The 1960s brought us a housing boom that filled suburban neighborhoods with sturdy brick ranch homes. These single story gems were built for practicality and comfort, featuring clean lines and functional layouts that families loved. But let’s be honest – after decades, many of these homes look tired and outdated from the street.
Here’s the good news: a smart exterior makeover can completely change how your ranch home looks and feels. I’m going to show you proven ways to boost your curb appeal and increase your property value without breaking the bank. You’ll learn about modern updates that honor your home’s classic character while making it stand out for all the right reasons.
I’ve helped dozens of homeowners change their ranch exteriors, and I know exactly what works. Trust me, these changes will make your neighbors take notice.
Why Choose A 60’s Brick Ranch Exterior Makeover?
Updating your ranch home’s exterior is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Let me tell you something that might surprise you. Your 1960s brick ranch home sits on a goldmine of potential.
I see it all the time. Homeowners walk past their front door every day, thinking their home looks fine. But here’s what I know from years of experience: small changes make huge differences.
Think about it this way. When someone drives down your street, what do they notice first? Your home’s exterior tells the whole story before anyone steps inside.
The math is simple. A well planned exterior update can return 60-80% of your investment when you sell. But here’s the better part. You get to enjoy the benefits right now.
Your neighbors will start asking questions. Real estate agents will use your home as a comparison point. Most importantly, you’ll feel proud pulling into your driveway again.
I’ve watched ranch homes go from overlooked to outstanding with the right approach. The brick foundation gives you strength. The simple roofline keeps costs down. These homes were built to last, and now it’s time to make them shine.
Ready to see what’s possible?
Best 60’s Brick Ranch Exterior Makeover Ideas
Here are seven proven ways I help homeowners turn their ranch homes into neighborhood showstoppers.
Update With Fresh Exterior Paint
Your trim and siding need attention first. I always start here because paint gives you the biggest visual impact for your dollar.
White trim makes brick pop. It’s clean and timeless. But don’t stop there. Consider painting your front door a bold color like navy blue or forest green. This small change creates a focal point that draws the eye.
The garage door matters too. Most people forget about it, but it covers a huge portion of your front view. A fresh coat in the same color as your trim ties everything together.
Add Modern Siding Accents
Wait. Before you worry about covering all that beautiful brick, let me explain.
I’m talking about strategic accents. Board and batten siding on gables adds texture without hiding your brick foundation. Horizontal siding above windows creates depth and interest.
Choose colors that complement your brick tone. Gray works with red brick. Cream pairs well with brown brick. The goal is balance, not competition.
Upgrade The Front Porch Or Entryway
Your front entry tells visitors what to expect inside. I see too many ranch homes with tiny stoops that feel unwelcoming.
Build it bigger if you can. Even adding 2 feet in each direction makes a huge difference. Install columns for support and style. Choose materials that match your home’s character.
Can’t expand? Focus on what you have. New railings, better steps, and a quality front door change even small entries.
Refresh Windows And Shutters
Here’s something most homeowners miss. Your windows frame your entire home’s appearance.
Remove shutters that don’t work. Those tiny decorative shutters that couldn’t possibly cover your windows? They make your home look fake. Either install properly sized shutters or skip them completely.
Window boxes add charm without major construction. Plant them with seasonal flowers or evergreen shrubs for year round appeal.
Enhance The Roofline
Ranch homes have simple rooflines. That’s both good and challenging.
I like adding architectural interest with dormers when budgets allow. They break up long rooflines and add character. Smaller changes work too.
New gutters in a contrasting color define your roofline. Decorative brackets under eaves add craftsman style. These details cost less but deliver professional results.
Improve Landscaping Around The Ranch
Your yard should complement your home’s horizontal lines. I design landscapes that enhance rather than fight this natural flow.
Foundation plantings soften hard edges. Use evergreen shrubs for structure and seasonal flowers for color. Keep plants proportional to your home’s scale.
Create depth with layered plantings. Tall shrubs in back, medium plants in middle, low groundcover in front. This simple formula works every time.
Modern Outdoor Lighting
Good lighting extends your curb appeal into evening hours. Most ranch homes have inadequate front lighting.
Start with your entryway. Wall sconces on either side of your front door provide balanced illumination. Choose fixtures that match your home’s style.
Path lighting guides visitors safely to your door. Landscape lighting highlights your best features after dark. These investments pay off in both beauty and security.
Ready to pick your first project?
Popular Design Styles For Brick Ranch Makeovers
These three design approaches work perfectly with your ranch home’s natural strengths.
Mid Century Modern Twist
Your 1960s ranch was born in the mid century era. Why not celebrate that history?
I love working with the clean lines that are already there. Flat roofs and geometric shapes define this style. Your ranch gives you the perfect starting point.
Think horizontal emphasis. Long planters under windows. Wide steps leading to your front door. Materials like steel and glass that complement your brick.
But here’s the key. Don’t go overboard trying to recreate a museum piece. Pick two or three mid century elements and do them well.
Large windows were huge in this era. If you can enlarge your existing windows, the conversion is remarkable. Floor to ceiling windows in living areas connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
Color palettes stay neutral with pops of bold accent colors. Orange front doors were popular then and work great now.
Modern Farmhouse Look
Stop right there. I know what you’re thinking. Farmhouse and brick ranch don’t seem to match.
