Unveiling the Secrets of the Californian Bungalow in Sydney
Californian Bungalows are a very popular and recognisable architectural style found in Sydney, Australia. If you couldn’t tell by our company name, Bungalow Building Co. we love them!
The Cal Bung became popular in Australia in the 1920s. It was imported from Pasadena, California in 1916 by an Australian Real Estate Agent who assembled it for a show in the Sydney suburb of Rosebery (humble beginings in the suburb of Rosebery where majority of our renovation work resides). It caught on rapidly and was so popular that not many other styles were built in the 1920s.
Californian bungalows are characterised by a number of key features, including:
Single-story construction: Californian bungalows are typically single-storey homes, although some may have a second storey with attic bedrooms.
Wide verandah: A wide verandah is a signature feature of Californian bungalows. It is often wrapped around the front and sides of the house, and it provides a shady and inviting space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Leadlight windows: Leadlight windows were very popular in the early 20th century, and they are often found in Californian bungalows. They add a touch of elegance and charm to the home.
High ceilings: Californian bungalows typically have high ceilings, which gives the rooms a spacious and airy feel.
Open floor plan: Many Californian bungalows have an open floor plan, with the living room, dining room, and kitchen flowing together. This creates a more social and inviting space for entertaining guests.
Timber flooring: Timber flooring is another common feature of Californian bungalows. It adds warmth and character to the home.
In addition to these key features, Californian bungalows in Sydney may have other features such as:
Decorative fireplaces: Many Californian bungalows have decorative fireplaces in the living room and dining room. These fireplaces can be wood-burning or gas-fired, and they add a touch of elegance and charm to the home.
Bay windows: Bay windows are another popular feature of Californian bungalows. They add light and space to the room, and they can also provide stunning views of the surrounding area.
Gabled roofs: Californian bungalows typically have gabled roofs. These roofs are simple and functional, but they can also be quite attractive.
Bungalow gardens: Californian bungalows often have beautiful gardens. These gardens are often landscaped with native Australian plants, and they can provide a lush and relaxing space to enjoy the outdoors.
Californian bungalows are charming, characterful, and functional. However, with a straightforward floor plan of two or maybe three bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and bathroom, we found our homeowners in particular in the suburbs of Rosebery and Mascot are requiring additional rooms, or a larger open plan living to meet their family’s needs. So, they’re keeping the original character in their bungalows front facade but renovating by extending up, out or both!
Join our Facebook Group, Californian Bungalows Sydney to learn more about this architectural beauty.
Californian Bungalow in Cleland Street, Mascot. Renovated by Bungalow Building Co.
