Fully Attached Garages

During the 1950s, garages were becoming fully encompassed into to the main house. The popular 1950s Ranch style house was typically constructed as one unit of house and garage. Initially, the houses were rectangular in shape, with the garage situated at one end. Late 1950s and 1960s Ranch style houses were often constructed with a garage ell extending off the front of the structure.

Many 1950s garages were fully attached with the garage slightly stepped back from the main façade, emphasizing it as having a separate function than the house. Also note the windows along the overhead door. This became quite common during the 1950s. Also notice how the garage doors have become wider.

Stepped Back Garages: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André

The image below demonstrates the fully encompassed garage. This structure was built around 1950, and the small size of the garage door reflects that earlier date.

Fully Encompassed Garage: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André

The image below illustrates a late 1950s Ranch style house with a garage ell.

Garage Ell: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André