Mid Century Ranch Modernization in Phoenix & Scottsdale
Preserving the Charm. Elevating the Livability.
Phoenix and Scottsdale are filled with ranch-style homes built during the post-war boom of the 1950s, 60s, and early 70s—homes with solid bones, generous lots, and unpretentious charm. At Homework Remodels, we specialize in helping homeowners update these classic Arizona homes with a process we call Mid Century Ranch Modernization.
Whether you live in Central Phoenix, Ahwatukee, North Mesa, Tempe’s Broadmor, or South Scottsdale, we help you make your home more functional, beautiful, and reflective of your lifestyle—without erasing the character that makes it special.
What Is Mid Century Ranch Modernization?
Mid Century Ranch Modernization is our respectful approach to remodeling homes built between the 1940s and 1970s. These homes may not be full-blown architectural icons, but they offer tremendous potential with:
- Simple rooflines
- Horizontal profiles
- Functional layouts
- Large picture windows
- Deep front setbacks and patios
We modernize these homes by improving:
- Kitchen layouts and cabinetry
- Bathroom comfort and accessibility
- Indoor/outdoor connections
- Energy efficiency and lighting
- Flow and function, often by removing load-bearing walls
But we do it without stripping away the soul of the home.
The Mid-Century Modernization Philosophy
We coined the term “Mid-Century Modernization” to describe our design philosophy: it blends architectural sensitivity with design-forward renovation for classic homes like the Arizona ranch. These homes aren’t defined by luxury but by livability. And with the right remodeling partner, they can become radiant reflections of your modern lifestyle.
Instead of overwriting a home’s original charm, we:
- Celebrate proportion and scale
- Incorporate era-appropriate finishes with modern performance
- Upgrade mechanicals and lighting for today’s needs
- Use natural light, new layouts, and improved circulation
Bringing Modern Function to Classic Forms
Mid century ranch homes offer a wonderful canvas for upgrades that respect the original design while adding necessary amenities. We help bring each home up to current standards without compromising its spirit.
Some examples include:
- Installing smart home technology while keeping wiring concealed
- Updating HVAC systems with ductwork routed through attic or floor cavities
- Matching new windows to existing sightlines while improving energy ratings
- Refreshing original stonework or concrete floors rather than covering them
- Using flat-panel cabinetry, brass or matte black finishes, and integrated appliances
These solutions enhance value, comfort, and longevity while reinforcing the home’s character.
Why Mid Century Ranch Homes Deserve a Thoughtful Remodel
Many Arizona homeowners love the neighborhoods, affordability, and quiet charm of their mid century ranch homes. But these houses often come with outdated:
- Kitchens with poor storage and awkward access
- Bathrooms that feel cramped or dim
- Low ceilings and disconnected rooms
- Old plumbing and electrical systems
- Inefficient HVAC or single-pane windows
Instead of gutting the home and starting over, our design-build approach respects what works and reimagines what doesn’t. These homes have inherent simplicity, which makes them ideal for dramatic yet tasteful transformations.
Real Results from Mid Century Ranch Modernization
While your ranch home may not have clerestory windows or tongue-and-groove ceilings, it can still shine with smart updates. Here’s how:
- Kitchen Expansion + Island Addition:
Turn a compartmentalized galley into an open gathering space, blending mid-century cabinetry with quartz counters and bold tile. - Open Concept Layouts:
Remove a wall between the kitchen, dining, and family room for better flow and light, while keeping beam lines and ceiling planes cohesive. - Primary Suite Upgrades:
Expand a modest bedroom + bath combo into a luxurious retreat with storage, lighting, and function. Think integrated closets, new skylights, and spa-inspired showers. - Laundry & Mudroom Conversions:
Reclaim underused carport or garage zones to add drop zones, hobby rooms, or clean-lined laundry spaces. - Patio Enhancements:
Create seamless transitions from living areas to shaded outdoor living. Update block walls, pour new slabs, and install glass sliders for uninterrupted views. - Landscaping & Outdoor Zones:
We complement your remodeled ranch with updated landscaping—adding native shade trees, clean gravel borders, mid-century concrete pads, and xeriscape-friendly plantings. - Garage Upgrades:
From insulated garage doors to custom-built storage cabinetry and home workshop zones, we improve both function and aesthetics.
Where We Remodel Mid Century Ranch Homes
Our team has modernized homes throughout the Valley, including:
Phoenix Neighborhoods:
- North Central Phoenix (Royal Palm, Sun View Estates)
- Madison School District neighborhoods
- Paradise Gardens and Lookout Mountain area
Tempe:
- Broadmor
- Hughes Acres
- Cavalier Hills
Mesa:
- Sherwood Mesa
- Alta Mesa (original ranch-style builds)
- Historic West Mesa homes
Ahwatukee:
- Classic ranch models from the 70s and early 80s, with good potential for open layouts
Scottsdale:
- Village Grove
- Hy-View
- Sands East
▶️ Explore Our Mid Century Modern Hub Page »
How Mid Century Ranch Modernization Differs from Trendy Renovation
| Homework Remodels’ Approach | Generic Renovation |
| Honors original scale and layout | Imposes generic builder-grade updates |
| Preserves exterior lines and curb appeal | Alters character without cohesion |
| Thoughtful material choices | Trend-driven surface changes |
| Adds lasting value and comfort | Short-term resale focus |
| Design build collaboration | Fragmented trades and miscommunication |
We’re not chasing trends—we’re building lasting solutions.
What to Expect with Our Design Build Process
- Personalized Consultation
We meet in your home to understand its layout, bones, and potential - Design Planning
Our team creates a remodeling concept that balances style, comfort, and structural integrity - Preconstruction Details
We finalize drawings, materials, and budgets with full transparency - Efficient Construction
Your project is completed by vetted professionals with high craftsmanship standards - Final Review and Walkthrough
You move forward confidently, with your remodeled ranch home ready to serve for decades to come
▶️ What to Expect at Your First Consultation »
The Value of Working with Homework Remodels vs. DIY
Mid-Century homes may look simple, but remodeling them is anything but. Homeowners often face:
- Structural challenges (vaulted roofs, outdated plumbing/electrical)
- Material sourcing issues for period-appropriate upgrades
- Zoning constraints or historic overlays in neighborhoods like Marlen Grove
- Difficulty maintaining design consistency
- DIY projects take forever to complete
Our design-build team handles every step—from planning and permitting to design and construction—with the care your home deserves.
More to see…
- As Featured on Modern Phoenix
- Mid-century ranch Modernization
- Mid-Century Modern Ranch Style
- Mid-Century Modern home Remodeling
- Mid-Century Transformations in Phoenix & Scottsdale
Why Choose Homework Remodels?
- We know where to preserve vs. upgrade
- We handle load-bearing wall removal with safety and permits
- We plan updates that blend into your home’s original lines
- We save you time, guesswork, and stress
- We are certified, award-winning remodelers with deep knowledge of Arizona home styles
▶️ Why Choose Homework Remodels »
▶️ See Client Testimonials »
Let’s Talk About Your Ranch-Style Home
Your 1950s or 60s home has more to give—it just needs the right remodeling partner. Let’s collaborate to create a space that’s beautiful, functional, and future-ready.