A 1970s Single-Story Ranch House Transformed into a Peaceful and Quiet Homestead

published Jan 13, 2023

A 1970s Single-Story Ranch House Transformed into a Peaceful and Quiet Homestead

published Jan 13, 2023
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Home Type
Bedrooms
Square feet

2000

Sq ft

2000

Name: Alexandra Rodriguez (owner/steward), Ralph (dog/rodent hunter), Cooper (livestock guardian dog), Fozzy (livestock guardian dog), SquirtDiggity (Blue Heeler/herding dog)
Location: Boulder County, Colorado
Size: 2,000 square feet
Years lived in: 2 years, owned

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It might be hard to picture, but this thoughtfully put-together farmhouse was once a sad, gray, stained carpeted nightmare (think Woodstock circa 1975, velour textures and all). After working on a 100-acre hemp farm just a few miles down the road, a close colleague of Alexandra’s introduced her to the property. Beneath a canopy of old satellites, overgrown junipers, and fence lines on the verge of toppling over, Alexandra and her mother, Robin, saw a gem waiting to be restored to its ranchette glory.

Credit: Alexandra Rodriguez

The single-story house here was built in the 1970s. Even though there was a major amount of gutting, updating, grading of the driveways, landscaping, and remodeling of the interior rooms, it has remained true to its original ranch style form. It is a simple space that is perfect for hosting guests without ever feeling too cramped.

Credit: Minette Hand

You enter via the mudroom, which is in the middle of the east side of the house and opens up to the kitchen and living room. With windows on all sides, morning light pours in while drinking a cup of coffee and pulling on boots to go feed the animals. The previous owners were all stewards of the land. Some raised hogs and goats. Now, sheep rotationally graze the pasture. Moving sheep through the pasture brings fertility to the land, helping to regenerate soil, plant, and animal health.

Credit: Minette Hand

Apartment Therapy Survey:

My Style: Modern Ranch

Credit: Minette Hand

Inspiration: Nature’s seasons here in Colorado. Setting our mind and body clock to nature’s rhythm is peculiarly life-affirming.

Credit: Minette Hand

Favorite Element: The 180-degree view from the living room. The living room was an add-on that lets in natural light throughout the entire day. The views of Long’s Peak (a Colorado 14’er in Rocky Mountain National Park), the animals out at pasture (especially while snow falls), and the flames of the fireplace create rejuvenating moments of deep appreciation for the land. This element of home is perfect for recharging depleted batteries.

Credit: Minette Hand

Biggest Challenge: Coming from Charleston, South Carolina, we were spoiled with home decor studios and boutiques. It was most difficult finding adequate help being new in the area. It was in getting to know our neighbors that we were able to connect with expert tradesmen and women. Cultivating community is what helped to bring our visions for this home to life.

Credit: Minette Hand

Proudest DIY: Renovating the barns, and kitchen. Learning to install new flooring, roofing, and building barn doors, were some of the more challenging DIY projects. Thanks to all of the friends that helped us along the way!

Credit: Minette Hand

Finally, what’s your absolute best home secret or decorating advice? Consume things that are viscerally appealing to you. In all cases: home goods, food, clothing, art, music, plants. Conscious consumption always seems to result in timeless style.

Resources

Credit: Minette Hand

ENTRY

Credit: Minette Hand

SMALL DINING ROOM

Credit: Minette Hand

LIVING ROOM

Credit: Minette Hand

KITCHEN

Credit: Minette Hand

FRONT ROOM

Credit: Minette Hand

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Credit: Minette Hand

GUEST BEDROOM

Credit: Minette Hand

BATHROOM (EN SUITE)

Credit: Minette Hand

OFFICE

Thanks Alexandra!

This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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