Trust me on this one. The combination creates something special that pure farmhouse styles can’t achieve.
Your brick provides the rustic foundation. I add board and batten siding on gables and upper walls. White or cream colors keep it fresh and clean.
Metal roofing works beautifully on ranch homes. It adds farmhouse character while handling your home’s low slope. Choose standing seam in charcoal or dark green.
Wraparound porches change everything. Even a partial wrap around your front corner creates that farmhouse feel. Add simple columns and you’re there.
Keep landscaping simple. Boxwood hedges. Hydrangeas by the porch. A vegetable garden visible from the street if you have space.
Contemporary Ranch Conversion
This style takes your ranch into the future. I focus on clean materials and bold contrasts.
Stucco and steel pair beautifully with existing brick. Use stucco on upper walls and steel for accent elements. The mix of textures creates visual interest without chaos.
Large format materials work best. Instead of small decorative elements, think big panels and wide trim boards. This approach honors your ranch’s simple geometry.
Flat roofs on additions maintain the horizontal emphasis. Shed roofs work too if you need more slope for drainage.
Color schemes stay monochromatic. Whites, grays, and blacks let your brick be the star. A single accent color on the front door adds personality.
Landscaping becomes architectural. Ornamental grasses in geometric planters. Concrete walkways with clean edges. Every element supports the contemporary theme.
Which style speaks to you?
Budget Friendly 60’s Brick Ranch Exterior Makeover Tips
You don’t need thousands of dollars to make your ranch home look amazing.
Small changes create big results. I’ve seen $500 makeovers that look like $5,000 renovations.
DIY Painting Projects
Front door first. One weekend, under $50. Choose navy blue or forest green against your brick.
Garage doors cover huge visual space. Fresh paint here changes your entire street view.
White trim makes brick look crisp. Don’t skip prep work though. Sand, prime, then paint.
Pro tip: Paint your mailbox post the same color as your front door. This ties everything together.
Affordable Landscaping Upgrades
Start with what you have. Trim overgrown shrubs. Edge beds with a sharp spade. Clean lines cost nothing.
Fresh mulch works magic. Dark brown or black makes colors pop. Spread it 2-3 inches thick.
Plant in odd numbers. Three shrubs look better than four. Annual flowers give budget friendly color.
Pressure wash everything. Clean surfaces look like new surfaces.
Simple Hardware Changes For Doors And Windows
Replace your front door handle. Oil rubbed bronze or matte black looks modern. Takes minutes to install.
Large, modern house numbers mounted on brick create a custom look.
New storm door handles cost $20 but look professional. Match all visible hardware.
A $75 porch light beats a $15 builder light every time. Choose something proportional to your door.
Ready to start your weekend project?
Budget Friendly Tips
Paint Projects:
- Paint front door in navy blue or forest green
- Refresh garage door with matching trim color
- Use white trim to make brick pop
- Match mailbox post color to front door
- Remove faded shutters or paint them properly
Landscaping Upgrades:
- Trim overgrown shrubs to proper size
- Add fresh dark mulch 2-3 inches thick
- Plant flowers in odd numbered groups
- Edge garden beds with sharp, clean lines
- Pressure wash walkways and driveway
Hardware Changes:
- Install new front door handle in oil rubbed bronze
- Mount large house numbers directly on brick
- Replace storm door handles for $20
- Upgrade porch light fixture to $75 model
- Match all visible hardware finishes
Quick Wins Under $100:
- Fresh door mat in coordinating colors
- Clean or replace outdoor light bulbs
- Install new electrical outlet covers
- Add seasonal planters by entrance
- Power wash entire front exterior
Conclusion
Your 1960s brick ranch home has everything it needs to become the standout house on your block. The solid brick foundation gives you character that newer homes simply can’t match. When you combine that vintage charm with smart modern updates, magic happens.
I’ve watched homeowners fall back in love with their ranch homes after simple makeovers. Fresh paint, better landscaping, and updated hardware create results that surprise everyone. The best part? You don’t need to choose between honoring your home’s history and making it feel current.
Start with one small project this weekend. Pick something from our budget friendly list and see how good it feels to improve your home. Your ranch house is ready for its moment to shine again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A 60’s Brick Ranch Exterior Makeover Cost?
Basic updates like paint and landscaping run $500-2,000 for DIY projects. Professional renovations with siding, windows, and porches typically cost $15,000-40,000 depending on your home’s size and chosen materials.
Can I Paint Over The Original Brick On My Ranch Home?
Yes, you can paint brick, but I recommend keeping it natural when possible. If you do paint, use high-quality masonry paint and primer designed for brick surfaces to ensure proper adhesion and longevity.
What’s The Best Color Scheme For A 1960s Ranch House?
White or cream trim with your natural brick creates a timeless look. Add a bold front door in navy, forest green, or charcoal for contrast and personality.
Should I Remove The Existing Shutters On My Ranch Home?
Remove shutters that are too small to cover your windows or in poor condition. Properly sized, functional shutters enhance your home’s appearance, but fake decorative ones make it look cheap.
How Long Does An Exterior Ranch Makeover Take To Complete?
DIY weekend projects like painting and landscaping take 2-4 weekends. Professional renovations involving structural changes, siding, or roofing typically require 2-6 weeks depending on scope and weather conditions.
