Basic House Design

Four Basic Designs One-Story or Ranch One-and-one-half Two story Split level

One Story Ranch Advantage of one story ranch is it lends itself to indoor-outdoor living. Absence of stairs

Ranch Has low-pitched roof with wide over hanging eaves Easy outside maintenance because of low wall height.

Disadvantages More costly to build than other designs of the same square footage. Requires a larger lot since it is built out, rather then up. Spread out area sometimes cause heating problems for certain areas of the house. A larger roof may mean higher maintenance costs

One and One-Half Story Homes Sometimes called “Cape Cods” Dormers are usually added to provide additions light and ventilation

Advantages Dormers, stairs, and a slightly steeper roof are the principal additional costs. Versatile in that it can be expanded as the “family expands” Heating costs are minimized due to small outside wall and roof area.

Careful Planning Careful planning must be done do allow easy expansion of the home. If expansions are not taken into consideration in the original build, it will reduce the efficacy of the home

Two Story Design More economical to build Can be built with or without a basement Heating and cooling a 2 story house is simple and economical More popular for many reasons (style, space, energy bills)

Disadvantages Stairs may be a problem for older people or handicapped. Does not lend it self to variations in style as well as some other designs

Split Level Homes Was conceived for the sloping or hill lot Does not work on a level lot. Makes efficient use of space Separates sleeping, living, and recreation on different levels

Advantages Little or no hall space More privacy in bedrooms

Basement First level is usually basement with heating and cooling equipment, storage, shop, ect.. Basement usually equals about 40-60% of space occupied.

Intermediate Level Recreation area Ground level so it often has patios or terraces Has the family room, bath, shop, ect.. Living level which has Living, Dinning, Kitchen. Also Ground Level

Sleeping Level Highest level Offers more privacy and quietness Has the bedrooms and bath

Disadvantages More expensive to build then a two story but often cheaper than a ranch. Heating can be a problem if not zoned Can pose a problem with stairs. Only works on a sloping lot