It’s outdoor season again (or nearly), but thoughtful home designs make it a year-round possibility. Architect Wayne Visbeen includes a variety of porches, patios, and sheltered spaces in many of his designs. Here are a few with standout outdoor living spaces, notable for their ease and elegance.
Bay Cottage may look classic and traditional, but the layout inside is perfectly modern. The living room flows into the dining room and kitchen, with a handy den sitting nearby to serve as a home office or homework room (easy to supervise from the kitchen while making dinner). The luxurious master suite sits on this level and opens to the back porch. Upstairs, three more spacious bedrooms (one a suite) hold family or friends. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
The Sunnyside presents a traditional exterior and a contemporary open layout with a fairly compact footprint. A sitting room in the front receives light through a charming bay window. In the kitchen, an island adds casual meal space and prep room, while the nearby dining room opens out to the screened porch for protected outdoor living. All three bedrooms occupy the second level, along with a loft and access to the finish-later bonus room. The lower level can also be finished to hold a craft room, lounge, workshop, and more. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
Building on a sloping lot? The Mackinaw provides a comfortable, versatile design with timeless curb appeal. The main level showcases a very open layout that flows from the parlor to the open kitchen and dining room (check out the big island) and then to the living room. On nice days, step out to the patio. The master suite resides on this level and includes two vanities in its large bathroom. Extra storage in the garage can hold sports equipment. Two or three more bedrooms share the upper level, while the basement can be finished to hold a fifth bedroom and recreational spaces. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
Photo by Chuck Heiney
Winner of the Grand ARDA in the custom category at the 2015 American Residential Design Awards, the Lochley provides an open layout and room to expand on the lower level. The compact 34-foot width makes it suitable for a narrow lot. On the main floor, a network of smart storage and planning spaces keeps households organized. The kitchen’s large island seats four and opens to the living room, where a fireplace creates cozy evenings. A screened outdoor living area lets owners enjoy the view in all kinds of weather. Take the stairs or the optional elevator to the second floor, where the master suite offers a luxurious retreat. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
