Original bungalow plans were simple in nature while still having an air of formality about them. Traditionally, the American bungalow is a one (to one and a half) story structure with the narrow side of the home oriented at the street. The half to full front porch identifies the main entry to the home.

Aesthetically, the bungalow is identified by large overhangs, lower pitched roofs, exposed eaves, roof brackets and multiple siding materials. The porch column bases anchor the home to the ground using such varied materials as indigenous rock, brick, stucco, or wood.