The pros & cons of one story house plans

by Ann Hayward 07/31/2023

Among the myriad factors to consider in building or buying a new home, deciding between multi-story or one-story house plans is one of the first decisions you’ll encounter. Single-story house plans come in plenty of different architectural styles, sizes and floor plans, potentially fitting the needs of many potential homeowners.

However, one-story house plans have disadvantages to consider as well. But, how do you know if a one-story house is right for you?

One-story house plan pros

  • Perfect for open floor plans: If you’re in the market for an airy, open-concept home, single-story designs provide the perfect starting point.
  • Easy to clean and maintain: There are cleaning and maintenance advantages to single-story homes, such as the ability to use robotic vacuum cleaners to cover the entire square footage of the house.
  • Accessibility advantages: Young children, elders and people with mobility hurdles or disabilities benefit from single-story homes because they don’t have to worry about getting up and down flights of stairs.

One-story house plan cons

  • Less separation between shared and private spaces: single-story homes have every room on one level, which means bedrooms are relatively much closer to shared spaces like kitchens, living rooms and entryways.
  • Often built on smaller lots: Homes built on a single-story take up more lot space, and therefore leave less room for outside living areas like backyards, porches and patios.
  • Ground-level disadvantages: In some locations, having your bedroom at ground level can be extremely noisy and uncomfortable. You might not find it ideal having street and foot traffic right outside your window.

Is a single-story house plan right for you? Only you can decide, but considering these key pros and cons will help you make the most informed decision.

About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]