When it comes to building your dream home, choosing the right floor plan is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, the layout and design of your home can significantly impact your lifestyle and comfort. One of the most common choices for homeowners is between 1-story and 2-story homes. Both have unique advantages, and finding the perfect plan for your needs can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for the best-selling and most popular house plans, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 1-story and 2-story plans to help guide you in your journey to building your perfect home.
Why Choose a 1-Story Home?
A 1-story home offers convenience and ease, particularly for those with young children, elderly family members, or anyone who prefers not to navigate stairs. These homes typically have a single level, making them more accessible and easier to maintain.
Benefits of 1-Story Homes
- Accessibility: One of the greatest benefits of a 1-story home is accessibility. No stairs means that all rooms are accessible to everyone, making it ideal for people with mobility issues or aging in place.
- Open Floor Plan: 1-story homes often have open floor plans, with large spaces for family rooms, kitchens, and dining areas. This makes them perfect for social gatherings and family interactions.
- Easier Maintenance: With no stairs to worry about, cleaning and maintaining a 1-story home can be more straightforward and less physically demanding.
- Lower Cost: Typically, 1-story homes cost less to build and maintain, as they use fewer building materials and have simpler construction.
Best-Selling 1-Story Home Plans
Here are some of the most popular 1-story house plans that have been favorites among homeowners:
1. The Open-Concept Ranch
- Size: 1,500 – 2,000 square feet
- Features: The Open-Concept Ranch is a perfect family home, combining a spacious living area with a large kitchen and dining room. It typically features 3 to 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an attached garage. This plan is great for those who enjoy having everything on one floor with a large, expansive feel.
2. The Cottage Bungalow
- Size: 1,200 – 1,800 square feet
- Features: A cozy home ideal for small families or couples, this bungalow includes a charming front porch, 2-3 bedrooms, and a cozy living room. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, charming home with an inviting exterior.
3. The Modern Farmhouse
- Size: 1,800 – 2,500 square feet
- Features: Combining traditional farmhouse charm with contemporary elements, this home includes open living spaces, wide porches, and large windows for plenty of natural light. It typically features 3-4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with a spacious kitchen and living area for modern living.
Why Choose a 2-Story Home?
A 2-story home offers a traditional and often more expansive layout, with distinct separation of spaces. These homes are ideal for those looking for more space or privacy between bedrooms and living areas.
Benefits of 2-Story Homes
- More Space: The most obvious advantage of a 2-story home is the extra space. With the ability to build upwards, you can often enjoy more square footage without taking up more land.
- Separation of Spaces: A 2-story design allows for distinct zones—commonly with the living areas on the ground floor and private sleeping quarters (bedrooms) on the second floor. This offers privacy and noise reduction for the family.
- Increased Curb Appeal: 2-story homes often have a commanding presence that can enhance your property’s curb appeal. With taller structures, a 2-story home often stands out with dramatic rooflines and more design flexibility.
- Great Views: A second story often offers better views and more natural light. You can enjoy scenic vistas from your bedroom or other spaces on the upper floor.
Best-Selling 2-Story Home Plans
If you’re leaning towards a 2-story home, here are some of the top-selling plans to consider:
1. The Classic Colonial
- Size: 2,500 – 3,500 square feet
- Features: The Colonial is a traditional design that features a formal exterior with symmetrical windows and a steep roofline. Inside, you’ll find a large kitchen, formal dining room, and spacious family room. The upper floor often includes 4-5 bedrooms, offering ample space for larger families.
2. The Modern 2-Story
- Size: 2,000 – 3,000 square feet
- Features: A blend of clean lines and functionality, the Modern 2-Story plan features an open-concept layout with a large kitchen island and a seamless transition from the kitchen to the living and dining areas. It also includes 4 bedrooms and a dedicated office space. The upper level offers privacy with spacious bedrooms and bathrooms.
3. The Craftsman Home
- Size: 2,000 – 3,000 square feet
- Features: The Craftsman-style 2-story home is characterized by its wide front porch, exposed rafters, and detailed woodwork. This plan often includes an open kitchen, large living spaces, and 3-4 bedrooms on the second floor. It’s a great option for those who want a timeless and inviting design.
4. The Mediterranean Villa
- Size: 3,000 – 4,000 square feet
- Features: Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, this home plan offers expansive open spaces, a grand entrance, and elegant touches like arched doorways and tile roofing. With 4 or more bedrooms, this home is perfect for those seeking luxury and elegance.
Choosing Between a 1-Story and 2-Story Home
The choice between a 1-story and a 2-story home ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value convenience, accessibility, and easy maintenance, a 1-story home might be the best option. On the other hand, if you need more space, want distinct areas for privacy, or enjoy the idea of multiple floors, a 2-story home could be a better fit.
FAQ:
1. What’s the average cost difference between a 1-story and 2-story home?
- Generally, 2-story homes may cost more due to the additional construction materials, but they can be more cost-effective on a per-square-foot basis. Costs vary depending on location, size, and features.
2. Which is better for a growing family, a 1-story or 2-story home?
- A 2-story home can be better for a growing family as it provides more space, especially with separate sleeping areas. However, if accessibility is important, a 1-story home may be more suitable.
3. Do 2-story homes require more maintenance than 1-story homes?
- Yes, 2-story homes may require more exterior maintenance, such as roof upkeep or cleaning windows on the second floor, but this depends on the materials used and design.
Summary
When deciding between a 1-story and 2-story home, consider your personal preferences, lifestyle, and the size of your family. A 1-story home offers accessibility, open spaces, and easy maintenance, while a 2-story home offers more space, privacy, and design options. Both home types come in various styles, ranging from modern to traditional, and can accommodate a variety of needs.
Whether you’re drawn to the spacious ranch-style 1-story home or the elegant Colonial 2-story design, choosing the best-selling and most popular house plans can bring you one step closer to your dream home.