Central Oregon homes come in a wide range of styles. From historic Craftsman bungalows near downtown Bend to sleek contemporary homes designed around Cascade views, the region’s architecture reflects both its history and evolving lifestyle.
But what makes a Craftsman a Craftsman? How is a ranch style different from a farmhouse? And what does “Northwest contemporary” mean? Here’s a look at some of the architectural styles found throughout Central Oregon.
Craftsman
Perhaps no style is more closely tied to Bend’s early residential history than the C raftsman. These homes typically feature low-pitched roofs, wide front porches, exposed rafter tails, tapered columns and natural materials such as wood and stone. Interiors often emphasize craftsmanship and built-in details. Many of Bend’s historic neighborhoods, particularly Old Bend, feature classic examples.
Ranch
Simple, practical and highly livable, the ranch became popular in the mid-20th century and remains common throughout Central Oregon. Typically single-story, ranch homes emphasize horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, attached garages and connections between living spaces and the yard. Their straightforward layouts remain well suited to modern living.
Northwest contemporary
Northwest contemporary may be the architectural style most at home in Central Oregon. These homes combine clean lines with exposed timber, wood finishes, gable or shed roofs, large windows and natural materials. Rather than competing with the landscape, the architecture tends to frame it. Local architects have described the style as a modern interpretation of Central Oregon’s Craftsman and ranch roots.
Mountain modern
Think of the traditional mountain lodge with less rustic ornamentation and more glass, cleaner lines and contemporary finishes. Mountain modern homes commonly incorporate wood, stone, steel and expansive windows, with open floor plans designed to maximize natural light and outdoor views. The style is especially common in Tetherow, Broken Top, Sunriver and Black Butte Ranch.
Modern farmhouse
The modern farmhouse gives familiar rural elements a cleaner, contemporary interpretation. Gabled rooflines, covered porches, board-and-batten siding and metal roofing are paired with large windows, open interiors and modern finishes. The style has become increasingly popular in newer construction throughout Bend, Sisters and Redmond.
Mid-century modern
Defined by simplicity and a strong relationship with the outdoors, mid-century modern homes typically feature clean horizontal lines, large windows, open floor plans and minimal ornamentation. Central Oregon examples can be found in older neighborhoods as well as newer homes that reinterpret the style. Its emphasis on natural light and indoor-outdoor living makes it particularly suited to the region.
Farmhouse
Traditional farmhouses are simpler and more utilitarian than their modern counterparts. They generally feature straightforward rectangular forms, pitched roofs, porches and practical floor plans. Throughout Central Oregon, the style is particularly fitting in rural and agricultural areas around Tumalo, Sisters, Redmond and Prineville.
Contemporary
Contemporary architecture is less about following a historical formula and more about responding to how people live today. Clean geometric forms, expansive glass, open interiors and restrained materials are common characteristics. In Central Oregon, contemporary homes often take advantage of views, natural light and the surrounding landscape.
Architecture that reflects the landscape
While the styles differ, Central Oregon homes share a few common threads. Natural materials, abundant windows, outdoor living spaces and connections to the landscape appear again and again. The region has evolved from traditional lodge and craftsman designs toward modern and contemporary homes while maintaining those regional influences.
That may be the defining characteristic of Central Oregon architecture: the styles continue to change, but the landscape remains the inspiration.
Low:
61563 Newberry Drive, Bend
3 bed, 2 bath, 1,503 square feet, .47 acres lot
Built in 1976
$665,000
Listed by Matt McManus of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters
Medium:
61000 Jennings Road, Bend
4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2,408 square feet, 4.76 acres lot
Built in 1990
$1,136,000
Listed by Vincent Bishop of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters
High:
3028 NW Underhill Place, Bend
4 bed, 3 bath, 4,010 square feet, .85 acres lot
Built in 1999
$1,349,900
Listed by Melanie Maitre of Engel & Völkers Bend | Sisters
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