Sometimes messing with a good thing results in another good thing. These designs and their new versions demonstrate how tweaking a layout can open up an even wider market.
The original: where the designer lives
Designer Dan Sater created this elegant Prairie home for his family to live in and enjoy. With one story and a huge garage (to store his prized car collection), the layout presents luxury in an easy-to-navigate format. Notable amenities include the large master shower and a flexible dining room that the Saters use as a music space instead. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The new version: slimmed-down sophistication
In response to common customer requests, Sater took the design for his home and slimmed it down to 2,337 square feet (a third version sits at 2,476 square feet). In this floor plan, the secondary bedrooms share a bathroom, rear outdoor living areas have been combined, and the master suite now includes a tub (the most-wanted modification). The garage was also streamlined to hold three bays instead of four. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The original: Low Country luxury
Photo by Wayne C. Moore
This award-winning design from Visbeen Architects displays outstanding integration with the outdoors, from a series of French doors in the great room to a screened porch with a snack bar. A guest apartment can be finished above the garage. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The new version: attached garage
This newer design retains the focus on outdoor living, with a huge screened patio that opens to the master suite and a sunroom. Among other changes, the garage is attached and connects to the ultra-social kitchen via a network of practical storage spaces. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The original: one-story elegance
With many upscale amenities and an easy-to-navigate layout that’s all on one level, this elegant design can transition from a family home now to an empty nest (with room for guests) later. The master suite showcases a bright sitting room. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The new version: add a bedroom
Better suited for a large family, this version of the home features five bedrooms on one level. Each bedroom includes a walk-in closet, and the master suite retains its many amenities. The kitchen has been streamlined a bit, with the cooktop relocated to the island (making it easier to chat with guests while preparing meals). See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The original: modern farmhouse
This sleek style features clean lines and an open layout. Front and rear porches add room for outdoor living, with French doors in the great room. A bonus suite upstairs offers finish-later space for guests. Don’t miss the master suite’s enormous walk-in closet. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
The new version: flipped and streamlined
Trimmed down to 2,077 square feet, this version of the home includes three bedrooms (instead of four) and eliminates the breakfast nook. A cool addition: the mudroom hallway opens directly to the back porch. See more images, information, and the floor plan.
