What matters most today to those home buyers who would choose to cut square footage for the sake of affordability? Not a big office or dining room, according to this illuminating NAHB study. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the kitchen and closet space are treasured more.

Here's a new modern house plan that aligns nicely with those priorities and sports a surprisingly simple footprint measuring 50 feet by 57 feet and with 1,944 square feet all on one floor.

On the exterior, bold contemporary styling creates striking curb appeal. The one-car garage faces the front.

Modern house plan with an open layout, front exterior. See details at Houseplans.
Modern house plan with an open layout, front exterior. See details at Houseplans.

Outdoor living takes center stage in back, with a large porch that opens easily to the main living spaces.

Modern house plan with an open layout, rear exterior. See details at Houseplans.
Modern house plan with an open layout, rear exterior. See details at Houseplans.

Inside, the choice to make each bedroom a suite adds quite a bit of versatility. Live-in relatives, adult children, and frequent guests will appreciate the extra privacy. The primary suite also boasts a walk-in closet.

The kitchen flows into the open living and dining areas. Nearby, a small pocket office provides a place to take occasional meetings from home without eating up too much square footage.

Modern house plan with an open layout, main level. See details at Houseplans.
Modern house plan with an open layout, main level. See details at Houseplans.

See small modern home designs at Houseplans.