Building your dream home can be an exciting but daunting task. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make when constructing your house is selecting the right house plan style. With numerous options available, choosing the right style for your new home can be a challenging task. In this article, we will explore the top 5 most popular house plan styles and their unique features, advantages, and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision.
The Top 5 Most Popular House Plan Styles
- Ranch House Plan
The Ranch style house plan is one of the most popular house plans in America. The style first gained popularity in the 1950s, and it continues to be a favorite for many homeowners. Some of its unique features include:
- Single-story
- Low-pitched roof
- Open floor plan
- Large windows
- Attached garage
- Easy to maintain
- Ideal for those who prefer one-floor living
Advantages:
- Easy to maintain
- Perfect for families with young children or those who have mobility issues
- More affordable than multi-story homes
- More energy efficient than multi-story homes
Disadvantages:
- Less privacy since all rooms are on one level
- Limited space for expanding the home
- Less architectural variety compared to other styles
- Colonial House Plan
The Colonial style house plan is one of the oldest and most traditional styles. It originated in the early 18th century. it features:
- Symmetrical design
- Two or three stories
- Central front door
- Large chimneys
- Decorative shutters
- Dormer windows
Advantages:
- Beautiful, classic look
- Large windows allow natural light
- Multiple levels provide ample space for large families
- Room for customization
Disadvantages:
- High maintenance costs due to the multiple levels
- Higher construction costs than other styles
- Steep roofs can make maintenance challenging
- Contemporary House Plan
The contemporary style house plan is ideal for those who want a modern, minimalist look. It features:
- Clean lines
- Minimalist decor
- Flat or sloping roofs
- Large windows
- Open floor plans
Advantages:
- Energy efficient
- Provides ample natural light
- Sleek and stylish design
- Flexible design allows for customization
Disadvantages:
- Limited privacy due to large windows
- Can be expensive to construct
- Less traditional than other styles, which can affect resale value
- Craftsman House Plan
The Craftsman style house plan first gained popularity in the early 1900s. It features:
- Low-pitched roof
- Large front porch
- Exposed beams
- Woodwork details
- Handcrafted details
- Open floor plans
Advantages:
- Beautiful design with unique features
- Energy-efficient due to open floor plans
- Low-maintenance due to the use of durable materials
- Room for customization
Disadvantages:
- Can be expensive to construct
- Limited architectural variety compared to other styles
- May not appeal to all homebuyers
- Cottage House Plan
The Cottage style house plan is perfect for those who want a cozy, comfortable home. It features:
- Steeply pitched roof
- Cozy interiors
- Exposed rafters
- Small or no dormers
- Use of natural materials
- Intimate spaces
Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Energy-efficient due to small size
- Low maintenance
In conclusion, there are countless house plan styles to choose from, each with its unique features and benefits. The top five most popular styles include Craftsman, Contemporary, Colonial, Ranch and Cottage house plans. No matter which style you choose, a well-designed house plan is essential to creating a home that is both functional and beautiful. With the right house plan, you can turn your dream home into a reality. Nelson Design Group offers over one thousand custom-designed house plans with “Today’s Living” requirements in every style and square footage size imaginable.