Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
You know, maybe its heresy, but what if you deleted the portion of the stair that comes down into the foyer? That would make the stair more private (just for the family) and make a nice big entry hall in which you could have some seating, or display things.
I scanned through the posts and didn't see anyone ask about the lot, latitude, or surrounding terrain. How can one determine where windows and doors should be if we don't know where the sun's path is or what will be seen? Is this house going on 1/2 acre or a 10 acre lot? Are there tall trees or tall buildings to consider? Is this lot flat or on a steep grade? Is there a wonderful or horrible view to consider?
While the OP does eventually discuss lifestyle and habits we don't know interests, values, architectural or material tastes, what architectural details are appreciated or fondly remembered, etc. In absence of knowing a whole host of conscious and subconscious details of the OP how can one presume to know how to design a home instead of just a house?
I scanned through the posts and didn't see anyone ask about the lot, latitude, or surrounding terrain.
Because the "question from the OP was, "My question to CD is what plan do you prefer and why?"
...how can one presume to know how to design a home instead of just a house?
Well, a good intuitive start would be looking at the plans that where submitted- they're pretty much just a house. There's nothing really unique or different that would make them stand out from the ordinary- which is what they are.
Just a few quick changes that I would make. I never put a powder near kitchen or dining. The stairs are an eye sore. I would redesign so stairs to basement are relocated so you could open up the view to the great room from the foyer when you walk in. As is, the stairs are the focal point. Just tried opening up this house. Seemed very claustrophobic.
Another mistake is the omission of a study in the second plan. Easy fix. Change the formal living into the study, close it up with double doors, and add another entry into pwdr bath.
What is a mud room and why would you place it next to the laundry room?
A mudroom is a secondary entrance into a home (could be directly from the exterior or from the garage)- a place to disrobe; coats, shoes, etc., especially if it has been raining or snowing.
Being next to the laundry room (that is if the laundry room is on the 1st flr) is kindda self explanatory- but usually off the kitchen.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
