and help you weigh both options. Our post on building a new home vs. renovating covers this decision in more detail.
Transform Your Rambler With Erotas
Erotas Custom Building helps Twin Cities homeowners get more from their homes without leaving the neighborhoods they love. We’ll walk through your rambler, talk about how you want to use the space, and help you plan a renovation that fits your goals.
Learn more about our process or reach out to start planning your renovation.