Don’t underestimate the emotional story you can create with a beautifully planned outdoor living area. Porches like the ones seen here sell a whole lifestyle, one in which the buyer imagines himself throwing the party of the summer or spending time with grandkids in the pool. See more designs with porches.
Photo by Bob Greenspan
This cool contemporary home gives families many flexible rooms and handy amenities. For example, the guest suite on the main level would be perfect for hosting a live-in parent, who can use the adjoining gym as a private sitting room. The den offers a great place for work, homeschooling, or simply relaxing with a book. Entertaining alfresco is a breeze with the outdoor kitchen, which opens to the kitchen for easy transporting of dishes. A pocket office in this zone can hold a phone, tablet, or other gadgets. Upstairs, the luxurious master suite invites owners to relax in the spa tub, the tile shower, or the bedroom with corner windows. A game room with a wet bar and terrace will become a fun hangout for kids. On the exterior, stone-covered columns frame the entry, and the Prairie influence shows in the low-pitched, hipped roof. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
Giovanni Photography
This luxurious, light-filled layout makes outdoor living and entertaining the top priorities. A covered lanai opens to nearly all the main-floor rooms, including the ultra-spacious master suite (don’t miss the innovative bathroom layout, which gives each partner a private sink and toilet while meeting in the middle for the walk-in shower). In the great room, over 16 feet of pocketing glass sliding doors provide a seamless transition outside, where an outdoor kitchen continues the party. Visitors will love the pool cabana suite, complete with a private entrance and a cupola that draws in light and adds interest. Upstairs, two of the three bedroom suites step out to a large covered porch. With an elevator making it easy to get up here, guests and family members (especially elderly ones) can access the whole home. Even the exercise room features a porch, perfect for stepping outside to enjoy fresh breezes after a good workout. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
Photograph Courtesy of Donald A. Gardner Architects, Inc.
With its wraparound porch inviting owners outside to enjoy the day, this charming farmhouse maintains a strong connection with nature. Inside, the great room flows into the kitchen and breakfast nook, with access to the back porch making it easy to step outside. The master suite also offers outdoor access, along with two sinks, a large tub, and a separate shower. Upstairs, three more bedrooms provide space for kids or visitors. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
This stone-covered home adapts to a family’s changing needs. The casita offers a private entrance and a full bath, giving welcome privacy to an in-law or grown child. An outdoor fireplace is a fun amenity. The heart of the home — the kitchen — makes room for casual seating at the island and an office corner great for checking email. Relax in the master suite’s sitting area that looks out to the rear yard. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
