Eco-friendly microhomes may get a lot of attention, but these plans give families what they really need: versatile, highly livable layouts that can grow to fit future needs.

Let There Be Light

Stylish, sleek, and contemporary, this cool design features large walls of windows for passive daylighting. The main floor holds the vaulted master suite and a full guest suite, along with the huge living and dining area with a cozy fireplace. Two bedrooms on the lower level share the large, flexible game room that could easily become a home theater, gym, or craft room. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Versatile Home Office/Guest Suite

Part of the Energy Saver Plus collection of house plans, this one-story layout includes a study that can easily flex into a fourth bedroom with access to a full bathroom, making it a great guest suite or home office. Two secondary bedrooms share another bathroom on the right side. In the master suite, upscale touches include two large walk-in closets and a generous shower. Families will love the open layout of the kitchen and great room, with the lanai just steps away. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Room for In-Laws

Photo courtesy of Bob Chatham
Photo courtesy of Bob Chatham

The version of the plan built here was NAHB certified as a green home, providing an excellent example of how smart, sustainable choices can make even a luxury house green. The guest suite, separated from the main house by a screened porch, provides welcome privacy for an in-law or guest. Don't miss the master suite's luxurious bath or the extensive sitting room (or playroom, home office, etc.) upstairs. Porches on two levels maximize the cool outdoor living space. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Streamlined and Contemporary

It doesn’t get much simpler – or cooler – than this totally open design. The first floor showcases a substantial kitchen island in the middle, with room for dining and lounging on either side. Upstairs, the master suite features a large shower, two sinks, and a walk-in closet. Two secondary bedrooms share a similar hall bath. Windows, windows, and more windows give ample opportunity for passive lighting. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Room to Expand on Two Levels

Here's a layout that can grow with a family. Both the upper level and the daylight basement can be finished to include extra rooms for sleeping, working, and recreation. On the main floor, a deck fits nicely into the footprint of the home and is accessed from the dining nook. The master suite boasts upscale amenities: two walk-in closets, a sitting room, and a deluxe bathroom with a large shower and two sinks. Two secondary bedrooms share a hall bath. Green features include 24" module planning for efficiency, deep roof overhangs to control sunlight, and basement walls with added insulation. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Craftsman Curb Appeal

Photo by Jason Offutt
Photo by Jason Offutt

A great choice for a narrow lot, this plan also delivers lots of curb appeal. In the center of the home, the totally open living room, dining room, and kitchen create a spacious gathering zone, with room at the kitchen’s island to hang out. Located on this level, the master suite gives owners a spacious bedroom, two sinks, and a walk-in closet. A guest bedroom is easy to reach on this floor, while two more bedrooms occupy the second level. Other highlights of the plan include the mudroom/laundry area on the way in from the garage and attractive Craftsman-inspired details on the exterior. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Separate Suite Above Garage

Photo by Tim Murphy/FotoImagery.com, Courtesy of Scott Rodwin
Photo by Tim Murphy/FotoImagery.com, Courtesy of Scott Rodwin

This home, part of the Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR program, shows an upscale side of green design. The gourmet kitchen is the center of the house, not far from the family room with its three-sided fireplace. The master suite offers a spacious retreat with a sitting area, large walk-in closet, and deluxe bath. Three bedrooms rest upstairs, one with a private bath and balcony. Do you buyers anticipate needing more room in the future? The loft over the garage is ideal for a home office, recreation room, or in-law suite. See more images, information, and the floor plan.