Reviving a 1960 split level exterior remodel is often the most impactful way to honor the era’s design while solving the functional limitations of the original architecture. These homes, iconic for their staggered floor plans and bold geometric lines, were built during a period of post-war optimism and a fascination with modernism. However, the very features that made them stylish—like boxed eaves and minimal overhangs—often lead to water intrusion and outdated aesthetics. A thoughtful remodel focuses on updating these vulnerable areas while preserving the clean, linear feel that defines the style.
Understanding the 1960 Split Level Form
The 1960s split level is defined by its partial-floors, creating a dynamic, multi-level flow that was a departure from the ranch style. This layout typically organizes the home with the garage and entry on the lowest level, the main living and kitchen on the midpoint, and bedrooms upstairs. When planning an exterior remodel, it is crucial to respect this distinct zonation. Altering the rooflines or window configurations without understanding this structure can erase the home’s carefully balanced asymmetry, turning a conversation starter into a generic suburban house.
Roof and Lineage Updates
The roof is the most recognizable feature of a 1960s split level, often featuring low-pitched lines intersecting at sharp angles. An effective remodel might introduce new materials that mimic the original asphalt composition but with enhanced durability and color options. Replacing worn cedar shingles with fiber-cement siding on the gables can provide a crisp, low-maintenance contrast. It is vital to ensure that new roofing planes shed water effectively, addressing the leaks common in aged felt and tar paper installations.
- Box Eaves: Many 1960s homes feature enclosed box eaves, which can be updated with vented soffits to improve attic ventilation and prevent moisture damage.
- Window Geometry: Maintaining the original window proportions is key; replacing single-pane units with modern double-glazed versions in matching frames preserves the aesthetic while improving energy efficiency.
Material Selection and Curb Appeal
Selecting the right materials is the difference between a remodel that enhances the home’s legacy and one that fights against it. The goal is to blend contemporary performance with the tactile feel of the era. Horizontal wood siding was popular in these builds, and using fiber-cement or new engineered wood products can replicate this look with superior resistance to rot and pests. The palette should remain grounded; think greys, beiges, and deep greens that reflect the muted tones of the mid-century landscape.
Modernizing Entryways
The entryway of a split level often presents a challenge due to the angle of the walkout or the drop to the driveway. Remodeling this area is perhaps the most effective way to boost both aesthetics and functionality. Extending the roofline with a modern overhang provides protection and a sleek profile. Upgrading the front door to a model with substantial paneling and geometric glazing can transform the face of the home, acting as a sophisticated anchor for the entire facade.
| Feature | 1960s Original | 2024 Remodel Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Walls | Smooth stucco or aluminum siding | Modern fiber-cement with subtle texture |
| Entry Door | Single-color paneled wood | Mixed-material (wood and metal) with LED integration |
| Garage Door | Smooth steel | Panel-insert design mimicking architectural lines |
Landscape Integration
Split level homes were frequently planted into hillsides to take advantage of the natural terrain. A successful exterior remodel works with the topography rather than fighting it. Retaining walls, layered planting beds, and strategic lighting can soften the hard angles of the structure. Because these homes often have significant elevation changes, lighting is not just for ambiance; it is a safety necessity for navigating steps and facilitating nighttime access to the upper levels.
Structural Integrity and Efficiency
Beneath the aesthetic updates, the true value of a 1960 split level exterior remodel lies in the envelope upgrade. These houses were rarely built with modern insulation standards, leading to high energy bills and uncomfortable rooms. Adding continuous insulation to the exterior walls, particularly at the split level "doghouse" areas, can regulate temperature dramatically. Coupling this with air sealing around the many joints and transitions of the staggered walls will result in a home that is comfortable in all seasons and significantly cheaper to heat.
Ultimately, a 1960 split level exterior remodel is a dialogue between the past and the future. By respecting the architectural grammar of the design—its angles, planes, and material honesty—homeowners can create a residence that feels both timeless and thoroughly contemporary. The result is a house that retains its unique character while performing impeccably for the next 60 years.
