House Plan with Southern Charm

What are the primary features of a home with Southern Charm? The covered porch is essential, and the wrap around, two level variety is ideal. Sometimes you will also see the influence of Greek architecture in a columned façade or Victorian style in ornamental details. Reminiscent of a time without air conditioning, abundant windows and doors invite you to throw them open and enjoy the good weather in spring and fall. Wooden siding, tall brick chimneys and metal rooftops grace these stately homes- House Plan 62012 being a perfect example. French doors stretch across the front of the house providing access to a porch which is six feet deep. Back in the old days, you would entertain here, sipping a mint julep or sweet tea. This porch will inspire you to resurrect those old traditions and ditch technology for a little old-fashioned luxury. When observing the neighbors becomes tiresome, move to the back porch which is more spacious at eight feet deep. From here you may enjoy your private garden- after all, Southern Charm is evident in both the residence and the environment.

Old Southern homes had a very simple floor plan. Two identical rooms would flank the front entrance, both intended for formal entertaining, and this design does not deviate far from the traditional. To the left we have a library with build in bookshelves spanning two walls. Windows line another wall, and two sets of French doors bring in plenty of natural light. An antique office desk would suit this room, but we insist that you also include a comfortable chaise for enjoying a good book on a stormy afternoon. From the foyer is a convenient coat room and powder room across from the staircase. Being the largest space on the main floor, the living room boasts three sets of French doors, fireplace, built in media center and more bookshelves. Aside from all the usual necessities, the kitchen offers an oversized L shaped island with sink, pantry and ice maker. The adjacent breakfast room is all the more inviting with a window seat and French door access to the back porch. A short hallway leads to the dining room which measures 19’4” by 11’, affording room for a table worthy of a large family gathering over the holidays.

With a total square footage of 3060, you may expect to find 4 bedrooms in this home, but quantity has been sacrificed for quality in this design. Secondary bedrooms upstairs are sized like the average master bedroom, and each includes a private bath.  Bedroom 2 measures 17’2” by 13’6” and includes a walk in closet and access to the upper porch, and bedroom 3 is just a bit smaller. The master bedroom measures 20’ by 17’8”, and the suite expands with his and hers walk in closets, glass shower, double sinks and whirlpool tub. As you would find in an old Southern home, a fireplace is situated across from the bed. Light a cozy fire in the winter or add a little ambiance with candles instead.

As a bonus, the laundry room (with soaking sink) is located upstairs for convenience to the bedrooms.

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Contributing Author: Bonnie Drew is a blogger and customer support/sales specialist for The COOL House Plans Co. and Family Home Plans. For more information or questions about our plans, you can reach Bonnie at [email protected].