Latest Stories

A simple, economic, and adaptable alternative for a population that had no interest in the ornate Victorian-era designs, the American Foursquare or “Prairie Box,” came into its own in the mid-1890s. Here’s a close look at the Foursquare, its elements, and “borrowed” features from other architectural styles that add to its appeal.

As homeowners integrate garages into their design plans, they face a number of options for the structure – detached? attached? front-entry? rear-entry? side-entry? – that may fit their needs and wants. Here’s a look at the side-entry garage, its advantages, and why it may be right for your next home.

Symmetry is a popular architectural element for a reason. Because of the visual harmony of symmetrical homes, they tend to be one of the most popular and appealing options on the market. However, even if a home isn’t perfectly symmetrical, elemental balance is still essential. Here’s what you need to know.

The cellar that merely stored wine, root vegetables, and other essentials has evolved into the basement – a comfortable, functional, and stylish living space for families. With technological advances and improvements in construction and maintenance, today’s basement provides extra space that families can turn into whatever they want. Here are the pros and cons.

A desire for privacy and freedom is causing many of us to consider becoming more self-sufficient. Homesteading is a way to do this and doesn’t necessarily mean going “off the grid” completely. Here are ways to adapt your home to homesteading – and some ideas on building new.

Covid-19 has more and more homeowners spending days on end at home – working, home schooling, and just trying to stay socially distant. Check out these creative ideas – for the long term and the short term – to turn your new home into an enjoyable spot to shelter in place.

What’s your fancy? An amazing one-story home with a spacious Great Room and all the amenities on one level? Or a fabulous two-story home with the social and work spaces on the main level and living quarters on the upper level? Here are factors to consider when facing that decision.

Taking off in 1840 as “Federal” style faded into the background, the Italianate Style – with its decorative brackets and square towers – became the most popular architectural design in the U.S. until 1885. The style was primarily seen in grand country mansions and urban townhouses around the U.S.

With so many of us working from home, we thought we would take this time to virtually catch up with our expert house designers. Our first one-on-one interview is with Sam Morgan, a certified professional building designer (CPBD/AIBD CGP/NAHB), from SW Morgan Fine Home Design. Sam answers our customers’ most common questions about house plans and home construction. We also learn a bit more about what makes Sam’s home plans so popular.

Designing a loft space can be really tricky, as every square inch needs to have a purpose. To be successful, you need to plan ahead. With the right end goal in mind, you’ll be able to achieve a functional space that’s also very livable. Here’s how to do it.