Who can resist a well-designed porch, patio, or deck? These house plans from Visbeen Architects do a good job of incorporating outdoor living into the layouts, with multiple access points to outside, large patios and porches, and (of course) relaxed open layouts. See a whole magazine of Visbeen plans here.
Designed with the modern family in mind, the Winston presents an open layout and seamless indoor-outdoor living. A variety of retractable glass walls open up the living and dining rooms to the back porches. Set three steps down from the living room, the screened porch is enclosed by a retractable screen system that allows the room to be heated during cold nights. A large island anchors the open kitchen, with seating for four and a nearby butler's pantry for storage. Along the staircase, a wine room shows off collectible bottles in a floor-to-ceiling glass display room. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
Outdoor Living on a Sloping Lot
The Ridgecrest gives a family plenty of room to spread out, with a finished walkout basement that includes leisure spaces. The main level holds the open kitchen, the fireplace-warmed living room, the open dining room, and a versatile study. Also on this level, the master suite gives homeowners a large shower, two sinks, and a walk-in closet. For older children or live-in relatives (or perhaps for renting out), a guest apartment can be finished above the garage. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
Relax by the Outdoor Fireplace
The Waterside plan lives up to its name, with a variety of places for gazing out on the lake. But this modern farmhouse would also look great in a suburb, especially since it offers plenty of space for an active family. Highlights include the kitchen's rounded bar table, which connects to the island and provides a fun, casual vibe, and the flexible study. Upstairs, the master suite features a large shower, two sinks, and two closets. Kids and visitors will enjoy the additional bedrooms, one with a connecting bunk room for sleepovers. The lower level can be finished to hold a family room and another bedroom or two for guests. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The Thompson is ready for entertaining. The party's in the kitchen, with a rounded bar table, a built-in booth, and openness to the living room. The master suite accesses a sunroom, which could also serve as an office or hobby space and leads out to a large wraparound porch. The lower level can be finished to hold an exercise space, family room, full bathroom, and more. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
