by LarryG (Designer)
26. March 2009 15:29
A customer recently asked what I’d suggest — a one-story or two-story home plan — for their family with two growing kids. This discussion can easily turn into a great debate! Many homeowners simply don’t like the idea of climbing stairs — either now or, in particular, as they grow older. However, if that’s not a problem for you, a two-story design has some definite benefits. With a master bedroom on the first level, the children (and parents) can enjoy their privacy. Air conditioning can be zoned so that the upstairs system is not used when the children are away (quite important as they grow up and leave for college). Theoretically, a two-story plan is less expensive, per square foot, to build (less roof area and less foundation). However, this depends on the overall design. Architecturally, the exterior of a two-story home offers more opportunity for design details than a single story. Finally, children simply enjoy a two-story design. As for mom and dad — well, climbing those stairs is good exercise!
Example of Two-Story House. Plan DW-2112
Example of One-Story House. Plan APS-1914
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