Modern house designs focus on minimalism, clean lines and interesting shapes. They introduce sleek, open floor plans. Curvilinear lines and natural materials give them license to be creative. Most of these homes are custom builds, but pre-fab designs are gaining in popularity and showing great promise as a viable and energy-efficient option. With a modern design, architects often opt to combine traditional elements with contemporary design features to create a style that’s unique and timeless. These multi-story homes feature higher ceilings, higher windows and open living spaces – all of which can be built to take advantage of spectacular views. In terms of materials, three are most common: glass, steel, and concrete. These materials give builders the freedom to create unique and creative home designs.Modern House Designs
Country house plans are reminiscent of simpler times and cozy rural lifestyles. They are often one story and feature open floor plans. Also called farmhouse plans, they commonly have a covered front porch for entertaining guests and relaxing on the weekends. Natural materials like cedar shakes, asphalt shingles and wood siding are usually included in the design. These houses are available in a variety of size, style, and floor plan options. One story and two story designs are common in this style. A combination of hip roof and gable roofs are often included. Windows are also an important design feature; double-hung, casement, and picture windows are often used. Country House Plans
Ranch house designs are some of the most popular home styles due to their utility, ease of accessibility, and often large open floor plans. These homes are ideal for single families with few children due to their single-story design. The single-level homes are often inexpensive to construct, heat, and cool. They often feature a low-pitched roof, large windows, an attached garage, and brick or stone exteriors. Windows and doors are usually framed with wood trim to create an inviting atmosphere. Inside, the floor plan is usually open, with minimal interior hallways. Baths, bedrooms, and the living room are typically situated around a central living area. Ranch House Designs
Cape Cod house plans are popular among homeowners due to their warm and inviting character. They feature a steep roofline, dormers, and simple interior layouts. Many of these homes are single-story, although two story designs are also available. These homes are usually painted in bright colors to create an inviting and cheerful atmosphere Cape Cod house designs feature asymmetrical layouts and large, covered front porches. To accommodate the steep roofline, the ceilings throughout the house are usually vaulted. The interiors of these homes are open and feature eat-in kitchens. Bedrooms are usually on the main floor with a central stairs to the attic.Cape Cod House Plans
Craftsman house plans are a popular design due to their low-maintenance construction and use of natural materials. The exteriors and interiors of these homes feature natural wood, cedar shakes, and stone accents. The low-pitched roofs are often covered with cedar shakes or asphalt shingles. Windows are usually large and framed with wood. These homes feature a central great room, with bedrooms and bathrooms on either side of the main living space. A stairway typically leads to an attic or dormers for extra living space. Cottage-style craftsman house plans are also available and feature a wall of windows and wide, inviting front porches.Craftsman House Plans
Mediterranean house plans are known for their distinctive arched doorways and windows, two-story construction, and cream stucco exteriors. These homes often feature red or tiled roofs, stone accents, and terracotta floors. U- and V-shaped designs are common in this style. Windows are large and framed in dark woods. The floor plan is usually open with a central great room and kitchen space. Stairwells often lead to the second floor, which may feature bedrooms, bathrooms, and terraces. Exterior options vary depending on the country the home is built in. Mediterranean House Plans
Traditional house plans are classic designs with a timeless appeal. These homes feature symmetrical façades, dormers, and double-hung windows. They are usually two story buildings and feature gable or gambrel roofs. They can come in a variety of sizes, from small bungalows to estate-style mansions. Interior and exterior features of traditional homes depend on the era and region in which they are built. These homes usually feature formal dining and living rooms, libraries, and study. Inside, traditional houses may feature French doors, corbels, crown moldings, and trim. Traditional House Plans
Queen Anne house plans are distinct from traditional English Tudor house plans due to the bright and intricate decorations. These homes feature asymmetrical shapes and often include towers, balconies, and turrets. They are two story structures with steep rooflines, and usually feature Victorian details, like stained glass windows and bay windows. The interior often features a grand staircase, lots of built-in storage spaces, and elaborate trim and detailing. They usually feature a central living room, formal dining room, and kitchens (often located in the back of the house). Bedrooms, bathrooms, and sewing rooms are typically located on the second floor. Queen Anne House Plans
Two-Story house plans are the most common type of home in the United States. These homes can be built in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. They are typically two-story structures, although there are also one-story options available. Their floor plans typically feature a central living space and attached kitchens, dining rooms, and bedrooms on either side. They are often built with wood, brick, and stone exteriors. Windows and doors are often framed with wood and natural stone accents are sometimes included as well. Two-Story House Plans
Colonial house plans are historically based on the designs of earlier American homes. They feature a rectangular or square shaped footprint and symmetrical façade. These homes usually feature two- or three-story construction, with center and side halls located on the main floor. They often feature dormers on the roof and windows on either side of the entry. Inside, these homes usually feature open floor plans and a central fireplace. Rooms are often organized in a symmetrical manner, with the entrance in the center and bedrooms on either side. Upstairs, rooms are usually organized around a central hallway. Stairs may lead up to dormers, attics, or an additional bedroom. Colonial House Plans