Explore 73+ Inspiring Three Decker House Plan Top Choices Of Architects

House designs of the 19th and early 20th centuries sought to provide comfortable and elegant housing while meeting the practical needs of multiple families who could afford to share and build. In this way, the three-decker house appeared: a compound of three homes on the same or adjacent lots, with a shared roof and two stories. With the proliferation of the automobile and improved zoning laws at the turn of the twentieth century, the three-decker took off as an economic solution for families in need of more than one housing unit and created a distinctive and much adopted icon of this era.

Typically, a three-decker house had two stories and a shared roof, but they could also be configured as townhouses, row homes, and duplexes, depending on the needs of the neighborhood. Most commonly, 3-decker designs allowed for a central staircase with two flats, or three flats with an individual entrance. The outside was usually constructed of wood, and the floors of the building were made with hardwood, tile or linoleum.

The traditional three-decker house also featured some of the most advanced home features available in the early 20th century. Gas stoves were common, as were indoor plumbing and large interior kitchens. They often included a full basement, which could be used for laundry, storage, and a recreation space.

Modern three-decker designs offer a variety of features and finishes not found in the original 19th century models. Today, they are constructed with a variety of materials, including brick, stucco, and wood. Contemporary designs often incorporate energy efficient features, such as skylights or solar hot water systems.

The most common three-decker designs are still two-story homes, but one-story designs have also become popular, allowing for a much larger living space without compromising living efficiency. Some modern three-decker designs include an attached garage, while others offer a separate garage or a two-car garage.

Three-deckers are still popular with homeowners looking for a tax-efficient housing solution for multiple families. Three-deckers also offer the potential for a dramatic increase in real estate value as they can be converted into condominiums or townhouses.

In addition, three-deckers can be an ideal housing solution for families of different generations, as they provide a comfortable living space that is large enough to accommodate multiple families.

When planning a three-decker house plan, it is important to consider the space available and the family’s needs. Living efficiency is key - the house should be optimized to save energy, such as using walls or windows to direct sunlight or air into the house.

To maximize comfort and convenience, it is also important to consider size. Larger homes or deckers can be more comfortable, but they can also be less energy efficient. For those looking to save on energy costs, smaller three-deckers may be more suitable.

When looking for a 3-Decker home plan, consider the unit type and size. Depending on the space, a single unit may suffice or may require two or three units. A two-unit house plan is usually a unit combined with either a studio, a single bedroom, or two bedrooms, while a three-unit plan may require two bedrooms and a living area.

Also take into account the degree of common amenities. While the traditional three-decker had a limited number of common amenities, three-deckers today can come with amenities like rooftop decks, private patios and outdoor entertaining areas.

For those considering purchasing or building a three-decker, "The New England Three-Decker: Home Plans, Design Ideas and Construction" by Effective Reading is a great resource. In this comprehensive guide, author Doug Scott provides detailed plans and design ideas for both two- and three-unit dwellings, along with helpful tips and tricks for creating a successful layout.

Scott also provides helpful advice on selecting the proper materials for exterior walls, roofing, windows, and insulation, alongside a list of potential local contractors available to assist in the building process.

Constructing a three-decker home is a labor of love! The key is to create a design that is both attractive and efficient. The design should also be planned for the size of the lot and the desired layout, with attention to traffic flow and useful layout features.

If you are considering refurbishing a three-decker that is already in existence, consider working with a remodeler or contractor who specializes in three-decker projects. This will ensure that all of your planning is done with the utmost attention to detail and with the goal of creating the most attractive and efficient three-decker home possible.

For those who are looking to create a condo lifestyle, a three-decker home can provide a great solution. With an open floor plan, two- and three-unit floor plans are often ideal for condo-style living, providing plenty of room for entertaining and relaxing while remaining compact enough for efficient energy consumption and airflow.

To get the most out of a three-decker condo design, be sure to include plenty of natural and artificial lighting, as well as a good noise and fire barrier between the floors. Also, when possible, try to create two separate units with separate entrances, as this can be beneficial to future tenants should you desire to rent your condo out to multiple parties.

Whether you plan to build or buy a three-decker home, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best possible result. First, consider the lot size and the family's lifestyle. This will help to determine what type of three-decker home will be best suited for your needs.

If you are building the three-decker yourself, be sure to do your research. Utilize resources like books, websites, and local experts to learn about building codes, home design, and construction best practices. This will ensure that your finished project meets your expectations and is of the highest quality.

When designing a three-decker home, one of the most important elements is the size of the unit or units. Be sure to plan for adult and child activities and find the best fit for your family's needs. Be sure to take into account traffic flow, as this can become a problem in such a small space.

When it comes to visuals, be sure to pay attention to the exterior of the building. Select colors, designs, and materials that will compliment the neighborhood and attract potential tenants. For three-decker units that will remain private family homes, you can incorporate a variety of landscaping and design elements to make the home as welcoming and comfortable as possible.