What is a bungalow?

Savannah is home to many architectural styles and one of the most popular is the bungalow.  Perhaps the highest concentration of Arts & Crafts style bungalows are found in Ardsley Park, the unofficial designation for a neighborhood made up of more than a dozen wards.  It is located in the heart of the city, with numerous parks and green spaces, and is highly desired among young families. The majority of these homes were constructed in the 1940’s and have gone through at least one round of updating or renovation.   Often, buyers have asked, “What makes a house a bungalow?”
The term actually precedes the Arts & Crafts movement in America.  In fact, “bungalow” was used as far back as the late 1600’s to describe detached, single story homes with wide verandas.  The description has been used to describe a variety of styles all across the globe.  So, in Savannah, what makes a bungalow a bungalow?
The Visual Dictionary of American Domestic Architecture by Rachel Carley is the best source I’ve discovered that displays the most common features, including:

• One or one-and-a-half story detached home
• Wide veranda or deep porch, with dwarf piers
• Often containing projecting eaves and cutout brackets
• Low pitched roof with rafter tails
• Grouped windows, often with 8 over 1 double hung sash
• Clapboard siding
• Built in cupboards 

The typical Ardsley Park bungalow is under 2000 square feet and is priced in the the low to mid-$200’s.  While clapboard siding is most frequently associated with the true bungalow, Ardsley Park also boasts a twist on the theme, i.e., brick style bungalows with glorious brick arches and the same interior surprises of built-ins, hardwood floors, banquettes, Arts & Crafts inspired fireplaces & surrounds, and much more.


 

Buyers who are familiar with the style features they prefer are loved by the Realtors who serve them!  Even if a buyer can’t walk up and say “bungalow,” it is highly recommended that he/she builds a picture file (magazine, iPhone, etc.) of the types of style features that are attractive.  With those in mind, the Realtor should be able to match architectural style and zero in on the most likely neighborhoods for consideration.   If you need help determining your “style,” do not hesitate to contact me.  I’m a professional match-maker!