The Bungalow Spirit

During the first two decades of the 20th century the home-and-builder related literature promoted the American bungalow in terms of a unique “Bungalow Spirit.” This spirit consisted of structural and design simplicity, efficient interior layout, adaptability and harmony with out-of-doors. The bungalow was perceived and promoted as a product of India while developing as a popular form of housing primarily in Southern California. Writers characterized the genuine American bungalow as endowed with a distinguishing set of architectural traits. It was essentially a low-slung structure with numerous windows, large porch, natural or low cost materials, projecting roof and exposed support brackets.