Desert ranch houses are of many different styles. However, some of the common characteristics are: single story, an open design in the interior, simplicity of decoration, materials that blend with the environment, a fireplace, and an outdoor patio. They also take up a large amount of space.

Desert ranch houses are built so that each room has a special view of the desert. Large windows with a wide overhang of the roof let in plenty of natural light while keeping out the heat. The house is also built in such a way as to take advantage of the wind for cooling effects. Hot days and cool nighttime temperatures must also be accounted for in planning the design of the house. There is usually a winding path that leads to the house, but the activity of the family takes place in the back of the house. The access to this area is usually through large glass sliding doors. Trees and plants native to the area surround the house. Many houses also include a spa.

Construction materials used are native stone, wood, adobe, and concrete blocks. Today, the architecture is a blend of the old and the new, especially on the inside. Rustic aspects of times past are blended with green materials as a conservation practice.

In some places today, people are upgrading their ranch houses by installing energy efficient windows and weatherproofing doors and windows. They are using colors in building materials that blend with the desert and its terrain. Whatever the theme or history of the place, the ranch house is a good way to capture its spirit.