The Drawing Board

There are some architectural styles that stand the test of time. Ranch house plans is one of those styles. Made popular in the 1950’s, the flexibility of this iconic design style allows it to span from traditional to modern in appearance with floor plans ranging from open and contemporary to formal with clearly defined spaces.

While a ranch-style house plan can be versatile there are classic characteristics that provide some definition. Ranch floor plans tend to be single story designs with plenty of patio space and lower pitched gable roofs. Exterior materials used range from lap...

On the rise this summer is the search for modern cottage design. In the past, the cottage house plan was typically a small house plan without an attached garage. But today’s home plan buyers are looking for a fresh twist on this staple architectural style. Larger floor plans and attached garages are a few of the newer trends.

The allure of the cottage house plan may be the casual floor plan layouts or the exteriors which can easily be blended with other favorites such as farmhouse or Craftsman styles. A cottage design...

Over the last few years the desire for hillside house plans has skyrocketed. With more subdivisions and city growth occurring in hillier terrain or those building on rural property looking to get the most of your lots views – homes with walk-out basements are becoming increasingly popular.

Home designs with walk-out basements come in a variety of sizes and styles. Before we dive into some of our favorite house plans with daylight basements let’s take a look at the advantages of a walk-out basement floor plan.

While construction may be tricky don’t let this scare you. By...