Charming Historic Bungalows

No home is quite as cozy as a bungalow, and we’re obsessed with these historic homes that have a new lease on life.

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August 01, 2023

By: Chelsey Bowen

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For the Love of Bungalow Style

Quaint, charming and comfortable, bungalows are pleasing-to-the-eye small homes that have a balanced, well-proportioned design. Though their origins begin before they hit the American streets, the style became quite popular in the states in the early 1900s. As house rehabbers have started restoring historic bungalows from the first half of the 20th century, these beautiful homes are making a huge resurgence on the market. Fresh hues, uncovered original architecture and elevated materials bring these bungalows into the modern age.

Use Every Available Inch

Built in the 1930s, this green and white bungalow kitchen has had a true revival. Working within the original footprint, Copper Sky Design + Remodel came up with a clever plan to maximize the floor plan by making use of all the vertical space. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry provides ample storage for a modern family, and a rolling library ladder gives them ease of access.

From: Copper Sky Design + Remodel

Welcome With Modern Style

Found in the Adair Park neighborhood of Atlanta, Ga., this colorful bungalow brings historic architecture into the here and now. Windows trimmed in bright yellow and a front door in electric orange pop off the subtly purple exterior. The thoughtful front yard landscaping pairs contrasting gravel and mounded mulch islands for a low-maintenance design.

Bring 1921 to Life

Salvaged and upcycled is the name of the game in this revamped bungalow. The homeowners refurbished the entire home themselves, sourcing most of their materials from a local non-profit salvage yard. Reclaimed beams find a new lease on life as rustic ceiling beams, discarded furniture is restored and existing architectural elements become the highlights of the home.

Amp Up the Tiny

Petite bathrooms are a hallmark of bungalows, but that doesn’t mean they have to feel small. An abundance of white — tile, vanity and shower curtain — visually expands the room, while the mix of subway and penny round tile infuse the room with plenty of pattern. This house is over 100 years old and still had its original cast-iron bathtub, which the homeowners were able to refinish and save.

Improve the Curb Appeal

A turn-of-the-century home has a refreshed Americana Craftsman look after Rehab Addict host Nicole Curtis gets her hands on it. The neglected 1923 bungalow was close to being torn down by the city, but after Nicole’s brighten-up remodel with white window trim and tan fascia boards, the home is the star on the block.

From: Nicole Curtis

Try a New Hue

Sweet shades transform typical bungalows into the most charming abodes. This mint green home has a touch of modern farmhouse with its shiplap siding, leaded glass window and just-right-sized porch. Original-to-the-home hexagon shingles add timeless detailing to the gable.

From: Morgan Motsinger

Make It Green With Envy

When farmhouse meets bungalow, a green kitchen is essential. Lower cabinets in a muted green make for a gorgeous pairing with the combo of bright white upper cabinets and open wood shelving. Designer Morgan Motsinger kept the exposed chimney stack of the original home as a stunning focal point for the space.

From: Morgan Motsinger

Always Rely on the Porch

Located in east Nashville, this sweet bungalow has major curb appeal. The exterior trim and porch are painted matte black to create a chic juxtaposition against the crisp white siding. A traditional southern porch wraps around the side of the home for a cool place to relax during the heat of the day.

Stick With the Originals

The architectural elements of old bungalows deliver instant character and style. Original hardwood floors were discovered under carpeting and refinished to add rich warmth to the living room. Additionally, Lex and Alana Le Blanc of Listed Sisters exposed the brickwork of the fireplace and gave the surround a modern cement facelift.

Planning for the Heat

Many bungalows were built in hot climates because their high ceilings, large doors and windows and shade-giving eaves help to keep the home cool. Nestled in the Chosewood Park neighborhood of Atlanta, this dressed-in-white bungalow stands out among tree-lined, ivy-covered street. The wide porch is not only a restful place to while away the afternoon, but it also houses the homeowner’s fun collection of birdhouses.

Gather ‘Round in Comfort

Off the back of this bungalow is a screened porch, complete with a cozy fireplace for cool evenings. Seamlessly blending modern and rustic styles, the reclaimed dining table is surrounded by contemporary wired chairs. Overhead, the ceiling is painted a traditional haint blue, adding lovely color to the space and warding off any spirits.

Walkway to the Victorian

This petite bungalow may not harken back to the turn of the century, but its Victorian architecture recalls the days of yore. Muted red trim brings a burst of color to the classic gray color scheme of the exterior, and a paver walkway and driveway add to the classic aesthetic.

From: Richardson Properties and Luxury Portfolio International®

Surround in Shiplap

For this 1919 bungalow remodel, host Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper restore the hardwood floors and exposed all the original shiplap of the home. Reclaimed wood beams establish warmth overhead, and an antique chandelier illuminates the space with charm.

Refresh the Exterior

Built in the 1950s, this bungalow received the ultimate facelift from Chip and Joanna. The Craftsman-meets-cottage exterior is achieved by mixing natural wood shingles, light gray siding and a warm wood front door.

Make the Most of High Ceilings

Though bungalows are petite in stature, they typically have high ceilings that make the home feel open and bright. Stained ceiling beams define the vaulted ceiling, as well as the different areas of the open concept space.

Come On In, Y’all

For HGTV Urban Oasis 2015, they revamped a dated 1920s bungalow. The gracious front porch is a welcome respite with its comfy sofa and sun-blocking, privacy curtains. Oversized modern house numbers mark its place on the street, and a custom Craftsman-style front door leads guests into the home.

Brighten Up the Door

This has to be one of the cutest houses on the block. The 1925 bungalow has a bright and colorful color palette — navy blue siding and a vivid yellow door.

From: WINN Design + Build

Embrace the Craftsman

Starting with an earthy green hue and darkly stained wood, this restored bungalow features hallmarks of Craftsman-style bungalows: street-facing gables, low-pitched roof and exposed rafter beams. Stacked stone accents delivers the just-right rustic touch.

Find the History

Before the remodel of this quaint bungalow, the exterior siding had been painted blah white. Uncovering the wood exterior completely transforms the home back to its original glory. Mustard yellow trim and a brilliantly turquoise door introduce the fun, eclectic vibe to be found inside.

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